FAQ
What is an REU?
From the NSF's REU
Synopsis:
The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the National Science Foundation. REU projects involve students in meaningful ways in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program.
Where is Humboldt State?
What are the requirements for acceptance?
Read about acceptance requirements on the Requirements & Benefits
page.
Do I need to be enrolled in a B.A. or B.S. program?
Yes, at the time of application, you must be working
toward a B.A. or B.S. degree and actively enrolled.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
Yes, only U.S. citizens may apply.
How do I apply?
You may apply online or via mail from the Application page. Applications are
due by 5pm on Monday, March 3, 2008.
How much would I get paid?
Your stipend is $375 per week for 9 weeks, totaling
$3375. Additionally, another $500 is awarded if you
present your poster at a conference and publish your
paper. See more details at the Requirements & Benefits
page.
When does the program start & end?
The program runs from May 18 to July 23, 2008.
What are the 2008 projects that I may work on?
See the proposed projects on the 2008
Proposals page (coming soon!).
What were past projects? Has any work been published?
All past projects (from 2005, 2006, & 2007), including
publications, are found on the Past Years page.
Who will I work with?
You will likely be in a team with one or two other REU
students. You will also be working with typically one
faculty mentor.
How hard is it? What is a typical day like?
Working in an REU is intensive. You must learn about your
project very quickly, execute experiments or devise new
solutions, interpret and evaluate your results, and write
and present a paper and poster worthy of
publication. Thus, a typical day leaves a lot of free time
for working toward these ends. Weekly group activities
(academic and recreational) are also planned.
Is it fun?
Of course! The best REU students are certainly organized
and motivated, but to offset all the work, many fun
activities take place each summer. These include white
water rafting, hiking in the redwood forests, a yearly
"Kinetic Sculpture Race", visiting the beach, an Oyster
Festival and Jazz Festival, local baseball games, group
BBQs, hanging out with new friends, and so on.
Will participating in an REU help me get into graduate school?
Absolutely yes. In addition to valuable research
experience and conference presentations, you will have the
opportunity to request a reference letter from your
faculty mentor when you apply for graduate programs.
Where can I find other REUs?
The National Science Foundation has a webpage for just this
purpose. Visit the NSF's Search
for an REU Site page.