NSF REU programs

[Josh7]

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Hello all,

I plan to apply for some REU programs for next summer but I'd like to hear some opinions of people who have been involved in an REU in the past.

1. How was the experience? Do you think it was worth the use of the summer?
2. Letters of Recommendation: should they be from professors strictly? Or past employers, grad student I conduct research with etc.
3. How competitive are these programs? Would a more research driven degree (Like materials science) have more competitive REUs?
4. Do you think an REU is really necessary when I will already have 4+ semesters of research when I apply to medical school?

Thanks,
Josh

 

[wanderedtoolong]

My two cents:

1. How was the experience? Do you think it was worth the use of the summer?

Entirely dependent on your REU adviser/ the specific program. It will be a great experience if you truly connect with your mentor.

2. Letters of Recommendation: should they be from professors strictly? Or past employers, grad student I conduct research with etc.

Ideally profs w/ PhDs, but if a grad student knows you way better that's probably ok. Often the grad student writes the letter, and the PI signs it so it still has the required clout.

3. How competitive are these programs? Would a more research driven degree (Like materials science) have more competitive REUs?

Depends on the program/how many slots they have/ how attractive the program is ie the REU with OTS in Costa Rica might be more competitive because, well, it's in Costa Rica.

4. Do you think an REU is really necessary when I will already have 4+ semesters of research when I apply to medical school?

If this is your sole reason for applying for an REU, don't do it. The experience is meant for people truly interested in research, and if you're just doing it to check a box on an application, that's a waste. This is a fully funded opportunity to really engage in research and address an interesting question with the guidance of a mentor who is taking time they don't have to advise an undergrad.

On the other hand, med schools like to see research experience because it teaches a methodology/perspective that is very useful in medicine. If you can dream up a project for the summer that you're really excited about and find a mentor within an REU who can help you execute it, go for it.