Researching at Fermilab: Gradschool Admissions + Prestige

[Spriteling]

So, I have an offer from the URochester REU to work on a project at Fermilab this summer, on the MINERvA neutrino experiments.

The thing is, I'm much more interested in theory than experiment for particle physics. On the other hand, this is Fermilab. However, I was wondering whether or not doing research at Fermilab has as much prestige in the physics world as it does for non-scientists. My friends and family think this is the greatest opportunity ever. However, for grad school admissions, does it also look very good? Would it be better to do theory somewhere like UWash or UCLA (if I get offers from their REUs) or would Fermilab look very good on my applications, even though I want to study theory?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Vanadium 50]

I think "it looks good on my applications" is not a very good reason to do anything. I also think that what will help you most on applications is more on what you get out of the REU rather than who accepted you.

 

[Spriteling]

Well, I mean, there definitely is that too. I'm not going to go somewhere I hate to look good, because then I'd waste 10 weeks. Having it look good on an application, though, would be an added bonus.

I suppose more what I want to know is whether or not I'd be horrifically stupid to turn down an offer at Fermilab to work somewhere else on a project I might possibly enjoy more.

 

[Rebooter]

It seems like a solid CV booster to me.
Theory based research isn't going to be nearly as helpful (for industry level work anyway).

 

[eri]

Chances are good you're not at a point where you could make a theoretical contribution to the field in a summer. Most people never reach that point. The REU would be a great opportunity for you and perhaps open up more in the future.

 

[guphysics]

on the topic of Fermilab research- does anyone know when they announce their internship acceptances?