Participants in the SCEC internship programs come together several times during a summer, in much the same way that SCEC scientists work collaboratively. At each meeting, some interns present their summer projects to date, so that all gain experience with presenting and articulating their work.

During the second week in July, a SCEC intern retreat is held. The group makes short excursions to experience some of southern California’s active – and exciting – geology. SCEC earthquake scientists rendezvous with the group at various excursion stops. Recent trips have included treks along the San Andreas fault and a visit to Catalina Island to consider offshore earthquake faults. In addition, SCEC computer scientists may host visits to their facilities, to introduce the group to a whole other world of SCEC science. Recent trips have included the San Diego Supercomputer Center and the Information Science Institute in Marina del Rey.

Other summer activities for all interns are hosted at SCEC headquarters at the University of Southern California. Recent events have included workshops about personality type in the workplace, communications workshops, intern research symposia, presentations by visiting scientists, career options forums, and informal visits with past interns on Alumni Fridays.

At the conclusion of the summer, students who successfully complete their summer internships are invited to present their research in posters and demos at the SCEC Annual Meeting (Palm Springs, California, September 6 - 10, 2008).