Instructions and Important Information for Applicants
Eligibility: This program is intended for college/university rising sophomores or juniors within a STEM major, whose career potential will significantly benefit from an extended mentorship and exposure to the cancer research environment. There is no longer a citizenship eligibility criterion to apply. You must be a student at the University of South Florida, Saint Leo University, or Hillsborough Community College to be eligible.
Admission: Accepted interns will be required to undergo a criminal background check and drug screen, which Moffitt will cover the costs of. HR will require the submission of additional forms and documentation.
Additional required documents:
- At least two letters of recommendation. Letters should describe the writer's relationship with the applicant and should either address the applicant's academic performance, their professionalism, or through extra-curricular/community service activities. These letters are very important to the selection committee to make distinctions among the candidates.
- Academic Transcripts. ENCOURAGE accepts unofficial transcripts with your application packet. Official transcripts will only be required of accepted interns before the actual start of the program in June 2026. Electronic copies of transcripts can now be uploaded directly into the application. If electronic copies are not possible, have them mailed to:
ENCOURAGE Program Materials
Attn: Paola Uscanga
13131 USF Magnolia Drive, MRC 4E-RET
Tampa FL, 33612
ENCOURAGE Program
Instructions and Important Information for Applicants
Eligibility: This program is intended for college/university rising sophomores or juniors within a STEM major, whose career potential will significantly benefit from an extended mentorship and exposure to the cancer research environment. There is no longer a citizenship eligibility criterion to apply. You must be a student at the University of South Florida, Saint Leo University, or Hillsborough Community College to be eligible.
Admission: Accepted interns will be required to undergo a criminal background check and drug screen, which Moffitt will cover the costs of. HR will require the submission of additional forms and documentation.
Additional required documents:
- At least two letters of recommendation. Letters should describe the writer's relationship with the applicant and should either address the applicant's academic performance, their professionalism, or through extra-curricular/community service activities. These letters are very important to the selection committee to make distinctions among the candidates.
- Academic Transcripts. ENCOURAGE accepts unofficial transcripts with your application packet. Official transcripts will only be required of accepted interns before the actual start of the program in June 2026. Electronic copies of transcripts can now be uploaded directly into the application. If electronic copies are not possible, have them mailed to:
ENCOURAGE Program Materials
Attn: Paola Uscanga
13131 USF Magnolia Drive, MRC 4E-RET
Tampa FL, 33612