REU Internships

If you're thinking about applying to an REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates), you're already on the right path. REUs are competitive paid summer research programs that give you hands on experience in labs and academic settings. They’re not just for people who already have research experience, they’re for students who are curious, motivated, and want to learn.

Where to Find REU Opportunities

Start early. Most applications open around November and are due between January and February. Here are the best places to look:

• NSF REU Site Listings: This is the main database of REU programs funded by the National Science Foundation.

• Pathways to Science: This is a searchable site that lists REUs, fellowships, and internships across STEM fields.

• NASA Internship: NASA offers both REU-like research opportunities and internships.

• Society websites: Check organizations like the American Astronomical Society (AAS), American Geophysical Union (AGU), and Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) for REU listings or opportunities through their networks.

• Also, follow university research labs, professors, or student pages on Twitter/LinkedIn. Some labs run REU-like programs that may not be NSF funded but still offer research and funding.

Essay Tips

• The application essays are your chance to speak directly to the selection committee. This is where you go beyond your GPA or transcript. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Be yourself; you don’t need to sound like a robot or try to prove you’re the smartest. Focus on your curiosity and growth.

• Be specific; talk about the moments that made you interested in research or shaped your career goals.

• Don’t overthink your background, if you’ve never done research before, that’s okay.

• Show, don’t just tell; say what project, class, or experience made you realize your aspiration.

• Keep the reader in mind and make it easy for them to understand who you are and why you want to be there.

Common REU Essay Questions

You’ll likely see some variation of these questions across most programs:

• Describe your previous research experience. If you have none, why are you interested in research?

• What are your academic and career goals?

• Why are you interested in this particular program or university?

• Tell us about your technical background. What coding or software experience do you have?

• Describe a time you faced a challenge or persevered through difficulty.

• How have you worked as part of a team or handled conflict in group settings?

• Tell us about your personal background and how it has shaped your path.

• Is there any additional information you’d like to share with us?

“Is there anything else we should know?”

Do not skip this. This is your opportunity to give context. Use it. If you struggled in a course because of personal, family, or health reasons, this is the place to say it. If you're switching majors or exploring a new field and your transcript doesn't reflect your current goals, explain that. If you're a first-generation college student, balancing work and school, or come from a background that impacted your academic journey, this is your space to tell them. If there’s something that didn’t fit in the other responses, like relevant experiences, languages you speak, or future goals, add that here. This question is often where selection committees get a more complete picture of who you are.