REU or learning what life as a scientist might really be like

The Research Experience for Undergraduates is an NSF-sponsored program in which undergraduates work side-by-side with researchers in their field and conduct an independent project. This is as hands-on as it gets in undergrad science education and, as it fits with the theme of this blog, it is usually an off campus learning experience. I was fortunate enough to have an REU and since then I have also observed REU participants at the Shoals and Bodega Marine Labs (see previous post). I even temporarily helped to supervise an REU, but that is a topic for a whole different blog.

Upper level undergrads can experience what life would be like for them as a 'real' scientist while benefiting from the guidance of an established researcher. Much like taking an intensive class at a marine lab, the REU also fits the immersion learning approach. Most REU design, execute, and report on their own research project thereby taking their classroom science education and putting it to work. For many REUs, this is also a unique chance to take part in a off campus learning experience with all the associated intensity and benefits.

In class student projects and laboratory exercises and reports are valuable learning tools in science, but an REU may have the opportunity to publish their research and for a future career scientist there is no equivalent undergrad experience. Even if a student does not continue on to a career in science, there are several benefits to being an REU that they might not get in on campus classes. They spend more time working closely with and learning from a researcher than could on campus (I think even more than in a semester as an assistant in a lab). If they are part of an institutional REU in which a group of undergrads are accepted by a research facility and go through the program together, they could form a close bond with other REUs that will be their future science peers. And the organizational, planning, and communication skills that are an integral part of any REU are beneficial regardless of career path.