The REU Program In Mathematics

FAQ

Frequently-Asked Questions


Question:  Is an official transcript necessary to apply, or can I send an unofficial one?

Answer:   An unofficial transcript is fine.


Question:  How do you assign students to research topics?  Can I choose?

Answer:   In May, we will send alll eight student participants some readings for each of the four topics.  On the first full day of the program in June, each professor will give a talk about his or her topic.  At the end of that day, each student sends an e-mail to the professors ranking the topics and giving reasons.  The next day (Tuesday), the professors meet, look at the preference rankings, and assign the students to the topics.  By 11AM on Tuesday, you are starting work on your research topic with another student and your faculty mentor.

Question:  I am not an American citizen nor a permanent resident.  Can I still apply to the program, or else be a unpaid research student in the program?

Answer:  No, we're sorry.  The funds from the NSF are intended only for citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions.  Also, the program in not designed to have extra students participate.


Question:  Can I participate in your REU if I obtain my own funding or pay my own way?

Answer:   The GVSU REU program is for REU supported participants only. We regret that we cannot accept other participants in the program.


Question:  I am graduating in May. Can I still participate?

Answer:   Students who have received their bachelor's degrees and are no longer enrolled as undergraduates are generally not eligible to participate.


Question:  Is it difficult to get to Grand Valley from where I live?

Answer:  Grand Valley is near a major airport (the Grand Rapids airport).  Interstate 96 connects Grand Rapids with Detroit, while Interstate 196/94 connects the area with Chicago.  Past participants have been driven or flown here with little trouble.


Question:  Can I use my REU program as a starting point for my Senior Project?

Answer:  Yes.  Several participants have done this in the past.


Question:  How much work is involved?

Answer:  Expect to work 40-60 hours a week on your research project.  This includes directed readings, problem solving, meeting with your faculty mentor, preparing weekly written reports, and preparing talks.


Question:  Is "Group Fun" paid for by the REU program.

Answer:  No, money for social activities comes from your own pocket.  However, Group Fun activities are voluntary.


Question:  Is the stipend taxable?

Answer:  Although participants will not get a 1099 form from GVSU, the stipend is considered income.  That is all the tax advice we can give.