“…The Geo-Launchpad Internship Program was a pre-REU designed to help students become research-ready. Engaging students in research experiences early in their academic career is a key but challenging aspect of guiding talented students into science (Graham et al, 2013;Griffard & Golkowska, 2013;Linn et al, 2015;Lopatto, 2010;Seymour et al, 2004). Studies show work-focused internships for college students increase their likelihood of pursuing a major in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), substantially improve employment prospects, provide students with exposure to the real-life relevance of STEM, and positively influences both attitude toward and persistence in STEM (NASEM et al, 2019(NASEM et al, , 2018.…”