RESEARCH EXPERIENCES FOR (I picked this theme because its

UNDERGRADUATES (REU) called Integral)

WHAT IS AN REU?
Basically, the National Science Foundation pays
you to travel to other universities and do research
with their faculty
Usually 8 weeks during the summer
Work like a full time job doing your research, nights are
free
Differ in work schedule
Small research groups, each with a faculty mentor
and specific research question
At the end, you present your work at conferences
(paid for by the NSF) across the US
Some REU projects even get published PJ Grossweiler and Dr. Chichia Chiu (MSU) at SURIEM
2017
 WHY DO AN REU?
Grad school applications
Resume builder

Meet friends from all over the US

Similar goals, similar interests

Meet faculty from different universities

Help you decide if you want a career in research
In addition to the research aspect, there are often
workshops
Grad school informational sessions, resume workshops, guest
speakers, etc

Gain experience in presenting your work

Pays well
Some pay more than others but most are around $4000-
$5000 in addition to room and board at the university and
grants for travel to/from the university and to/from conferences
WHO CAN APPLY?
US Citizens or permanent residents
Undergraduates
Usually rising juniors or seniors

Preference is given to women, minorities,

and people without access to research
opportunities at their home institutions
HOW TO APPLY (WITH SUGGESTIONS)
Search NSF REU
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/

Search for an REU site

Pick mathematics (or whatever area you want to do research in)
They also have STEM education REUs

Narrow down to <10 REUs

Based on stipend, location, topic, date

Make a list/spreadsheet for materials, topic, date, stipend, application deadline

The vast majority accept applications through mathprograms.org
Find the program and submit materials there
MATERIALS (MAY VARY)
Basic profile on mathprograms.org
Name, address, university, etc .

Personal statement/statement of interest

short essay that says a little about you and why you want to do this REU

List of math classes with grades

Unofficial transcripts
Resume
Research statement
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Very important
(SUGGESTED) TIMELINE
Now: Start making faculty connections and looking through the REUs
Fall semester: Decide which REUs you will be applying to, start gathering materials,
ask for recommendation letters
Winter Break: Submit application materials on mathprograms.org
Spring Semester: receive recommendation letters and finalize applications (keeping in
mind application deadlines)
Around Spring break: start getting emails of acceptance/rejection and make plans
for your summer
ITS FUN, I PROMISE
During an REU, math is just
your day-job.
Nights and weekends are
usually free
Hang out with new friends,
explore new areas