Can I still get into REU programs if I have research experience at a big school?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the eligibility and chances of gaining admission to Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programs for students who are already involved in research at a large university. The scope includes considerations of research experience, application strategies, and the perceived preferences of REU programs.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the necessity of applying to REUs if the individual is already engaged in research at their university.
  • Another suggests that applying to multiple REUs could be beneficial, regardless of current research involvement.
  • A later reply asserts that having research experience and strong letters of recommendation from faculty can enhance chances of acceptance into REUs, citing examples of peers who have successfully participated in multiple REUs while also conducting research at their home institution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity and potential benefits of applying to REUs when already involved in research. There is no consensus on whether current research experience at a large school is a disadvantage for REU applications.

phrygian
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I go to a big school with lots of physics research available. I started in a group at the beginning of this year, and I'm a junior and have good grades. From looking on different REU program websites it seems like a lot of them seem to want people with limited access to research at their school. Since I am at a research school and am currently involved in research do I have much of a chance of getting into any REU's?
 
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If you are already involved in research, why do you specifically want an REU?
 
It wouldn't hurt to apply to one or 10 you're interested in.
 
phrygian said:
Since I am at a research school and am currently involved in research do I have much of a chance of getting into any REU's?

Yes you have a fine chance. In fact, you may even have a better chance if some of your letters of recommendation are coming from people you research with saying what a good researcher you are. I know quite a few people who have done multiple REUs and also research at their home university, so you should definitely apply.
 

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