MIT Undergraduate Pratice Opportunities Program

Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program

Students gathered at a UPOP event

Prospective Students

Why join UPOP in your sophomore year?

We’ll help you kick-start your career! You’ll hone the skills you need to be successful during your search for internships, UROPs, or public service; your interview process; and when you’re out in your chosen field. This includes helping you develop an amazing resume and cover letter, ace interviews, effectively communicate with employers, build a network, develop relationships with mentors from all sections of industry, find job postings and employers specifically interested in UPOP sophomores; exceed expectations, and stand out in your summer experience.

What will I learn if I participate in UPOP?

By the end of UPOP, students will be able to:

  • Craft personalized resumes and compelling cover letters and understand how to update them for their intended use.
  • Effectively interview for a desired position and present their best self.
  • Navigate networking events and deliver a polished elevator pitch.
  • Execute a targeted summer experience search, maximizing chances for success for getting an internship, UROP, or public service experience.
  • Communicate effectively in teams and with individuals at all levels of an organization.
  • Lead a structured process for group project planning in a time- and resource-constrained environment.
  • Articulate the value of teamwork and its impact on problem-solving as a group.
  • Contribute effectively to future employers.
Will the UPOP program be helpful for me as an international student?

Yes! In addition to all the professional development knowledge, resources and events you’ll have access to, the UPOP program is a great introduction to the United States job market. Each country has their own norms and practices that employers and successful applicants tend to follow. Through the UPOP program, you will gain a better understanding of how to successfully search for, apply to and be hired for a summer experience in the United States.

How do I apply?
  • The UPOP application is currently closed.  We will open the 2026 application in the spring.
  • Sign up for the First Year Mailing List to be notified about upcoming information sessions and information regarding the 2026 application.
The UPOP year

The UPOP year requires attendance at:

  • One one-hour orientation session in September.
  • Seven one-hour Milestone workshops spread across the fall and spring semesters. In the fall, Milestone workshops focus on career basics to prepare for getting a summer experience (internship, UROP, or public service opportunity). And in the spring, we focus more on preparing students for navigating and thriving in the workplace. Milestone formats include short lectures, experiential activities, guest lecturers, and employer panels.
  • One multi-day Team Training Workshop (TTW). Students have a choice of one of three sessions over MIT’s Independent Activities Period (IAP) or Presidents’ Day weekend.
  • To fully understand the UPOP year, download this useful timeline.

Timeline of the UPOP year

See why students like you join UPOP!

Still have questions?

Please contact us! We look forward to hearing from you and helping you discover the benefits of UPOP!

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