I enjoyed my experiences during REU programs. My first REU was the Nanotechnology and Biomedicine Program at the University of Georgia in 2016. This was a 10-week program focused on biomedical research and we also had seminars on different career fields, applying for graduate school, and applying for fellowships and grants. I worked with a graduate in the Handa lab on developing an antimicrobial coating for implants and medical devices.Through this experience, I learned that I loved biomedical engineering research. 


My second REU was an international opportunity in Bordeaux, France in 2017. I conducted biomaterial research with Dr. Véronique Coma at the Laboratoire de Chimie des Polymères Organiques. I was one of 10 U.S. students selected to participate in the US/France/Belgium international REU in Translational Chemistry through Louisiana State University. My project focused on using natural materials as antimicrobial agents for wound healing applications. This experience helped me develop my research skills, improve my science communication through workshops at the French and American Embassies, and learn about the importance of international research experiences.


REUs are a good option for undergraduates interested in understanding the research process and learning new topics. Plus….. YOU GET PAID! Most REUs are well-funded and provide stipends to participating students, so apply!



Application Tips:

  • Ask for recommendation letters early and follow up often
  • Have multiple people look over your application (friends, advisors, etc.)
  • Reach out to professors directly if you’re interested in a particular project. Sometimes they can help you get admitted based on your experience and interests.


Program Tips:

  • Be curious, don’t be afraid to ask questions
  • Read papers on your topic to understand the problem and current research strategies
  • Keep your lab notebook updated 
  • Read over the protocols before you start to 1) make sure you understand what’s going on 2) make sure you have all the materials needed
  • Practice your presentation whether oral and poster