ALUMNI SUPPORT

Presenting research or a publication at technical symposia is an important way to grow as a scholar and scientist, but the cost of travel to these events may be challenging. The AEOP Travel Award helps pay for current and alumni participants in any AEOP program who have STEM-based research/scholarly work that has been accepted for professional presentation at a national event. Participants may apply to present their current research or research that they’ve conducted while participating in AEOP.

• The amount of the award is based on expenses incurred
• Funds cover: Registration fees for conference or creative exhibition, travel fees, lodging, and food
• Funding will be disbursed in advance of travel date
• For minors, travel expenses will be covered for the presenter and one parent/legal guardian
• Applications are accepted and reviewed on a continuing basis year-round, but must be submitted at least six weeks prior to departure date.

Take advantage of this opportunity to interact and network with STEM professionals in your field, explore a variety of disciplines, gain experience communicating your research accomplishments, and serve as an AEOP ambassador! For more information, and to apply, click here.

Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) is a DoD Scholarship-for-Service Program that combines educational and workforce development opportunities for STEM students. SMART offers scholarships for undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students pursuing a STEM degree. Scholarship recipients receive full tuition, annual stipends, internships, and guaranteed employment with the Department of Defense after graduation. Applications are open annually from Aug. 1 to Dec. 1.

The SMART Scholarship builds future leaders in 24 STEM disciplines and is the largest education and workforce development initiative through the DoD STEM. Scholarship recipients receive hands-on experience at one of more than 200 Department of Defense facilities during their internships and apply this knowledge as early career professionals. Department of Defense facilities are at the forefront of innovation in various STEM fields. Benefits include:

• Full tuition: Scholarship recipients receive full tuition to any U.S. accredited college or university
• Annual stipend: SMART scholars earn annual stipends of $30,000-$46,000 depending on degree level
• Internships: Scholars gain invaluable experience during summer internships with DoD leaders
• Career opportunities: Jump-start your career with guaranteed employment after graduation

For more information, and to apply, click here.

The National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Program is a DoD initiative designed to support and cultivate the talents of graduate students in the fields of science and engineering. Established with the aim of advancing national defense capabilities, the program provides financial assistance, research opportunities and mentorship to eligible students pursuing advanced degrees. By fostering a community of scholars dedicated to scientific and engineering excellence, the program contributes to the development of expertise that aligns with the nation’s defense priorities. Benefits include:

• Financial support: Fellows receive full tuition and fees coverage, a stipend, and health insurance to alleviate financial burdens, and allowing them to focus on research and academic pursuits
• Research opportunities: The program provides access to cutting-edge research projects and collaborations within defense-related fields, enabling fellows to contribute to impactful and innovative advancements in science and engineering
• Mentorship: Fellows benefit from mentorship by experienced professionals in science and engineering, and facilitating personal and academic growth, while providing valuable guidance for their research endeavors
• Networking: The program fosters a vibrant community of scholars by facilitating networking opportunities with peers, mentors and experts in the field, and creating a supportive and collaborative environment
• Career development: The fellowship enhances career prospects by preparing them for leadership roles in academia, industry and government, through training and experiences that align with the nation’s defense needs
• Prestigious recognition: Being selected as a NDSEG fellow is a prestigious honor, opening doors to further opportunities, collaborations and recognition within the scientific and engineering communities

For more information, and to apply, click here.

Near Peer Mentors (NPM) are AEOP alumni who work or volunteer to mentor and advise current AEOP participants.  NPMs serve as role models to our apprentices, and act as expert resources on college and career pathways. Get more information on a paid NPM experience with the AEOP GEMs program here. For more information on serving as a NPM for AEOP Internships, contact aeopinternships@rit.edu.

Our AEOP participants benefit tremendously from hearing the real-life experiences of other STEM professionals. Join us on a panel to share your experiences, and answer live questions or present a webinar about your career path and research. For more information, contact aeopinternships@rit.edu.

As part of our mission to encourage future generations in STEM, AEOP sponsors several competitions for elementary through high school students. We always seek judges who can help make these programs possible. Volunteers are STEM enthusiasts, students or professionals who often have a background or interest in STEM or education. Some may also serve in the military or attend school, and are those who value making an impact on the lives of students and need a flexible and compact window of time to volunteer. Anyone 18 and older who is out of high school and has a passion for STEM is a great volunteer for this position. Opportunities are seasonal and the timing is subject to change.  For more information, contact aeopinternships@rit.edu.