I applied to and was accepted to the program without knowing exactly what I would be doing or what kind of project I would be working on. I knew I was interested in doing research and was considering going to graduate school. The program gave me a great feeling for what graduate school would be like. I was matched with a mentor who helped guide my research project and continues to be a friend and mentor even after the program was completed. I enjoyed meeting like-minded undergraduates and am very pleased with the entire summer experience.
--Andrew Williams, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
The summer REU program gave me a better understanding of the type of work expected from graduate school. My mentor was able to give me a true taste of the problem solving skills needed to succeed in graduate school. The REU program also provided me with experience giving technical presentations and reports as well as being a great opportunity to meet engineers with similar interests to mine.
--Mike Gram, Materials Science and Engineering
The REU program is a great opportunity to experience graduate level research first hand. It is basically like a test drive of graduate study. It gives you an insight into what research actually entails and offers a unique perspective on the cutting edge of science and technology. The REU program is literally a gateway to success, launching you into grad school at an amazing speed. It is also a great opportunity to network with leaders in your field, as well as your peers. My experience was inspirational, motivating, insightful and enriching.
--Dante Guerra, Mechanical Engineering
The summer REU program provided me with a great opportunity to learn about the research and development of nanobiotechnolgy in a university setting. My project allowed me to better understand, and influence, how this exciting new technology is going to impact our lives in the future. The combination of learning about nanobiotechnology and working with expert faculty and the other students made the summer REU progam a very rewarding experience.
--Ben Syzek, Philosophy
My perspectives of graduate school, professors, careers, and research were significantly enhanced through my time spent as an REU student at OSU last summer. I was able to work and interact with wonderful people who helped me grow as a chemist, communicator, and a person. I was given a much "bigger picture" of the significance of scientific research and the cohesiveness of many scientific communities. Overall, my time at OSU last summer was not solely a memorable experience, but an experience that has propelled me to fly.
--Amanda Luckenbill, Analytical Chemistry
My experience at OSU was fantastic. Columbus was a wonderful place to spend my summer and everyone involved with the program made it very easy to get acclimated in a new city. I had the opportunity to work in OSU's medical center, which was wonderful for me as a Pre-med student. The most significant part of my experience was the confidence it gave me when I came back to my classes. OSU's REU program gave me the lab and critical thinking skills I needed, and I am better prepared and more competitive because of this experience. I highly recommend it.
--Mallory Strickland, Biochemistry