Our Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program is ideal if you want the opportunity to work closely with a faculty mentor on a math research project. The experience emphasizes close relationships with faculty advisors in small groups of 1-3 students.

During the admission process, we try to match you with an appropriate project and advisor. The faculty advisor will be able to send suggestions for background reading prior to the start of the program.

The REU program unofficially begins with a reception hosted by the Math department. At this event you are able meet other participants, as well as the faculty mentors.

Throughout the eight weeks of this summer program, you meet privately with your faculty advisors several times per week. The first few weeks are dedicated to helping you understand the details of your particular project. During the middle weeks, you work full-time on the project. The last two weeks are spent preparing both a written and oral report communicating your results. All along the way, the faculty mentor provides assistance and encouragement.

REU students are given a dedicated seminar room in which to study and socialize. At least once a week, faculty mentors give accessible lectures on topics of current research interest in mathematics. A graduate student provides an introduction to the LaTeX typesetting system and serves as a consultant for preparation of the written report.

During the last week, you give a lecture presentation about your own work. The written reports that all participants are required to complete are bound together into a single volume that is duplicated and distributed to students and faculty mentors. Although there is no requirement to do so, you are also encouraged to submit your research paper for publication.

One of the most important aspects of the REU program is student-to-student interaction. For many participants, this may be the first opportunity to get to know others with comparable mathematical interest and ability. All students live together a single dormitory on campus, and are encouraged to participate in several organized social events. Each group usually develops its own unique character, often organizing some of its own activities.