Math + Stats Student Association Cal State Long Beach What is an REU? Math + Stats Student Association Cal State Long Beach

R.E.U. = Research Experience for Undergraduates

Okay, what’s that?

The basics. An eight to ten week summer research program held at a university in the U.S. REUs give you the opportunity to take part in research related to your major while in undergrad There are REUs for: Pure Math, Applied Math, Math Ed, Stats, Physics, Material Science, Biology, Chemistry, etc. REUs are typically funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Warning: The goal of an REU is to produce RESEARCHERS not research. Do not expect publishable results, but it can happen!

Is it paid?

The financial details. Every REU is different! However . . . REUs typically offer an average stipend (one-time payment) of $4,000 Some offer: travel reimbursement, free or subsidized housing, food allowance, and/or full or partial funding to attend an academic conference.

Who is eligible?

Basic requirements. Every REU has their own requirements. However . . . You must be a U.S. citizen (sometimes, being a permanent residence counts, ask!) You must be an undergraduate at a U.S. university You must not be graduating You must be enrolled in classes the semester after your REU, continuing your undergraduate coursework

How do I find REUs?

https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.jsp

http://www.ams.org/programs/students/emp-reu

How do I apply for REUs?

Application basics. Once you have found programs from the NSF website or researching on your own Visit the REUs websites Collect all relevant information from the website Compare REUs and narrow them down Every REU has a different application process. Their website will tell you how to apply. It could be via: A google form Emailing in all application materials Using mathprograms.org Most applications require: a personal statement, transcript, resume/CV, and two letters of recommendation

A bit of advice for when applying. Start now! Look for REUs that interest you! Don’t worry about the location! Apply for at least 4, no more than 8 Ask for letters of recommendation as soon as possible! Create a list of all of the REUs you are applying to, when the LORs are due, and how your recommender turns in the LORs. Send this list to your recommenders! Thank your recommenders Apply even if you think you won’t get in Try to finish all of your personal statements/applications during winter break

Our Experiences

Jennifer Gensler @ UT Tyler

Rico Vicente @ Clemson University

Q? A.