Discussing Venues and Crafting Novel Locales: An Interview with Nal Xaviera of the Class of '25
Princeton University's International Internship Program (IIP) is a valuable opportunity for students to gain hands-on research experience, connecting them with Princeton faculty on STEM projects. While the specific application process for the IIP is not directly listed, it generally aligns with the application practices for the Princeton Laboratory Learning Program (LLP), which requires a complete and accurate application, strong personalized letters of recommendation, and early submission due to limited slots filled on a rolling basis [1].
For applicants, it's important to connect their application to Princeton’s research strengths and highlight any STEM experiences beyond school, such as online courses, olympiads, summer programs, or research initiatives, to demonstrate dedication and self-drive. Obtaining vivid and personalized recommendation letters from mentors who know you well is also crucial [1].
Carefully reviewing your application for completeness and accuracy, including contact details, is essential. Applying early is also recommended to ensure availability and sufficient time to gather application materials like recommendations [1].
Nal Xaviera '25, a sophomore majoring in Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) at Princeton, shared her experience with the IIP. Her internship focused on developing concepts and models for a shopping mall district. The IIP program offers summer internship opportunities in over fifty countries, working in fields such as technology, public health, and education [2].
During her IIP internship in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Nal worked with a team of interns. The physical models created by Nal were made using cut-out sheets of paper and plexiglass, and she also used computer-aided design (CAD) software for model building [3].
Nal's IIP experience influenced her career interests, leading her to consider pursuing an architecture certificate. Interestingly, she had less formal architecture training before her IIP internship [3].
Nal had a supportive network during her IIP experience, including her team and ABROADER, a third-party organization that organized activities during her free time, such as cooking weekends and volunteering at a local middle school [3].
When applying for the IIP program, Nal recommends having a cover letter reviewed by a Career Center advisor [4]. She participated in the IIP during the summer after her freshman year and travelled extensively during her experience, visiting various locations in Vietnam [2].
Nal is available for contact at [email protected] for students interested in learning more about IIP programs or her experience [4].
References:
[1] Princeton University. (n.d.). International Internship Program (IIP). Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.princeton.edu/~oip/iip/
[2] Princeton University. (n.d.). International Internship Program (IIP): Destinations. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.princeton.edu/~oip/iip/destinations/
[3] Nal Xaviera '25. (n.d.). Interview with Nal Xaviera '25. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.princeton.edu/~oip/iip/alumni/nal-xaviera-25/
[4] Princeton University. (n.d.). Contact Us. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.princeton.edu/~oip/iip/contact/
Applicants could emphasize their interest in online courses, initiatives, or STEM-related activities outside school to correlate with Princeton's research strengths, demonstrating their dedication to education-and-self-development. Additionally, obtaining personalized recommendation letters from knowledgeable mentors is advised for a stronger IIP application.
