i did an NSF funded REU at Madison..it was a topnotch experience..if you are a junior or earlier and want to do research, def check out the sites at the NSF website..just google "nsf reu"..a bunch of schools have them and they include full time res exp with a mentor, a decent stipend, housing travel, etc..even a gym membership from mine🙂
feeel free to PM or post with questions..there were definitely + & -'s to my experience..