San Francisco J-Term Trek for Engineering Students

The Center for Engineering Career Development and the Center for Diversity in Engineering announce the first annual San Francisco Bay Area Trek for Engineering Students!  In this inaugural year, we are collaborating with the Data Science Institute (DSI) to host students in Silicon Valley January 8-10.*  This informational trip is intended to expose students to a variety of opportunities within Engineering and Technology, and students from all engineering majors are welcome to apply.

*travel dates are likely January 7-10 or 11, 2018

 Benefits

• Visit a range of Silicon Valley companies to learn about different functions and professional roles
  
• Hear directly from employers and employees, including UVA alumni at each visit
  
• Get a first-hand view of typical work settings and company culture
  
• Have the opportunity to network with employers and alumni for internships and jobs
  

What companies will we visit?

The trip will include visits with over a dozen tech companies including: Intuit, KPCB, and many others.  Additional companies will be announced as they are confirmed.  There will also be a networking reception with UVA alumni in Silicon Valley one evening of the trip, where students will have the chance to network beyond the companies that we visit.

 Expectations during the trip

Participants must demonstrate a genuine and serious interest in exploring careers in Engineering and Technology in Silicon Valley and:

•  Participate actively and ask thoughtful questions
  
•  Arrive on time to each visit
  
•  Attend every scheduled employer visit and event
  
• Attend mandatory pre-trip meeting, November 8, 2017, from 12-1pm*
  

*excused absences from the pre-trip meeting are permissible.  Please email Julia.Lapan@virginia.edu to set up time to meet 1:1 about the trip. Students who are accepted will be informed on Nov. 7 about the location for the Nov. 8 pre-trip meeting.

 Travel & Lodging Arrangements

Most students will make their own travel arrangements to the Bay Area (San Jose and San Francisco are the major airports.) The University assumes no liability for your travel and stay in the Silicon Valley area. However, you are encouraged to pair up and find hotel rooms, or stay with friends/family in the city. Selected applicants will receive additional information regarding logistical details including lodging options at a later date.

 The Center for Engineering Career Development has set up a fund that will help cover partial or full travel costs.  Please do not let cost be a factor in whether or not you apply!  Also, for students who have never traveled out west, we can help you set up the travel arrangements.  Please speak with Julia Lapan for assistance.

 Application Process

Students from the School of Engineering & Applied Science are eligible to apply and a maximum of 10 students will be selected to participate. Apply by midnight on Monday, November 6th. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

 3 STEPS TO APPLY:

• Write a letter of interest (2-3 paragraphs) that describe how your participation on this trip aligns with your personal goals, academic achievement and professional aspirations. (500 words or less)
  
• Apply to this posting with your Resume and Letter of Interest in Handshake
  
• Complete this form (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G7R56RS)
  

 Please note that this trip is likely to generate considerable interest and we must limit the number of participants we accept due to space limitations at the host companies. We anticipate informing students of their acceptance by 5pm on Tuesday, November 7.

Our team is excited to provide this incredible opportunity and look forward to reviewing your applications! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email julia.lapan@virginia.edu