Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where exactly will students be placed and in what kinds of activities will they be involved?

A: Each position and thus each student experience is different, including schedule, type of research, and other opportunities such as observation in clinical units. In general, positions involve about 50% work on a project(s) and 50% on other activities, which may include observations, attending meetings, program activities, etc.  

Q: Will I get to do a lot of shadowing in places like the ER, labor and delivery, or trauma?

A: You may. Keep in mind that this is a research-oriented program and not intended as career discovery. You should not expect any shadowing during the program, although mentors often try to accommodate the interests of their students. 

Q: Are the same positions offered each session? How will I know what positions will be offered?

A: Positions change with each session, based on the availability of mentors and suitable projects during that session.

Q: What schedule do students follow?

A: Each summer, selected students participate approximately 30 hours per week for 8 weeks, generally beginning in June. In general, students should expect to participate within the time frame of Monday-Friday, 8am to 5pm, although this will depend on the specific position. Some scheduling specifics are listed on the position descriptions posted online. In most departments, the schedule is flexible and is decided between the student and the mentor.

Q: Is there a cost associated with the program?

A: There is no direct fee to participate in the program.

Q: Are housing, meals, gas, vaccinations, TB testing, etc. included in the program?

A: Students may be provided stipends of $2,000 to help offset the cost of their participation in the program.

Q: Is housing provided?

A: No. In the past, during the summer session only, there has been limited housing available for a small fee for female students only at Cedar Crest College. Please call Cedar Crest College directly to inquire.

Q: Who is eligible for the program?

A: Students must be enrolled in an undergraduate program and may not have graduated by the session for which they apply.

Q: Is selection/participation guaranteed for all applicants?

A: The program is competitive; not all students who apply will be selected to participate.

Q: Who should I ask to write my letter of recommendation? Is there a form they need to fill out?

A: The letter of recommendation should come from an academic advisor or a professor who knows you well. Depending on the positions for which you apply, you may prefer to have an individual from a particular department write your letter (ie. a biology professor for a position targeting biology majors); in general it is recommended that whoever writes your letter can attest to your academic, research, professional, and personal qualities that lend themselves to the program and the positions in which you are interested.

Q: What are the key dates for the program, including upcoming sessions and application deadlines?

A: For schedule updates, please visit www.lvhn.org/research-scholar-program.

For further information, please contact:

Diane Leuthardt.

Lehigh Valley Health Network, Department of Education

1247 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Suite 202, Allentown, PA 18103

Diane.Leuthardt@lvhn.org