Name: Andrew Smolik
Home Institution: Cornell University
Major: Biology and Society

“Working at CNS this summer has been a great experience! Most undergraduate internships do not allow you to have to have the type of responsibility and fun that is encouraged here at CNS. With CNS being a smaller research institution it allows for close interaction with highly regarded senior researchers and professors while doing so in a laid back atmosphere. I was able to work on projects ranging from research into the biological weapons programs of Iran, Syria, and Libya to reviews of scientific publications regarding avian flu. I was even able to participate in a county-wide table top terrorist exercise relating to chemical weapons. 

While the work is stimulating so are the activities arranged for the interns. This summer CNS hosted the Monterey Nonproliferation Strategy Group which brought together leading thinkers in the area nuclear proliferation. Nuclear proliferation is not my primary focus, listening to all the participants was fascinating. The brown bag lunches that brought diverse lecturers in a wide range of fields added to my intellectual experience. CNS staff also took the time to show us the natural beauty of California. The center arranged for a day trip down the coast to Big Sur and Carmel which has awe-inspiring beauty. CNS is the place to be for a great interning experience in an important field of study. “