Commonly Asked Questions
Volkswagen Distinguished Scholars Program
Internships at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Volkswagen Chattanooga Operations
What is the Volkswagen Distinguished Scholars Program?
This two-summer program will give students the opportunity to participate in cutting edge research in fields important to Volkswagen. The first summer will be spent at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, TN. The second summer will be spent at the new Volkswagen production facility in Chattanooga, TN.
When can students apply?
Applications will be available Oct. 1, 2010.
How are students selected?
Participants are selected based on application materials. Decisions will be based on major discipline, academic excellence, motivation, and enthusiasm for automotive related science and technology.
Can students choose the type of work and location?
Scientific mentors will select projects for each student based on their interest and degree field. Students will be located at Oak Ridge National Laboratory during the first summer of the internship.
What majors are included?
Although no specific majors are specified, the field must be related to automotive science and technology.
What is the stipend amount?
Undergraduate students receive a stipend of $550/week. Graduate students receive a stipend of $650/week. Students whose address is more than 60 miles from internship site will also receive a housing allowance of $125 per week.
How long is the internship?
Summer internships are 10 weeks in length and begin the first Monday of June.
What if I plan to graduate after the first summer, can I still apply?
Yes, Interns in the second year of the program may or may not receive an internship at VW in Chattanooga. Current participants will be notified at the end of their first summer regarding the following summers opportunities.
How many internships will be offered?
Although the number varies each year, we anticipate hosting 10 internships per summer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The number of second summer internships will be based on mutual agreement between VW and the student.
Do graduating interns have an advantage when interviewing for VW employment?
Although the program will not have a service requirement and will not offer employment to the student at the completion of the internship, it is intended to ensure that participants are fully informed about the exciting possibilities of automotive careers and the benefits of employment with VW.
What housing options are available for students?
Summer interns will be housed in apartment style housing with other VW interns. All interns whose permanent address is more than 60 miles from the internship will receive a housing allowance. Interns may choose to reside elsewhere during the internship.
How to Apply
Download and submit application form along with:
- Resume - Statement of Career Goals
- Statement of Research Interests
- Two Academic References
- Official Transcripts
Contact Us!
Marisa Moazen
Science Education Programs
Oak Ridge Associated Universities
P.O. Box 117, MS-36
Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831-0117
work: (865) 241-6958
fax: (865) 576-1609
Email: marisa.moazen@orau.org
