What are the best options for summer research/internships in science?

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The discussion centers around choosing a summer opportunity among three options: research at the current university, a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program at another university, and the Naval Research Program (NREIP). The university research position offers low pay without housing or food allowances, leading to financial concerns. The REU programs provide comparable stipends but include assistance for housing and food, making them more financially viable. The NREIP offers a higher wage but may not align with the individual's research interests. Concerns are raised about the quality of research experiences, particularly with the NREIP, based on past experiences. The conversation also touches on the importance of aligning summer work with future academic goals, particularly for those considering graduate school. Participants emphasize the value of REUs in refining research interests and suggest exploring additional opportunities, including private companies, depending on the individual's field and goals.
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Hello all, I have been having some trouble with deciding what to do this summer and was hoping those of you with experience in the area could give some advice.

My three options are:
1. Research at my current university. The pay is $8/hr, with no housing or food allowance. This is the lab I work at during the year and would allow me to really progress with the use of the equipment etc. My main problem is that between the low wage and having to pay for housing and food, I will make no money!

2. REU (research at another university). Most have a comparable stipend as above but do provide sizable assistance with housing/food.

3. Naval Research Program (NREIP). Pays $20.25 an hour (nice!) yet may not be in my area of interest exactly (as in may not help with research I focus on during the school year).

Any one with any opinions here? I really haven't heard much about REUs! My concern is that I won't get any "real" research done at NREIP (Ive done essentially the same program last summer, but to be fair that was just a poor experience because of the group I got stuck with), but won't get any money doing "real" research at school. Tell me if I am wrong about any of this! Thanks.
 
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Are there no other possibilities than these three?
Some private company, for example?
Depends a lot on what your field of experience is.
 
It depends also on your goals. Are you planning on grad school? I did an REU last summer and hope to do another one this summer. It was a great experience and really helped me focus my interests.
 

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