Question for those who have done an REU.

[rodigee]

Hello, I'm a math major so this is primarily posed at people who have done math REUs, but I welcome comments from the physics people as well.

My question is: How does taking part REU compare to just doing research on your own under minimal supervision by a professor? Are REU's just more structured? More group oriented? If you have done both do you prefer one over the other?

I ask this because all the decisions from the summer programs I've applied to are starting to come back, and I'm trying to decide which genre of program to partake in before I chose a specific program.

Thanks for your thoughts.

 

[Oxymuon]

Your REU experience is really going to depend on your advisor. It does tend to be very group-oriented (you will spend a LOT of time with the other REUers) but how structured the research is will depend on how good your advisor is. Most likely you will have to write a paper and/or give a presentation at the end of the summer, so that by itself will provide some structure.

 

[Mene]

As a scientist who has participated in both REUs and independent research projects, I can say that they both have their own unique benefits and challenges. REUs (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) are typically more structured and involve working in a group setting with other students and a faculty mentor. This can be a great opportunity to learn from others, collaborate, and develop teamwork skills. Additionally, REUs often have a specific project or topic that students work on, which can be helpful in providing a focused research experience.

On the other hand, doing research on your own under minimal supervision can also have its advantages. It allows for more independence and the opportunity to pursue your own interests and ideas. However, it can also be more challenging as you may not have as much guidance and support from a mentor.

In terms of which one I prefer, it really depends on the individual and their goals. Some people may thrive in a structured and collaborative environment, while others may prefer the freedom and independence of working on their own. It's important to consider your own learning style and what you hope to gain from the experience when deciding which type of program to participate in.

Overall, both REUs and independent research projects can be valuable experiences for undergraduate students. They offer opportunities to learn new skills, explore different research topics, and make connections with other researchers in the field. My advice would be to carefully consider your options and choose the program that aligns best with your interests and goals. Good luck with your decision!