Hajim Spotlights
Joyceline Marealle
Class year: 2020
Major: chemical engineering
Where did you intern?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in the Material Science and Engineering Department.
What work did you do as an intern?
My research focused on creating Ultrafast Rechargeable Aluminum Batteries for Electric Vehicles.
How did you obtain this opportunity? What was the application process like?
I found about the MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP) from the Kearns Newsletter.
The application was a long one but definitely worth it! Be ready to write about 4 long essays, 5 short responses and have 3 recommendation letters.
The program selects 40 students from different universities to perform a 9 week long research internship at MIT. It covers travel costs, housing and stipends.
Did you work with anyone to help find and/or pursue this opportunity?
My twin sister has always been my go-to person. She helped me edit my essays and see if they reflect the person I am. I also found the opportunity in the Kearns Newsletter.
What did you gain from this experience?
This experience was both exciting and challenging. I expanded my knowledge in electrochemistry as I investigated new chemistry for the aluminum batteries. I also gained skills in analyzing results from the battery testing system to test for batteries' rate performance and stability. This experience has solidified my interest in pursuing graduate school to tackle the world's energy related challenges.
Any particularly memorable experiences?
We went boat cruising, sailing, and kayaking on the Charles River. I also got to visit the beautiful beaches of Martha's Vineyard Island.
Any advice for other students who are interested in pursuing an internship?
You only need one acceptance so do not be dismayed after getting so many rejections. MIT was the only place that accepted me. I had received many L's from companies but in the end, it did not matter! Never say no to yourself. Just TAKE A CHANCE AND APPLY to an opportunity and then let the 'Big guys' make the decisions.
Questions? Email Joyceline!
Joyceline presenting work done during her internship in the Material Science and Engineering Department at MIT.