REU Programs and General Physics Questions from a Freshman

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the requirements and considerations for participating in Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programs, particularly from the perspective of a freshman in physics. Participants explore the necessary mathematics and physics coursework, the importance of undergraduate institutions in graduate school applications, and strategies for improving problem-solving skills in physics and mathematics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that freshmen are generally not accepted into REU programs due to having fewer courses and less research experience compared to upperclassmen.
  • It is proposed that gaining research experience by assisting a professor could enhance a freshman's marketability for future REU applications.
  • Participants mention the rarity of REUs specifically targeting freshmen and sophomores, but note that they do exist.
  • There is discussion about the importance of undergraduate institutions when applying to top graduate programs, with some arguing that a strong GPA, good GRE scores, and research experience are more critical than the institution itself.
  • One participant emphasizes the value of good letters of recommendation from professors who know the student well.
  • There is a suggestion to review basic undergraduate mathematics in a Math Methods course, including Differential Equations, to aid in problem-solving skills.
  • Some participants express uncertainty regarding the significance of undergraduate institution reputation, indicating that it is a debated topic without consensus.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that freshmen face challenges in securing REU positions and that research experience is beneficial. However, there is no consensus on the importance of undergraduate institution reputation in graduate school admissions, with varying opinions expressed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the discussion is influenced by personal experiences and anecdotal evidence, which may not represent broader trends or outcomes in graduate school admissions.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for undergraduate students, particularly freshmen in physics, who are considering REU programs and seeking advice on coursework and graduate school applications.

sr6622
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Hey guys, I just have a couple of questions. I am currently a freshman at a small state school.

First off, I was wondering what level of mathematics and physics is sufficient to do an REU summer program. I've emailed a few programs, and they have constantly stated that there are no specific requirements and that freshman are generally not taken. So, does anyone have any idea about a general set of classes that one should take before applying?

Currently, I am taking Calculus III (MV Cal at other colleges) and Modern Physics. Next semester I'll take Math Methods in Physics ( or Intro. to Differential Equations) and Quantum Mechanics I. Btw, does anyone think I should definitely take Diff before Math Methods? Also, I will hopefully start doing some Physics research next semester.

Second, I want to improve my Math and Physics problem-solving. Does anyone have any ideas on how to improve problem-solving skills? Are there any seminal books that I should buy? (I have Problems in General Physics by that Russian guy, btw)

Third, how important is your undergraduate institution when applying to top-rated Physics programs like MIT, Caltech, Princeton, etc.?
 
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On your REU question, freshman are generally not accepted to REU's since they have less courses under their belt, and, on average, freshman have less research experience than juniors. If you want to make yourself more marketable for an REU, your best bet would be to try to see if you can help a professor in your department with some kind of research project. Also, be on the look out for REU's that focus on freshman and sophomores. These are rare, but I did find one and get into it as a sophomore and there were three freshman in our group as well.Your undergraduate institution is not going to keep you out of top level graduate schools as long as your GPA is good, you have good Physics GRE and General Math GRE scores, and you have research experience under your belt. With all of that you should be able to get into a respectable graduate program (at least by what I'm told. I'm still and undergraduate myself). Also, REU's help in this regard since lots of schools use REU programs to recruit future graduate students.
 
REU is a great program, but you are correct that they usually do not accept freshman. As G01 suggested, you could ask around your department to see if there's an interesting project you're interested in, and in the process get to know your department and professors better. Or, you could check out the dozens of other summer research programs oriented towards undergraduates. Check out http://www.astromiror.org/opportunities.html under the Undergraduates section. You are only as limited as you make yourself feel.

I don't know what your Math Methods course is like, but the one I took was a review of all basic undergrad math used in physics classes, including Differential Equations. I found it helpful to have already taken a DE class before reviewing it in Math Methods.

Undergrad institution really isn't that important when applying to grad schools, although it can help. This issue has been debated among many and there is no consensus, but that has been my experience. G01 is also correct about other factors that graduate departments consider.

Good luck!
 
G01 said:
Your undergraduate institution is not going to keep you out of top level graduate schools as long as your GPA is good, you have good Physics GRE and General Math GRE scores, and you have research experience under your belt.

Good letters of recommendation also help, especially if they're from professors who really know you and what you can do.
 
sr6622 said:
bump

Why are you bumping this thread when you've had some good replies? Do you have any questions to any of the people who replied to you?
 
Just wanted more opinions, really...
 
jtbell said:
Good letters of recommendation also help, especially if they're from professors who really know you and what you can do.

Yes, of course, I don't know how I forgot about those!:redface:
 

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