Preparing a Physics Resume for REU Applications

[tourjete]

I'm getting a head start on applying for REUs this weekend and am currently typing up my resume since one of the applications asks for one.

Should I put clubs I was in during high school on the resume? A lot of what I did in high school isn't relevant to physics at all (I was heavily involved in theatre and music during high school) so I understand leaving that off the resume. But I was also the vice-president of a club and would like to put that on my resume if its socially acceptable... I go to a university of 25,000 and don't really have anything that screams "leader" on my application otherwise.

 

[eri]

REU programs don't really care about leadership skills. They care about whether or not you'll be good at research. They want to see things like computer skills (programming, multiple operating systems, MATLAB, Mathematica, etc), good grades in your classes, and hopefully that you've done some research at your own school already.

 

[tourjete]

REU programs don't really care about leadership skills. They care about whether or not you'll be good at research. They want to see things like computer skills (programming, multiple operating systems, MATLAB, Mathematica, etc), good grades in your classes, and hopefully that you've done some research at your own school already.

Thanks! I guess I'll leave off the leadership experience. I am currently doing research at my school, so I guess that gives me a better chance?

 

[eri]

Having some research experience definitely helps - play that up in your application, and ask that professor for a letter of recommendation.

 

[rezeew]

I would recommend including only relevant experiences and achievements on your physics resume for REU applications. While being the vice-president of a club in high school may demonstrate leadership skills, it may not be directly applicable to physics. Instead, focus on highlighting experiences and skills that are specific to the field of physics, such as research projects, relevant coursework, and any relevant internships or work experience. Additionally, you can mention any extracurricular activities or clubs that are related to physics or STEM in general. This will help showcase your passion and dedication to the field. However, if you have space on your resume and feel that being the vice-president of the club is an important aspect of your overall leadership experience, you can mention it briefly. Ultimately, the most important aspect of your application will be your academic background and research experience, so make sure to prioritize those on your resume.