FAQs

What does PRIMO stand for?: PRIMO stands for the Program for Research in Markets and Organizations.

Why is the Program being offered?: PRIMO has been developed as a collaboration between Harvard Business School and Harvard College, and is a part of the Harvard Summer Undergraduate Research Village. This program has been designed to enable motivated undergraduates to pursue summer business research in a defined project and also participate in a social network that will enhance the experience.

Who is eligible for PRIMO?: Any continuing undergraduate (current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors) in good standing at a 4-year undergraduate institution in the United States. International students who are enrolled at a U.S. based institution are eligible to apply; international students will need to work with their home institution for CPT work authorization if selected. Upon completion of the program, students must return to their home institution to complete their undergraduate degrees. We are unable to sponser participants from institutions outside of the U.S., recent graduates, or graduate students. Individuals taking summer school courses, preparing for summer graduate school entrance exam, or engaging in full-time public service projects are not eligible to participate in PRIMO. Returning undergraduate students in good academic standing are eligible to apply, but preference will be given to individuals who have not yet participated in another Research Village program.

Does this mean anyone?: Yes, as long as the applicant is in good standing at a US undergraduate institution, one may apply.

Is the Program limited to specific concentrations or majors?: Applicants may be enrolled in any concentration or major. However, the Program is designed to cultivate a community of business scholars; thus, applicants must demonstrate how the research activity they are engaged in will contribute to their development as a researcher, as indicated in the selected PRIMO-affiliated research projects. Any undergraduate at a US institution is eligible as long as one is committed to participating in the program and conducting research in one of the PRIMO-affiliated research projects.

How important is academic achievement?: PRIMO seeks to attract all undergraduates who are motivated to pursue business research during the summer. The only specific criteria with respect to academic achievement are good academic standing and coursework and/or experience that would prepare one for research.

Is financial need a factor in selecting PRIMO Fellows?: Financial aid recipients are encouraged to apply. Financial need is not factored in during the selection process.

What is the selection committee looking for?

Since the primary goal of PRIMO is to develop a diverse community of undergraduate researchers, the selection committee is looking for individuals who are likely to contribute and gain from participation in such a community. Selection will be based on applicant responses to the essay questions and comments in the recommendation letter that the applicant is strongly suited for a successful summer enrichment experience. In addition, the application should reveal an eagerness to conduct research in one of the designated research areas.

The Program is designed to attract any continuing undergraduate who is interested in and can contribute to the principles of diverse community involvement and social science research.

What are the benefits of participating in PRIMO?

PRIMO is a program that enables Fellows to have exposure to management and business research on cutting-edge topics.

In addition to free housing and meals for the summer, PRIMO will be beneficial in a number of ways:

Significant interactions with HBS faculty will allow students to gain an appreciation for research in fields that are typically not available for undergraduates. The professional development series will allow students access to research resources and individuals on cutting edge areas in business research.
The residential community of researchers will allow fellows to cultivate an interdisciplinary network of peers with whom they can communicate and collaborate outside the research environment. Many undergraduates do not have the opportunity to participate in this kind of community until much later in their careers.
The Program will allow fellows to delve into topical and critical aspects of becoming researchers through evening seminars and activities.
The Program will foster and encourage fellows to explore the many exciting pathways and professional opportunities open to those considering a career in the frontiers of business research.

Will PRIMO help me get into graduate school?: We cannot guarantee that PRIMO will have any impact on any graduate school admissions panel. However, PRIMO is a high-profile program that supports summer research, and PRIMO fellows will benefit from the opportunity to develop an interdisciplinary network of peers.

Are there any limitations to the kind of research I can do and still be eligible for PRIMO?: You may only participate in one of the PRIMO-designated research projects.

Can I get housing but not participate in the evening activities?: No. Since a key component of the Program is contribution to the community and professional development, participants must be willing and available to attend enrichment activities and events during non-research work hours.

May I live off-campus?: No. All participants will live together in the designated Harvard College House.

Instead of the meals offered at the dining hall, could I get a stipend and cook myself?: No. Due to existing programs and refurbishing activities across campus during the summer, very limited cooking facilities are available. The Program is limited to the facilities of assigned Harvard College House as well as a dining hall. For those with allergies/dietary restrictions, we will be able to work with on-campus dining services to accomodate needs.

If I participate in PRIMO, may I also get a grant or other award?: Additional funding is not required, as a modest stipend will be provided.

Does the Program pay for health insurance?: Those who are continuing Harvard College undergraduates are covered by your regular Harvard health insurance during the summer. Those from outside of Harvard may contact their health plan for information about coverage.

I already have travel plans booked. Can I miss the first few weeks of the start of the program in June or leave early in August towards the end of the program?: No. Individuals who are selected for PRIMO must commit to being on campus for the entire 9-10 week program.

Is there a strategy for choosing my references?

One letter of reference is required for PRIMO.

This letter should be written by someone in your academic community who can comment on character, initiative, and interest in pursuing academic excellence. This letter should include brief but noteworthy examples demonstrating that the applicant will benefit from participation in and contribute to PRIMO activities. Freshmen may consider obtaining a letter from someone who knows them well academically or in a research context from before their arrival at college.

How does the application cycle work?: Applicants must submit a complete application by the designated deadline. Top applicants will be contacted for interviews with Doctoral Programs staff and with faculty. After an applicant has been selected, one must re-verify their intention to participate, and commit to the schedule and activities for the full duration of PRIMO. Fellows will be given onboarding, orientation, and housing details closer to the start of programming dates.

If your questions haven't been answered above, please reach out to Darlene Le for further information.

Program for Research in Markets & Organizations

Program for Research in Markets & Organizations

FAQs