It's time to start planning for your summer research experience in Nebraska!
Congratulations and welcome to the 2024 Nebraska Summer Research Program (SRP)!
First things first: paperwork! Your department and our office are busy preparing for your arrival on campus and we need to collect some information from you to finalize arrangements (and for you to get paid!) Your prompt attention is appreciated. Please be sure to submit all forms as soon as possible.
The Student Information Form is submitted electronically but the other forms need to be downloaded, printed, completed, and mailed directly to our office. This is because certain forms require original signatures, and the W-9 includes your Social Security Number. All forms must be completed and received by April 30.
After we receive your paperwork, you'll receive an email from SAP Ariba system asking you to register as a supplier with the University of Nebraska. This is to get you set up for direct deposit payments, which is how your stipend will be disbursed and how you'll receive your reimbursements/meal per diem.
Let us know if you have any questions by contacting Casey Coleman at ccoleman2@unl.edu or 402-472-0073.
One online form
Student Information Form: You'll find this form in on your scholar login page. This webform saves data only upon completion, so before you begin, collect all of the information requested (e.g., emergency contact information). You'll also complete sections about travel, allergies, and housing preferences.
- If you need to change any information after you submit the form, send an email to ccoleman2@unl.edu so we can make the updates. It is not necessary to complete the form again.
- For those who will be flying, travel arrangements will be made on your behalf. We will reserve one round-trip ticket. An itinerary will be emailed to you in early May. Do not book your own airfare, as we cannot reimburse you.
- Unless previously noted by your program, those who will be driving will be reimbursed mileage at the federal reimbursement rate ($0.34 per mile). Mileage reimbursement over $500 will need to be approved by your program. Fuel/gas expenses are not reimbursable.
- If you need to go home during the Summer Research Program for a family emergency, we may be able provide transportation to the airport, but we will not be able to cover other airfare or mileage costs.
Paper forms
Office of Graduate Studies
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
101 Seaton Hall
Lincoln NE 68588-0619
- Acceptance Agreement: This is your official agreement to participate in the Nebraska Summer Research Program. Review the expectations carefully, sign, and return.
- SRP Agreement: Required of all programs
- Some REUs have their own acceptance agreements. However, you'll still need to submit the official SRP Agreement.
- W-9: This form is for getting you in our system for stipend payments. Your Social Security Number will be kept confidential and secure. (W-9 example)
- Note: You will receive an email from Valerie Glaser with the University of Nebraska Payment Services within the next few weeks directing you to submit information to the Ariba system for the stipend payments. This will include banking information so that payments can be deposited directly (via ACH) into your account. You'll need to make an account and use this guide to complete the form.
- Note: Some or all of the support you receive, which includes stipend payments and the value of room/board, food, and travel, are considered taxable income. 1099 tax forms will be sent out in February.
- Release of Claims: This form is regarding liability. Please read each clause thoroughly, sign and date.
- You should maintain health insurance during the Summer Research Program. Your access to the University Health Center is not intended to replace health insurance.
- Consent to Treat: If you are under 19 years old, you need to complete the consent to treat form. Your parent need to sign in the presence of a Notary Public. Note: If you're younger than 18, contact Casey at ccoleman2@unl.edu, as this form does not apply.
COVID-19 Protocol
While we don't currently have any COVID-19 protocols in place, all Summer Research Program participants will be expected to follow COVID-19 procedures should they arise, as directed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, in consultation with the University Health Center, university leadership, and local public health officials. This may include mask requirements, physical distancing, and COVID-19 testing. We will communicate expectations prior to arrival.
Residence Halls
Housing is provided for all Summer Research Program (SRP) participants in the University Suites. You'll be sharing a suite-style double bedroom with three other SRP scholars (room assignments will be posted at a later time). In the double room you and your roommate share, you will have a desk, chair, closet, an extra-long twin bed & sheets (mattress size 36" x 80"), pillow, and a high-speed internet connection. Bed sheets and a pillow will be provided but you will need to bring a blanket and towels or purchase once you arrive.
Each suite also includes a full-size refrigerator/freezer, sink, as well as a microwave. Stoves are not provided.
Laundry facilities are on-site and are currently free to use. You'll need to provide your own laundry detergent.
Roommates
We match roommates based on the information provided in the Scholar Information Form. More information on room assignments will be posted in May once we have all of our scholars selected and paperwork has been received. Once you find out your roommate assignment, feel free to connect with your roommates. You may even want to talk about sharing items in order to conserve space in your luggage and room.
Recreation/workout
You will also have access to the Campus Rec Center, where you can work out using weights or cardio machines. You can use the indoor track, lap or free swim, or play a variety of sports indoors including basketball, badminton, and soccer. In addition, you will find outdoor space for tennis, sand volleyball, basketball, football, and more. Sports equipment can be checked out from the Rec using your NCard, which you will receive upon arrival.
Meals
Your meal plan will include three meals per day from the Cather Dining Center, which is right next to the University Suites. University Dining Services offers several hot options at each meal. Cold options include a full cereal bar, including yogurt and granola for breakfast, and a large salad bar for lunch and dinner. The dining hall is accommodating to different food preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free. Let us know in your scholar form or via email if you have significant nutritional needs, as we'd be happy to connect you with the Assistant Director of Dining Services. Note: your meal plan does not work on a swipe or dining dollars system. Additionally, your meal plan does not cover meals at any of the convenience stores, markets, or Husker Heroes.
The city of Lincoln
Being in Lincoln offers you the opportunity to enjoy the ethnic diversity of a resettlement community, including the restaurants, cultural centers, and ethnic grocery stores and markets.
There is also a fantastic paved bike trail system that you can use to navigate the city if you live close enough to bring your bike. If you aren't able to bring a bike, you may want to rent one from the Rec Center. The cost of renting a bike for the summer is about $75.00 plus tax. Find more information about renting a bike from the Rec Center's Outdoor Adventures Gear and Bike Rental.
You can also purchase one locally through Craigslist or from a thrift store! You can use the bike paths to walk, run, or skate as well.
Spending the summer in Lincoln gives you access to several fun opportunities; and at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, you will have all this in conjunction with being at a major research institution.
Health Center
The University Health Center is located on 19th Street (just east of the University Suites where you'll live). You will want to maintain your own insurance, but you will also have access to the facilities here. You can use the Health Center to fill prescriptions, purchase over the counter meds, or to see a doctor if you get sick. You can also visit with a mental health professional, which is covered in your summer benefits.
Travel
Airfare to and from Lincoln will be booked by Graduate Studies. We will be emailing information about flights and travel itineraris in May. Please do not book your own flights as you will not be reimbursed for anything you book on your own. Baggage fees are included in your benefits and will be reimbursed. You'll also receive a per diem of around $13 for a travel meal (dinner is provided after check-in). Be sure to save your paper or e-receipts for documentation.
Alcohol and tobacco policies
As a reminder, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a dry campus, which means there is no alcohol or alcohol paraphernalia is permitted on campus. This is the policy for everyone, even if you are of legal age. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is also a smoke-free and vape-free campus, including all residence halls. In fact, the state of Nebraska enacted a smoking ban in 2009, and therefore smoking is not permitted in most public establishments. Find out more about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's drug/alcohol policy or tobacco policy.
Nebraska summers are generally hot and humid, so be sure to pack items that are light and breathable.
Most buildings on UNL's campus are well air-conditioned. If you're sensitive to temperature, you may want to pack a light jacket or sweater. Nebraska may also have different trees/plants than you are used to, so if you have any type of allergies, plan to bring allergy medication
Since you'll be living here for the summer, you may want to consider purchasing some things when you get here rather than packing and traveling with things like full-sized shampoo bottles. You will have the opportunity to do a Walmart run within your first few days in town! Whether you pack them or buy them, you'll want to think about your needs and wants as you review the items on our suggested packing list. Feel free to use this as you prepare for your summer. Many of the items listed are not necessities; we've simply included a variety of things for you to consider. This will also help you save space.
Please consider bringing your laptop, if you have one. The workbook that we use for workshops and most of the current information will be kept in Canvas.
But don't forget your Photo ID and a copy of your health insurance card.
Computer Access
You will have access to the computers and lab in the City Campus Union during their open hours, as well as the computers in the Adele Coryell Hall Learning Commons in Love Library. However, many previous summer scholars have chosen to bring their laptop to campus. If you're planning on bringing a computer, here's information about internet access.
University Suites and most of the other buildings on campus have wireless Internet. You don't need to bring a router, hub, or other hardware to access the wireless network as we will take care of establishing your connection. We will provide information about connecting when you arrive.
If you prefer a wired connection or your computer doesn't have wireless connectivity, bring an Ethernet cable to set up your network connection once you arrive.
Also take some time to read over UNL's computer use policies. Two of the most important things to note are:
- All computers registered on the UNL network are required to have antivirus software installed. Many free programs are available online if your computer doesn't already have one. You can even download anti-virus software from UNL.
- Use of the network for any illegal or unlawful purpose (including illegal downloading and file sharing) or violating any software license or copyright without explicit written communication from the software holder is prohibited.
Packing for Special Events and Opportunities
- Outdoor Adventures: You'll have the opportunity to attend some evening and/or weekend outdoors events. Even if you don't plan to go, you may want to pack for it in case you change your mind. You'll want to have some good hiking clothes and shoes, swim attire, and sunscreen.
- Research Symposium: This event will help you fine tune your presentation and professional skills. Be sure to pack a business casual outfit. Your REU may host other events that will require professional attire.
- Banquet: The end-of-summer banquet will provide a chance to hear from your PIs, SRP staff, and celebrate your accomplishments. Professional pictures will be taken, so business casual attire is appropriate.
- Research: If you're working in a lab, remember to bring lab appropriate attire, such as full-length pants and closed-toe shoes. Your program will provide more detailed information.
- Working Out: If you intend to utilize the Campus Recreation Center or outdoor sports courts and facilities, be sure to pack your swim attire and workout gear.
You'll receive more information about these events and others during the program Orientation.
We look forward to your arrival on campus!
Travel day is just around the corner - Sunday, June 2nd.
Check-in at the University Suites begins at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday. That evening, plan to attend the Welcome Pizza Party dinner beginning at 6:00 p.m. (If your flight doesn't arrive until after that, your dinner will be waiting for you at the front desk.) Your meal plan in the residence hall begins Wednesday morning for breakfast.
Before you leave home, check to make sure you have your government-issued photo ID and a copy of your health insurance card.
We'll send out specific travel arrangements as they come in (within the next two weeks). We'll also provide specific contact information in case you experience any travel issues. Text us if anything comes up; we will not be checking email as regularly often over the weekend. We look forward to your arrival!
Keep reading for more information about your travels by plane or by car.
Arriving by car
Drivers, you may time your arrival to Lincoln anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 2nd.
The address of the University Suites is 1780 R St, Lincoln NE 68508.
When you arrive at the University Suites, you can park in front of the building to check in and unload your belongings. When you check in you'll be greeted by residence hall and SRP staff, who will provide you with your room keys. They'll also provide a parking permit and parking lot directions if you indicated you needed a parking permit on your Student Information Form. We'll collect your receipts at that time, and have you sign your reimbursement form.
Once you have checked in, you may return to your vehicle and bring in your luggage through the front door. Carts will be available for unloading luggage.
Mileage and Reimbursement
Don't worry about keeping track of your mileage; we'll calculate your reimbursement based on the Student Information Form you submitted. You'll receive reimbursement for the mileage driven on May 31st approximately 3-4 weeks after your date of travel. The check will be direct deposited into your account. You'll also receive a small per diem for your travel meals. If you eat any meals during traveling, please save your receipts. Receipts must be itemized showing the date and every item purchased.
Directions to University Suites
Be aware that there are several one-way streets around campus — double check before making a turn when first learning the roads around campus! Finally, we've provided directions to the University Suites. You can call them at 402-472-7179 if you need any further directions.
Arriving by plane
You will begin getting your flight details by e-mail within the next two weeks. Please double check that the departure and return airports/cities are correct and email ASAP if changes need to be made. If you misplace or do not receive them by 5/15/2022, e-mail ccoleman2@unl.edu. Also, feel free to monitor your flight information on your airline carrier's website and check in ahead of time! You can download your airline's app and save your boarding pass to your phone, print your boarding pass at home, or print your pass at the airport.
We suggest arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes prior to your scheduled flight departure, as flight times seem to be unreliable. If you have not flown before or are a novice flyer, consider adding an extra 30-45 minutes to this time. You must have a U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID to board the plane. Acceptable identifications and much more is available on the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) website. You'll also need to have cash or a credit/debit card on hand to pay for your checked luggage and any other incidental costs while traveling.
Checked Luggage
We will reimburse you for the cost of 2 underweight (less than 50 lbs) checked bags. Be aware that airlines have strict policies on the size and weight of your checked luggage. To avoid excess charges, weigh your luggage at home and plan to check 1-2 bags. If your bag is overweight, the fees can range from $50 to $150 and you may not be reimbursed for the extra fees. You'll receive reimbursement approximately 3-4 weeks after your date of travel. Be sure to keep your receipt in order to receive your reimbursement. If you don't automatically receive one, don't hesitate to ask the travel agent when checking in for this receipt. Bring this receipt to check-in or forward to Casey at ccoleman2@unl.edu.
Be sure to attach a luggage tag with your contact information to each piece of your luggage for easy identification. All bags are screened by airport security, so it's best to not lock them unless you have a TSA accepted and recognized lock.
Tips for packing checked luggage
- Avoid over-packing your bag. Allow TSA to easily reseal your bag if it's opened for inspection.
- Pack shoes, boots, sneakers, and other footwear on top of other contents in your luggage.
- Don't pack laptops, medications, or other valuables in your checked luggage. Instead, keep them in your carry-on.
- Remember to pack all sharp items, such as nail clippers, razors, or scissors in your checked luggage, not in your carry-on.
- Refer to the packing list for items you'll need this summer.
Carry-On Luggage
You're typically allowed 1 carry-on bag (a smaller piece of luggage that can fit under your seat or in the overhead compartment) and 1 personal item, such as a laptop computer, purse, small backpack, briefcase, or camera case. Airlines also have strict rules on the size of carry-on luggage: be sure to confirm your carry-on luggage meets these criteria to avoid having to check an additional piece of luggage (and pay additional fees).
IMPORTANT: Review the 3-1-1 policy. All liquids, gels, pastes, etc. (e.g., shampoo, lotion, and toothpaste) must be in 3.4 oz containers or less and inside a clear 1 qt or smaller zip-top bag. Each traveler is allowed 1 zip-top bag per person. For instance, a 20 oz bottle of hairspray with only 3 oz remaining is not allowed. You'll need to keep this zip-top bag handy when going through security and place it in a bin by itself. In general, it's best to pack liquids in your checked luggage and wait to get a bottle of water or a soft drink after you've cleared security.
Shipping Items
You may also ship items ahead of time to the residence hall. Clearly mark the package with your full name, Summer Research Program, and "Hold for Arrival June 2". Then ship to University Suites, 1780 R Street, Lincoln NE 68508-6106. You will not be reimbursed for any shipping costs.
Day-of Logistics
When you arrive at the airport, go to your airline's check-in counter or to the check-in kiosky, where you'll receive a boarding pass (unless you've checked in online), luggage claim tickets, and receipt for any checked luggage. The ticket agent will take your checked luggage and you'll pick it up at baggage claim at your destination.
Proceed to the security checkpoint with your boarding pass and photo ID. Your carry-on bags will be screened, and you'll have to remove your hat, shoes and jackets, sweaters or any other bulky outerwear. You'll also need to remove your zip-top bag of liquids and laptop and place them in individual bins to go through security separately. Read tips on how to get through security simply and quickly. Then proceed to your boarding gate and board your plane.
Delays and missed flights
Don't worry about contacting us if your flight is delayed unless it means you will miss a connection; we'll be checking your flight statuses. However, if you miss a connecting flight, text us. DO NOT EMAIL US.
You will be responsible for working with the airline to rebook a flight if one is missed. We cannot do this for you since the ticket has now been issued in your name. Go to the counter at the terminal to get this sorted out and then notify us of the arrangements.
When you arrive in Nebraska, SRP staff will be at the baggage claim areas to greet you and provide transportation to campus. Look for us in "Nebraska Summer Research Program" T-shirts! You will also have our cell phone numbers in case you can't find us.