Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What are the program dates?
• This year's program begins June 2nd and ends August 8th, 2008.
• Where is the application?
• The applications are online at: http://mrsec.umd.edu/REU/2008_REU_Application.pdf
• What's the application deadline?
• The deadline for all application materials is March 5th, 2008.
• What is the stipend?
• The stipend is $4,500.00. Students receive the stipend in four equal pays during the 10-week period. The stipend can be used for food and recreation.
• Will I have internet access in my housing?
• Yes, we will set up an access account for you as soon as you arrive at UMD. If your computer has an ethernet card or wireless access card, you will be able to log on to the campus network to access the internet.
• What and when are the social activities?
• Social activities are ongoing and modified by student interest. However, a lot fun is had by all! The 2008 Calendar is not yet available, but until it is posted, you can check the social activities 2007 calendar.
• Where do I send the letters and transcript?
• Please send all application materials to:
      MRSEC-REU Summer Program
      Physics Building 082, Room 2120
      University of Maryland
      College Park, MD 20742-4111
      FAX: 301-405-7993
• What should I do if I cannot get my transcript in by March 5, 2008?
• Email us to let us know when to expect your transcripts and provide a list of the physics, chemistry, and engineering courses you have taken, with your grades for those courses and the names of the instructors. The list will help the committee evaluate your application until we receive your official transcript.
• I'm an international student. Am I eligible to apply?
• No. Due to program funding, we can accept applications only from US citizens and permanent US residents.
• What are the research projects this year?
• Summer 2008 research projects are being posted as they are finalized. All final projects will be posted by November 21, 2007. For descriptions of last year’s projects, please see 2007 research projects.
• When will I know if I've been selected?
• We will begin making offers about the third week of February 2008 on a "rolling admissions" basis. If your application is complete by then, there is a chance that you would hear from us. Otherwise, we plan to have all our selections made by the March 22nd, 2008.
• How will applications be evaluated?
• The REU selection committee is made up of previous REU advisors. Selection will be based on the application, statement of interest, academic standing, and faculty recommendations. All applications that have reached us by March 5, 2008 will receive full consideration.
• When will I find out what project I will be working on?
• Once the 2008 group is selected, projects, faculty, and students will be carefully matched. This process includes student majors, projects preferences, and project needs. Students will be informed as soon as possible.
• Why choose the University of Maryland MRSEC-REU Program?
• Outstanding research facilities, excellent faculty, great location in the metro-Washington DC area, and a well-rounded overall experience.
Additional questions can be directed to Alex Prasertchoung at spraser@umd.edu or call 301-405-8349.