When should I give up on getting an REU? Should I ask my professors if they know anybody who'll need help this summer? If so, will these be paid? Because I'd do research if I could, but the bills still need to be paid.
You're overthinking it.
Gather information and whatnot, but try to recognize when you've crossed the line into obsession and save yourself some stress.
Re: Conflicting advice
I just collect it all then do what I want.
OP seems to have some control issues. There will always be someone telling you what to do or how to do it, engineering or not. Concerning these specific situations of projects in school, these projects they have you do are specifically designed to teach you something. They can be fun, but that...
I was lucky enough to score an REU last summer and I thoroughly enjoyed it. If, given the choice, should I choose the position that is similar to what I did last year or something different; i.e., which would look better for grad school applications? Also, since I got one last year, am I more...
Thanks for your reply. If it doesn't exist I will create it. I just thought I'd get a big head start on it by using someone else's foundation.
Also, since you don't like a spreadsheet for this job, what would you recommend to compile all of the information?
I am on a quest for the most perfect spreadsheet designed to assist with choosing or applying to phd programs. If anyone is in possession of such an artifact, I implore you to bestow it upon me so I may bathe in the light of the knowledge garnered by those who came before. If your wondrous...
You should hang out with other physics majors. My classmates and I often commiserate with each other over how we feel like idiots all of the time. You are not alone in your struggle.