The Juneau Icefield Research Program (JIRP) runs an eight-week field program for undergraduates. The applicant you are recommending is applying to be a student. This position is both exceptionally challenging and profoundly rewarding.

If chosen, the applicant will be living and working in the remote backcountry continuously for eight weeks. They will take academic classes and participate in research in an active glacial environment. They will learn a variety of skills related to field research. About half their focus will be on improving their academic understanding of the Earth system. The other half of their focus will be on learning techniques of backcountry travel, risk management, and field data collection.

Academic work will revolve around applying lessons to the Icefield environment. They will deal with the uncertainty of real-world examples. Students will meet faculty from a wide variety of Earth science disciplines. They will work primarily in small groups, in a collaborative atmosphere. Through a low student-to-faculty ratio we strive to meet every student at an appropriate academic level; however, in a group of mixed undergraduates, most students will find themselves periodically over- and/or under-challenged. Making the most of all these situations is central to students' success.

Students will work outside in difficult weather conditions, including rain, snow/sleet, fog, wind, extreme sun exposure, cold, and heat. They will live in close quarters with other students, staffers, and faculty. They will share meals, limited common space, and daily chores with all participants. They will work in a physical environment defined by very real hazards. They will have limited access to social connections off the Icefield.

When evaluating the applicant below, please be honest. A recommendation that includes frank discussions of the applicant’s areas for growth is far more helpful to us than one that is uncritical in its praise. When possible, please evaluate the applicant relative to their peers you have taught, employed, or mentored.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us regarding the applicant’s likelihood to both grow from, and contribute positively to, the JIRP Expedition. The information you share with us will help us build a strong cohort of students. We maintain confidentiality and applicants will not have access to your recommendation.