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.

New this year, we will have a one month online preparatory component to our program to provide specific necessary background to welcome a wider variety of students. This will run from May 9 to June 2, and will be conducted online and accommodate up to 4 students; expect the workload to be intensive. This can help fill gaps if you don't have all the necessary prerequisites for the program. You do not need to submit a separate application for this component.

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 in 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.