What is an REU and what can it do for you?

From a presentation by Lance Baird

What is an REU?

REU stands for research experience for undergraduates
REU programs are funded by the National Science Foundation and are generally held at universities and sometimes at private businesses
There are also SURF, which stands for summer undergraduate research fellowship, programs which are exactly like REUs
REUs give undergraduates the chance to do real research with universities and certain companies
They generally consist of a 10 week program during the summer, in which a student does research alongside a faculty member of the participating school or company

Generally the student is expected to put in about 40 hours of work in a week
Although the work load differs with each institution, most schools require the student to do a poster session at the end of the program relating what his/her research group has accomplished

First of all, any kind of research looks great on one’s resume and gives one much more of an advantage when applying to graduate and medical schools
Second, almost all REUs pay one anywhere from $2,500-3,500, supply food and housing, and pay your travel to a nationally sponsored convention in your field of study
Third, doing and REU gives you a great opportunity to see a different part of the country, meet new people, and scope out possible places for graduate or medical school

The eligibility for an REU differs for each institution, but generally a G.P.A. of about 3.0 is required and the student should be either an entering junior or senior

Generally, applications are due by the beginning of the year
Approximately Feb.-March
Applications should be turned in as soon as possible
Most applications require the student to write a letter of intent or personal statement