How to apply
Instructions
All students must apply through the online applications form.
Applications for Summer 2021 will open November 2020 and close February 12, 2021. Applicants will be notified no later than March 15, 2021.
Before you begin the online applicaiton form, be sure you have the following items ready:
- Biographical and contact information
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who are able to comment on your skills, accomplishments, and personality.
- A two-page PDF application essay that describes: (i) your interest and enthusiasm for the program; (ii) future career ambitions; (iii) a ranking of your top 3 research topics.
- Unofficial copies of your Academic Transcripts in PDF format.
All documents must be uploaded to the application form in PDF format. Please name the documents following "last name_document.pdf" (i.e., "Jacques_ReferenceLetter1.pdf").
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation from persons who know your academic qualifications are required. Recommenders should be chosen from people most familiar with your former studies, research interests, or work, including at least one instructor in the institution you last attended, preferably from instructors familar with your work related to resilient infrastructure. One of the two recommendation letters may come from an employer or supervisor.
Selection Criteria
Selection to the REU Site will be based on several factors, including but not limited to the following:
- Character qualities such as perceived student tenacity, dependability, desire to do independent work, willingness to take risks, and intellectual curiosity will be given preference over academic aptitude.
- Potentional for effective student mentee-faculty mentor relationships and alignment with available research projects.
- Appropriate qualifications.
- Desire to apply for graduate school and apply for graduate fellowships.
- Willingness to live on campus during the REU period. See COVID-19 contingency planning.
- Ability to work 40 hours per week and participate in professional development programming and social activities.
- Commitment to prepare a written final report at the end of the summer and pariticipate in an oral presentation.
- Commitment to participate in surveys.
- Underrepsented students, women, and students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.