Frequently Asked Questions

If I both major in a science field and participate in the ISP, will my schedule be too concentrated in the sciences?

 No. While the ISP requires you to take several courses in science and mathematics, most of these courses are already required or recommended for the various science majors. Thus, the total number of additional courses you take in the sciences is not greatly increased. In fact, the ISP seminar replaces the first-year seminar taken by all first-year students, and the sophomore year science and society course  counts towards college-wide distribution requirements. The only “additional” course in ISP, then, is the semester of research, but for most students, this is the most important career-building opportunity of the program!

 Is the ISP a major?

 No. The program complements the curriculum in any science major and provides students interested in other majors a broad appreciation of science. Successful completion of the ISP will be noted on students’ transcripts.

 May I study for a semester or a year abroad and still participate in the ISP?

 Yes. Foreign study is usually done during the junior year, and many ISP students study abroad. This is one reason why the ISP is designed to be completed in the sophomore year.

 How do I know what to do research on? The idea of doing research seems exciting but also a bit daunting.

 First of all, you should understand that the goal of the first research experience is to learn what is involved in doing research. Students are guided in this learning process by their faculty supervisor, working closely with them, and often by an experienced student. 

One common misperception about undergraduate research is the assumption that students must devise their own project. This is certainly not true for first-year college students. In fact, most graduate students do not do this. The actual process you will follow is to select projects that interest you after touring all the laboratories and meeting all the faculty that are available to take ISP students in a given year. After speaking with a couple individual faculty members, you will then make your selection. The procedures and methods involved in conducting the project are explained carefully and taught to you by your faculty and student mentors. Your level of participation in the research grows as you master the various aspects of the project.

 Will the ISP isolate me from other students?

 Not at all. You will take only one ISP course each term. All of the remaining courses you take are regular courses open to all students. Although all ISP students live in the dormitory together, there are 5-6 other seminars in the same dormitory, so you will have a chance to meet students from all disciplines.

 Am I required to take a First-Year Seminar in addition to the ISP seminar?

 No. The ISP seminar, ISP 117, serves as a First-Year Seminar for those ISP students enrolled in it. Like other first-year seminars, we do intensive writing and revision, learn to use the resources of the Trinity library and participate in social events together. It’s the best of all worlds.

What if I take the ISP seminar and then decide I don’t want to complete the program?

 Students are not required to complete the program. Courses taken count for College credit regardless of whether they finish the program. If ISP is completed, a notation in the student’s transcript is made.

 Do ISP students have time for other interests?

 Yes! ISP students are well-rounded; many ISP students are leaders in campus organizations and about half participate in varsity athletics. In their sophomore through senior years, it is not unusual to find an ISP student serving as a teaching assistant or a Supplemental Instruction leader in the introductory science courses or as a Resident Assistant in the dormitories.

 Will it be possible to balance ISP research with varsity sports participation?

 Absolutely. The hours during which you do research are very flexible, and it is possible to construct a manageable schedule.

 Do I have to stay for the summer?

 No, but many students are surprised to find that it is an attractive option. Summer is an ideal time to continue work on your research without other time pressures. The summer program is 10 weeks long, and students are free to arrange a schedule, in consultation with their faculty mentor, that suits them best. Many students have found that starting their research immediately after final exams allows them to fit the 10 weeks in by the middle of July, still giving them about 6 weeks at home before the start of their sophomore year.

What do current ISP students like best about the program?

ISP students report that the friendships they form with other ISP students is among the best things about the program. Students begin with common interests, and each year fast friendships form. Another feature that students point out is that ISP prepares them well for the academic challenges they encounter in the rest of their college career.