Find an REU

I’ve seen a lot of students ask about how they should prepare for a virtual REU. I’ve also seen a lot of students say that they are scared and feel intimidated about their REU’s. As someone who has run REU programs, I know that once in a while we’ll get that student who thinks this is a paid vacation. Not often but it does happen which is why you’ll often find that the language associated with the structure and the guidelines sometimes seems a bit stern. This is by design because there’s sometimes that person who doesn’t go to anything. Don’t be that person. After reading the structure and format and the policies you might read and think, “Wow, this sounds really intense.” Am I ready for this? Yes, you are. Here some tips to overcome imposter syndrome and excel in your virtual REU.

1. Do not be Intimidated. Did you know that approximately 70% of people suffer from imposter syndrome? When I first learned this I thought there’s no way but yes, it is true. Some people are just really good actors. Okay now that you know this it might help somewhat but when good old imposter syndrome starts creeping in here are some good mantras to tell yourself:
   
   “Feel scared but do it anyway.” Fun fact: I use this one ALL OF THE TIME!
   “They chose me for this summer program for a reason because I’m amazing.” YOU ARE!
   “It’s research, we don’t have all of the answers and I’m not expected to know everything.” Exactly! It’s Research Experience for Undergraduates not Research Experience for Turing Awardees.
   
2. Find a Designated Workspace. First and foremost be sure to have a designated spot where you will work. It could be more than one. For instance, in the beginning, you’ll spend a lot of time going over journals to review or other readings that will give you some background on the project. A lot of students say to me, “I haven’t started yet, I’m just doing the readings.” Guess what? If that’s what you’re doing then you’ve already started! You don’t run the Boston Marathon without a warmup. Go to your favorite cafe or boba shop and read articles. Make sure you have a designated space at home where you will do your research. Let others know you’re busy. Even if it just looks like you’re just staring at the screen you are unavailable and are working.
   
3. Your equipment is off-limits. I know this might be hard to explain to friends or family members who may want to “just quickly use your laptop” to print something out but nope it’s off-limits. You’ve got data, sensitive information and chances are you’ve got your settings in place for your use. So as harsh as it may sound, “Say no!!” Your laptop is off-limits, those cool Arduinos you’re working with are also off-limits. People will say that you are greedy. Guess what? Greed is good. You’ll thank me when you don’t have any mishaps as a result of being too generous. True story, I let a family member use my laptop really quickly and the next thing I knew I went into a meeting and I had a Pikachu from Pokemon background. I got weird looks from my colleagues especially when I was presenting on a serious issue.
   
4. Lights, Camera, Action. Make sure your camera is always on in meetings. Important when you’re camera is off it will give the impression that you’re not engaged. Camera broken? Let them know that you need a laptop to use during the program. You need to be seen, out of sight is out of mind.
   
5. Software Central. Be sure you have reliable wifi and have access to all of the software that you will need. If there’s a campus network that has articles or software that you’ll need access to it would be best to ask about this beforehand. Ask if you can get access to the university portal if you need to look up any journal articles. They can likely give you temporary access for the duration of your internship.
   
6. One on Ones. Schedule regular meetings with your PI and your graduate mentor to talk to them about your interest in graduate school, that is if you are interested in graduate school. If you’re not sure then a good thing to talk to them about would be trends in related fields. A good conversation piece might be what you’re taking in the fall semester. Remember faculty and grad students enjoy talking about their research. PI stands for Principal Investigator. If there is any acronym that you don’t know ask what it is immediately. Simply say, “I’m not familiar with that acronym what does it stand for?”
   
7. Graduate Programs. Many REU programs will have presentations on graduate programs at their university. If you are interested then take notes. Ask the person presenting if they have any in-person visit opportunities in the future. I’m sure that they will. Get the presenter’s name and contact information, and ask them to add you to their listservs. A lot of graduate recruiters promote opportunities and send out to a list of students that they’ve interacted with. You want to get on those lists, you want them to recognize your name and know about opportunities whether it be visit days, grad labs, or other events of interest. These people will likely have information on fellowships or other intel that will be helpful in your graduate school process.
   
8. The Final Presentation. Talk to your PI and graduate mentor about the format of the final presentation. Since it’s virtual there are a number of ways it might be presented. To make it easier find out the format for the final presentation that way you can be prepared. It’s always great to do a “dress rehearsal” for your lab. Even if your lab is virtual.
   
9. Stay in Contact. If you have LinkedIn connect with your PI, your graduate mentor, AND the other REU interns. You’re all in this together so connect with each other and remain in contact even after the REU. You never know these could be future classmates in grad school or future colleagues. I’ve seen it happen many times. On the subject of LinkedIn Connect with me!! Tiffany Reardon
   
10. Spell my name right! If someone mispronounces your name. Correct them immediately, in a nice way of course. I once had a student who I called “Katrina” for years. Her name was actually Karina but she never said anything. We even put Katrina on all the materials!
    
11. Last but not least, enjoy this experience!!!!
    
    
    

This list will be updated as events and locations are announced and updated.

September

CMD-IT/ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference
September 14th to September 18th
The goal of the Tapia Conferences is for undergraduates and graduate students, faculty, researchers, and professionals in computing from all backgrounds and ethnicities to celebrate diversity in computing.
Virtual for 2021

American Indian Science and Engineering Society
AISES National Conference (Phoenix, AZ)
September 23-25, 2021
The annual AISES National Conference is a one-of-a-kind, three-day event focusing on educational, professional and workforce development! Attendees include Indigenous high school and college students, educators, professionals, tribal nations and tribal enterprises, universities, corporations, and government agencies
Travel Scholarships Available deadline July 31st 2021


Grace Hopper
Celebration of Women in Computing (virtual)
GHC Virtual Conference
Travel Scholarships
In addition to the Anita Borg Foundation, a number of companies offer travel scholarships to attend Grace Hopper including Facebook, Microsoft, Google, et al.)
September 27-October 1, 2021

October

SACNAS
Sacnas’ National Diversity in STEM Conference (Virtual)
October 25- 29, 2021
Apply for a Registration Scholarship Deadline July 9th
Submit a Research Presentation Deadline July 9th

Great Minds in STEM
33rd Annual GMIS Conference
October 11-22, 2021

November

AfroTech
AfroTech World
November 8-13, 2021

Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
SHPE National Conference (Orlando FL)
November 10-14, 2021

ABRCMS
Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (Virtual)
November 10-13, 2021

Dedicated to two of my amazing students (N.D & J.J) who are destined for greatness!!

It’s officially been a year since the worldwide pandemic affected us all. In the blink of an eye everything changed. As the vaccines begin rolling out, slowly but surely we see things beginning to return back to pre-pandemic mode but large gatherings such as in person annual conferences are still on hiatus.

In my own work with students I think about upcoming the annual diversity-focused STEM conferences and the important role they play in shaping a student’s college experience. I remember it like it was yesterday I was on a bus coming back from a field trip talking to one of my first year students telling him about this amazing Black Engineering Conference that he just HAD to attend. My student was excited and the look on his face said it all, a look that said, “Wait, you mean there’s an actual conference for Black Engineers?” As one of only a few black engineering students he did a double take, yes I’ll go but on one condition, can I bring two of my friends who are also first years he asked. I wouldn’t have it any other way I told him. We got them signed up to attend the National Society of Black Engineers conference which was supposed to be in San Antonio, Texas. I heard briefly about “some flu” that was going on but paid little mind, then suddenly we got an email confirmation that NSBE would be cancelled and it seemed in the blink of an eye the world shut down.

For minority students in STEM any opportunity to be amongst other underrepresented groups in STEM seems like an impossible but magical experience. I’m here to tell you, it’s not impossible but it is indeed magical. I’ve seen the magic in my own students who come back from attending conferences such as American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), SACNAS, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Tapia Diversity in Computing Computing, Grace Hopper, Out in Stem, Great Minds in STEM, or the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS). For the time being many of these conferences are virtual. Whether this is your first ever conference or your first virtual conference I’d like to offer you some tips on how to maximize your first virtual STEM diversity conference. Truth be told I cannot wait until these conferences are in person but for the time being here are my tips to maximize these opportunities

• Your virtual set up. Since these are virtual conferences you will probably be joining from the comfort in front of your laptop. In order to fully engage in this experience be sure that you are set up so that you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. Let family members or roommates know that you are not available. Physically you might be sitting right there but you are officially “out of office.” Let them know that you’re attending a virtual conference and just simply aren’t available. In order to truly experience the virtual conference you need to make sure that you’re engaged in what’s in front of you on the screen and not what’s going on in the background. If possible wear headphones and I would suggest going to a space where you typically do not study or attend virtual classes. This will help with making this a “new experience.” Sounds weird, but I promise you the unfamiliarity factor will help with creating a simulated conference experience.
  
  
• Dress to impress from the waist up. If you were to attend a professional conference like NSBE for SHPE there is a strong likelihood that you might be that you are expected to wear professional attire. With a few exceptions this is generally the case and since it’s a simulated experience I would say go for it! Collared shirt or a nice blouse, why not? A blazer over a t-shirt works wonders. Why not even throw in a tie? Or even a bow tie? Do it! You’ll look great. Chances are the salons are now open so if you are looking for an excuse to treat yourself here it is. Whether you decide to go full glam or a little bit of mascara you’ll be surprised at the boost of confidence you’ll have. Even these minimal wardrobe and style changes can make a big difference. Also, be sure to also have either a professional background or use the blur background if your “conference” room is messy. Some students will also use their “official” college Zoom backgrounds. This is not only a great conversation piece it’s also a good go-to. Check the pre-conference guidelines to see if they have restrictions on backgrounds. They likely don’t but you never know?
  
  
• Think about why you’re attending the conference in the first place. Is it to find an internship? Attend workshops? Learn about graduate schools? Find a full-time job? Get a professional mentor? You’ll need to do some pre-work to see which companies and schools will be there. Start searching now to see who will be there and when. Create a conference schedule using your own calendar and write down what sessions you’ll want to attend and when. Never ask a company, “So what do you do exactly?” Do the pre-work by investigating them online. Look at the company directory listed on the conference website then go to that company’s website and look at the types of positions that they hire for.
  
  
• Get enough sleep. Being in front of a screen is exhausting. Make sure you’re well rested and well hydrated each day of the conference. Sometimes the conference schedule might be on a different time zone so be sure you have the right times. The last thing you want to do is miss the conference because you didn’t realize the time zone difference.
  
  
• Update your resume and LinkedIn profiles. Chances are you’ll interact with speakers, other students, and recruiters who you’ll want to connect with after the conference. Be sure that you have a LinkedIn profile and that it’s updated. For instance, if you are a transfer student and you transferred from a community college to a university over a year ago why does your LinkedIn still say your former school? (Yes, I’m talking to you. Some of my own students still do this!) Do you have an updated resume? Make sure you have one in PDF format. PDF is always better since Word is weird at times. Many conferences will invite you to submit a resume before the conference begins. If you haven’t submitted yours do so ASAP. Be sure to check your emails often since sometimes you’ might be invited before the conference to schedule an interview slot.
  
  
  Quick reminder: phone number and email on your resume!! I’ve seen a lot students forget to put their phone number. Also, QR Codes?? Not now, you’re online there’s no point right now.
  
  
• The magical part. Now as I mentioned part of the allure of these conferences is having an opportunity to be in a setting where “you’re not the only one.” There is truly strength in numbers but the trouble is as an underrepresented student in STEM you rarely get to see a visual representation of that diversity in STEM. You’ll be surprised at just how friendly people are at these conferences I’ve mentioned. Whether you’re a freshmen or a graduate student if you’ve ever been to an in person conference of any of the organizations that I’ve mentioned (SHPE, NSBE, SACNAS, Tapia, etc) you’ll recall that folks will be willing to chat with you in the elevator or maybe even willing to share an Uber ride. That’s why they call it an elevator pitch. So why are people so friendly at these conferences? The truth of the matter is that professionals involved with these organizations understand and realize the importance of giving back. Most of these professional organizations SHPE, SWE, NSBE, AISES, SACNAS, etc have national and regional boards all of which have volunteers. Some attendees are going to these conference as part of Employee Resource Groups (ERG) to recruit at the career fair so in these cases maybe their companies fund their participation, however, there are many professional conference attendees who go on their own dime. These individuals pay out of pocket because they want to “give back” and many others go simply because, like you, they look forward to that time when for once they are not just one of a few. Despite a plethora of diversity initiatives and catchy marketing initiatives we still do not have adequate numbers of BIPOC in STEM and the numbers do not lie. Let me be perfectly clear, there is no shortage of candidates. There are just too many systemic barriers and climate issues which plague higher education which is why these conferences and the connections made at them are so important.
  
• Chat with people if you’re in a breakout room do not turn off your cameras. Be present and engage. Ask if they are willing to connect with you on LinkedIn or if you can email them. Be fully present. Again even if it’s remote folks are willing and interested in helping you in your own pursuits.
  
• Follow up. When you do follow up with someone you’ve met at a virtual conference be sure to mention how you met. Don’t just simply say, “remember me we were in the chat room?” They were likely in a lot of chat rooms so remind them of how and what you were talking about or if possible mention the actual setting or specific workshop.
  
• Virtual Name Tag Be sure you have a screen name that is your actual name. If using Zoom first and last name and preferred gender pronouns are standard Zoom protocol.
  
• Test your computer BEFORE the conference begins. Download any software needed or anything you need to do to prepare. Use a desktop computer or your laptop as many of the conference event software is not accessible on Chromebooks, tablets, or mobile devices.
  
• Think ahead. Last but definitely not least realize that next year, fingers crossed, things will go back to normal and once in person activities resume order business cards AND print out your resumes you’ll need them. See upcoming Diversity in STEM Conferences for a listing of dates for the remainder of spring and fall. Last but definitely not least! Tell me about your experiences at these conferences. I want to hear about your experiences and your successes!
  
  Tiffany REUFinder@gmail.com

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The benefits of mentoring can be plentiful for young people particularly high school and middle students.  A big component of summer programs is the mentoring aspect and since not every student has access to information about summer programs REU Finder has compiled a list of summer experiences that are either free or have scholarships available.  

Just as REU Programs provide undergraduates with valuable experiences participating in summer programs can provide middle and high school students with valuable experiences, including skill development, exposure to new subjects, and opportunities to meet diverse people. It can enhance academic and personal growth, making it a worthwhile investment in their education and future.

This list will be updated regularly. 

Do you run a program for high school or middle school students? 
List your program with REU Finder! 

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Free Summer Program in Physics for High-school Girls

Are you a female high-school student interested in exploring different topics in Physics? If so, this program is for you! The Stanford Program for Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Physics (SPINWIP) is a summer learning program designed to get high-school girls excited about physics. This 3-week program is completely free to participants and will be held through video chat.  

Participants will learn about cutting-edge research in physics in fields such as quantum physics, optics and lasers, and astrophysics. They will also learn how to code in Python, and then apply their coding skills to physics-based projects. Participants will attend lectures by Stanford professors and researchers and work in small groups led by Stanford undergraduates, as well as attend college planning and career development workshops. First-generation students and students from underrepresented backgrounds in physics are particularly encouraged to apply. No prior knowledge of physics or coding is needed.

• Dates: July 8 – 26, Monday through Friday

• Time: 9am – 1pm PDT. Exact schedule will vary day-to-day

• Eligibility: Female and gender minority students in high school

  • Preference will be given to first-generation students, students from underrepresented backgrounds in physics, and rising seniors

  • Students from countries outside the US are welcome to apply

• Application: goto.stanford.edu/spinwip-2024

  • Deadline: May 1, 11:59pm PDT

• Program Information: https://physics.stanford.edu/about/equity-and-inclusion/spinwip

• Contact: spinwip_info@stanford.edu

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Portland State 

Virtual NSF REU Computational Modeling Serving Portland!

The intellectual focus of this virtual REU site is computational modeling to serve and enhance Portland (OR) and its greater region. Students will be involved in multi-disciplinary, community-based research projects and trained in computational thinking across different disciplines. In doing so, they will gain an understanding of the potential and limits of these tools and how they can serve diverse communities.

Portland State University (PSU), with its NSF-funded Portland Institute for Computational Science (PICS), is ideally suited for this REU site as it has developed a reputation as a national model for urban universities that enhance their region by working with partners to solve problems. The activities of this REU Site will involve a 2-week training followed by an 8-week research project completed under a faculty mentor’s guidance and with the involvement of a community partner.

High school graduates who have been accepted at an undergraduate institution but who have not yet started their undergraduate study are also eligible to participate.

Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents

Deadline to Apply: March 31,  2024
Apply

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UC San Diego Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Researchers at UC San Diego are combining biological control with 3D printing to engineer living surfaces, while examining the ethical, legal, and social implications. 4-6 students will be selected for a paid 6-10 week summer research experience followed by continued engagement through the school year. Students will receive hands-on experience with research and scientific communication and will gain exposure to scientific careers in academia and industry. Interns will be paired with graduate students, meet regularly with faculty advisors, join weekly lab meetings, and present their work as a poster at a national conference. 

High school students that are 17+ are also eligible to apply
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: March 24,  2024
Apply

Native American students from Southern California and students attending California State University San Marcos or other primarily undergraduate institutions are encouraged to apply.

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University of Massachusetts Amherst
Summer research experience for undergraduate and high school students

This REU program is looking for passionate undergraduate and high school students to participate in the NSF project this summer. The students can choose one of the following tasks: 1) numerical simulation, particularly the SPICE modeling of the circuits. 2) electrical testing of systems built on printed circuit boards (PCBs). 3) software implementation of neural networks to process sensor signals. The research will enrich each student’s summer experience and deepen their understanding of electrical and computer engineering

Ideal candidate have:
programming skills (Python, Java, or C++)
  Hands-on experience in engineering (e.g., breadboard, PCB construction and testing)
  Passion for electrical and computer engineering

 Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: March 27,  2024
Apply

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Envision Career & Leadership

Since 1985, Envision’s immersive career exploration and leadership development programs have inspired more than 800,000 students. Located at top college campuses across the country, Envision programs are taught by subject matter experts and built on modern, 21st-century learning principles. From performing a surgery using virtual reality, to conducting a mock trial in an actual courtroom, to learning how to create a grassroots organization to affect positive change, Envision programs provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that students call “amazing” and parents call “transformational.”

Programs are available for middle schoolers and high schoolers and range from Medicine, Engineering, STEM, and Mock Trial. Programs are offered nationally at top-tier universities such as UCLA, Tufts University, UC Berkeley, and St. John’s University just to name a few..  Elementary Middle School and College. 

The program offers scholarships please check the website for waivers/scholarships
https://www.envisionexperience.com/scholarships

For those not applying for scholarships deadlines vary.  Deadline for Scholarships is January 31, 2024
Apply

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Science Accelerating Girls’ Engagement (SAGE)
Hosted by professional leaders who share their passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), SAGE builds community, fosters innovation, and sets students on a path to exciting careers, like those they’ll learn about at the Department of Energy’s National Laboratories.

SAGE Offers a number of free campus for high school students including 

 

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AI For All at Princeton
Levels: 10th grade at the time of application and going into 11th grade in Fall 2024

• Live in the United States. Students who are US citizens but live and attend school abroad will not be considered.
• Meet at least one of the socioeconomic conditions below:
  • Combined household income does not exceed $60,000.
  • Your family income or circumstances qualify you to receive free or reduced-price lunch in your high school.
  • Your family income or circumstances qualify you to receive an SAT or ACT fee waiver.

Deadline to Apply: AI4ALL application will open in February. Application deadline TBA.
Apply

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. 
 U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Juniors in high school 

Financial Aid
Summer Academy for Math & Science (SAMS) utilizes a holistic application review and admissions process, looking at the full application and selecting program participants based on a combination of factors. Because we are a fully funded, merit-based program for participants, demonstration of financial need is one of these factors. There is no option for participants to pay out of pocket tuition fees for this program, and financial documentation is required for application submission.

Deadline to Apply: March 1, 2024
Apply 

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National Institute of Health

Full time summer full-time research positions, Research groups are located on several different NIH campuses, including the main campus in Bethesda, 

HS-SIP cohort programs

• the NIH IRP and the mission of each Institute and Centers
• the various NIH campuses and the specific focus of the work performed there

To apply for the NIH HS-SIP, and HS-SIP cohort programs, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. In addition, you must:

• Be 17 years of age or older on June 15, 2024.
• Be enrolled in high school as a junior or senior when you submit your application. U.S. citizens may apply if they are enrolled at least half-time in high school. U.S. permanent residents must be enrolled in a high school in the U.S. to be eligible.
  Deadline to Apply:  February 16, 2024 at noon ET.
  Apply

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The California State Summer School for the Arts is a rigorous, preprofessional, month-long training program in the visual and performing arts, creative writing, animation, and film for talented artists of high school age. CSSSA provides a supportive environment in which students hone acquired skills and explore new techniques and ideas for an intense and exciting learning experience.

The school was created by the California Legislature and held its first session in 1987. Its purpose is to provide a training ground for future artists who wish to pursue careers in the arts and entertainment industries in California. California residents enrolled in grades nine through twelve may apply to attend CSSSA. 

FINANCIAL AID

California State Summer School for the Arts provides financial aid to students based on demonstrated financial need. All CA State residents with financial need are highly encouraged to apply. CSSSA is expecting that 50% percent of students enrolled in the 2024 summer session will receive financial aid. Full and partial tuition scholarships are available.

CSSSA’s policy is that no student from California is denied entry to the program due to their inability to cover the tuition costs. To qualify for financial aid, CA applicants must complete the online financial aid form, which is included in the online application for the upcoming summer session. This form is completed by a parent or guardian. A request for financial aid does not affect a student’s chances of being invited to the program. All CA residents are encouraged to apply if the tuition cost is prohibitive to attend.

Because CSSSA is funded by CA taxpayers, only CA residents and first-time California attendees are eligible to receive financial aid. A parent or guardian must include copies of their most recent, or prior year tax documents. Undocumented applicants may email CSSSA for further instruction

https://www.csssa.ca.gov/

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The Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS) enrolls over 90 local high school students and seeks to support them in preparing for admission to selective and highly selective colleges and universities.  PAYS scholars engage in a thought-provoking combination of courses, cultural events, workshops, projects and field trips during the intensive 4-week, residential program as well as throughout the academic year.  PAYS serves rising sophomores through rising seniors from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education—students who are first in their family to attend college and/or  from low income families.

Continue reading “Summer Programs for High School Students (and Middle School)” →

Is getting paid research on your list of goals for the new year? If so, get started by applying to these REU programs with upcoming deadlines

US DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY SULI PROGRAM

Summer internships at the DOE Labs includingAmes Lab, Argonne National Lab, Brookhaven National Lab, Fermi National Lab, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab,Oak Ridge National Lab,Pacific Northwest National Lab, Princeton Plasma Physics Lab, Stanford Linear Accelerator Lab, Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility
Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors and Recent graduates
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 12, 2021
Apply

US DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Community College Institute Program
The Community College Internship (CCI) program seeks to encourage community college students to enter technical careers relevant to the DOE mission by providing technical training experiences at the DOE laboratories. Selected students participate as interns appointed at one of 16 participating DOE laboratories. They work on technologies or instrumentation projects or major research facilities supporting DOE’s mission, under the guidance of laboratory staff scientists or engineers.
Deadline to Apply: January 12, 2021
Apply

UC SAN DIEGO DESIGNING FOR SAFETY & SAFETY BY DESIGN

Program Description: The overarching goal of this NSF REU Site is to immerse students in a meaningful and highly interdisciplinary research environment within the structural engineering domain and to teach them that design does not end with construction. Instead, designing for safety embodies: quantifying potential load conditions, damage mechanics, and uncertainties; monitoring for anomalies during operations; processing this information through cyber-modeling via digital surrogates; and translating the information to actionable knowledge for improving current and future system designs. This REU Site will recruit and train 12 diverse U.S. scholars for eight weeks each summer, recruited from across the nation with emphasis on broadening the participation of underrepresented minority, women, and economically-disadvantaged students, to conduct research alongside six professors and their graduate students.

Levels: Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors, and non graduating seniors
Minimum GPA: 3.3
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline: January 15, 2021
Apply

PRINCETON
QUANTUM INTERN WITH IBM AND PRINCETON

“In 2019, IBM Quantum and Princeton University launched the QURIP program, during which 10 students from educational institutions across the United States spent the summer focused on theoretical and experimental research in quantum computing.”

Interns will spend the first part of the experience working at Princeton University on a research project in either quantum materials, condensed matter physics, atomic physics, quantum information science, quantum algorithms, and quantum architecture. For the second part students will apply their research as working as an IBM intern.

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors & Seniors.
Citizen US Citizen & Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: not specified
Deadline to Apply: January 15, 2021
Apply

SENS RESEARCH FOUNDATION SUMMER SCHOLARS PROGRAM 

The SRF Summer Scholars Program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to conduct biomedical research to combat diseases of aging, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s Disease. Under the guidance of a scientific mentor, each Summer Scholar is responsible for his or her own research project in such areas as genetic engineering and stem cell research. The Summer Scholars Program emphasizes development of both laboratory and communication skills to develop well-rounded future scientists, healthcare professionals, and policy makers. Students participating in the program will hone their writing skills via periodic reports, which are designed to emulate text scientists commonly must produce. At the end of the summer, students will have the opportunity to put all of their newly developed communication skills into practice at a student symposium

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors,  Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents and International students on a case-by-case basis.

Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Deadlines to Apply: January 15, 2021
Apply

CARNEGIE MELLON

PASSIONATE ABOUT ROBOTICS & AI?

“Carnegie Mellon’s Robotics Institute Summer Scholars provides funded, high-quality undergraduate research experiences to propel your academic future. Conduct research in robotics and artificial intelligence with pioneers defining the field! 

Join us for a summer of research, innovation, and discovery.

Quick Dates and Information

• Applications accepted November 1, 2020 to January 15, 2021 at 12 noon EST
• The program runs from June 1 to August 6, 2021
• Apply at https://riss.ri.cmu.edu/apply/ 
• Scholarships for both U.S. and International Undergraduate Students Available
• Hosted by the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh
• Scholarships fund your exploration. 

We believe every student should have the opportunity to explore research – that’s why RISS doesn’t let financial barriers hinder you from participating. If you are passionate about robotics, we’re here for you. Upon selection, you’ll be eligible for numerous scholarships.  

Open New Doors
When you join us, a team of mentors and tutors are ready to back you, passing on years of knowledge & experience, and helping you at every step. The program equips you with essential skills and knowledge so you are better prepared for graduate school and industry.  You will also attend robotics talks and workshops that expand your perspective of the field. Your work over the summer will culminate in a presentation and published journal What you do here opens doors for years to come.”

Undergraduates from both US and International Institutions are eligible to apply

Deadline to Apply: January 15, 2021
Apply

COLD SPRING HARBOR

The Undergraduate Research Program (URP) at CSHL provides an opportunity for undergraduate scientists from around the world to conduct first-rate research. Students learn the scientific process, technical methods and theoretical principles, and communicate their discoveries to other scientists. Approximately 20 students come to CSHL each summer for the 10-week program, living and working in the exciting Laboratory environment.

Levels: Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Citizenship Status: Students of any country are eligible to apply.
Minimum GPA: Not specified
(However, Successful applicants generally have GPAs around 3.5 or higher in their science and math courses
Deadline to Apply: January 15, 2021
Apply

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Center for Neurotechnology REU

The CNT at the University of Washington will sponsor a 10-week Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) on the Seattle campus during the summer.  This program provides undergraduate students with opportunities to work on research projects with scientists and to take part in workshop training sessions in ethics, communications, and scientific presentation skills designed to provide the undergraduate scientist with a solid foundation for graduate study.

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and non-graduating Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: US citizens & permanent residents
Deadline to Apply: January 15, 2021
Apply

STANFORD MEDICINE CARDIOVASCULAR INSITUTE

In this ten-week program students will work on cardiovascular research with Stanford faculty on research supported by the American Heart Association, The National Institutes of Health, and the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute. Participants will receive a stipend for their work. The program will be either in person or virtual or summer 2021.

Levels: Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents or US Citizen, Permanent Resident, or holder of one of the following visas: F-1, H1, H1B, J1, PR, TC or TN
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Deadline: January 15, 2021
Apply

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF PHILADELPHIA RESEARCH INSTITUTE

The Center for Injury Research and Prevention (CIRP) at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute hosts the Injury Science Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, a 10-week paid summer research internship opportunity for undergraduate students. CIRP is a leading multidisciplinary center engaged in collaborative cross-discipline research implementing real-world applications.

Students must be interested in pursuing a PhD

Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and non-graduating Seniors
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 16, 2021​
Apply​

MEMORIAL SLOAN KETTERING CANCER CENTER
QUANTITATIVE SCIENCES UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH EXPERIENCE (QSURE)

The QSURE internship program is designed for exceptional undergraduate students with an aptitude in quantitative sciences and an interest in cancer and population health.  Students will participate in an individual research project and receive exposure to methods in biostatistics, epidemiology and health outcomes research.

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomore, Juniors, and non-graduating Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: Be authorized to work in the US
Minimum GPA: Not specified
Deadline to Apply: January 20, 2021
Apply

STANFORD

Stanford’s Science Technology and Reconstructive Surgery (STARS) Program is a 7-week program for high The 7-week STaRS Internship is for high school and undergraduate students considering careers biomedical and biological sciences. Students must be age 16 or older at the time of the program to apply. Students under 18 will require signed parental consent forms to work in a biochemistry laboratory.  For the 2021 program the program may be virtual or in person.
Levels: High School Students, College Freshmen, College Sophomores, College Juniors, and non Graduating College Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: There are no citizenship restrictions
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Deadline to Apply: January 20, 2021
Apply

NORTH CAROLINA STATE

The FREEDM Systems Center Summer REU program offers a research opportunity to undergraduate students who are majoring in electrical and computer engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science engineering, computer science and related fields. The undergraduate student will spend 10 weeks during the summer conducting research at NC State, learning different aspects of university research, and presenting their work at symposia.

Levels: Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors & Non-graduating Seniors
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline: January 24, 2020
Apply

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

Northwestern’s Quantitative Biology Undergraduate Summer Research Program offers a virtual summer research fellowships to majoring in biology, engineering, mathematics, statistics, or physics to participate in hands-on laboratory or computational research that applies mathematical concepts and methodology to understanding mechanisms in biology.

The majority of projects will use coding languages including MATLAB and Python.
Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores & Juniors
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 25, 2021
Apply

DUKE UNIVERSITY (NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS RESEARCH)

“Students participate in a 10-week summer program combining research experience, lectures, and social activities. Students applying to this program have a choice of indicating their preference to work in one of two research components: (1) nuclear and particle physics at TUNL or (2) high-energy particle physics with the Duke High-Energy Physics (HEP) group. Students who are selected to work with the Duke High-Energy Physics program will spend about 6 weeks of the 10-week summer program at CERN. The REU students will conduct research under the supervision of faculty from the TUNL consortium universities: Duke University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Each student is fully integrated into a research group and works closely with graduate students, postdocs and other undergraduate students in the group and has opportunities to interact with other groups at TUNL and the High-Energy Physics group at Duke. The students are assigned well-defined projects that are often part of a larger research project or program.”

Levels: Sophomores, Juniors, and non-graduating Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Deadline to Apply: January 25, 2021
Apply

UC SAN DIEGO SUMMER TRAINING ACADEMY FOR RESEARCH SUCCESS (STARS)

The University of California at San Diego Summer Training Academy for Research Success (STARS) program is an eight week summer research academy for community college students, undergraduate students, recent college graduates, and masters students. STARS offers student participants a rigorous research opportunity with esteemed UC San Diego faculty, informative transfer and graduate school preparation workshops, and educational, cultural, and social activities in sunny San Diego.

Levels: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and non-graduating seniors
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Citizenship Requirements: AB 540 or DACA students are eligible or US Citizens or Permanent Residents.

Deadline: January 27, 2021
Apply

UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT HILO

The Pacific Internship Programs for Exploring Science (PIPES) is an undergraduate internship program housed within the Office of Research & Community Partnerships at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. Our goals are to (1) foster a community committed to the stewardship of our natural resources in the Pacific and (2) work with a team of host mentors to provide interns with a transformative hands-on learning experience.

Applicants from students interested in pursuing a career related to conservation research, natural resource management and environmental education are strongly encouraged to apply.

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. 

Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: 2.0
Deadline to Apply: January 30, 2021
Apply

CORNELL UNIVERSITY

Molecular Biology and Genetics of Cell Signaling
This is a ten week summer program for ten students, focusing on diversity and funded as an NSF REU site. Each student does an intensive research project in one of the two dozen labs associated with the program. The research topics of these labs span molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, development, and structural biology. Students give poster and oral presentations at the end. The MBG REU Program has weekly meetings with discussions by faculty to give overviews of their research, with descriptions of the grad school application process, and with faculty critiques of students’ drafts of their posters and slides. Also included are several social activities with peer mentors who are current PhD students here.

Levels: Rising Sophomores, Juniors, and non-graduating Seniors
Minimum GPA: 3
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline: January 31, 2021
Apply

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) offer the potential for significant improvements in the mobility, safety, accessibility, and sustainability of transportation systems. As rapid advances occur in the automotive industry, there are a myriad of associated social consequences that will result from large-scale deployment. However, these consequences are not well understood, and there is an imminent need to train students in sociomobility -an area of research at the intersection of engineering and the social sciences. Michigan State University invites undergraduate students to apply to a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site in sociomobility, which will train future thought leaders for careers that are focused on the development of innovative, multidisciplinary solutions that jointly address both the technical and societal aspects of autonomous vehicles (AVs).

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and non-graduating Seniors
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2021
Apply

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

The purpose of SPUR is to provide undergraduate students with an intensive 10-week research experience under the mentorship of a University of Utah faculty member. The program provides opportunities to gain research experience in a variety disciplines.

Levels: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors & Non-Graduating Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens, Permanent Residents, Dreamers and DACA students
Minimum GPA: Not specified
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2021
Apply

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 

“The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program in Systematics and
Evolutionary Biology is funded by the National Science Foundation and has been in
place for over 25 years. The program brings approximately eight students to the
American Museum of Natural History in New York City each summer for a ten-week
experience working with our curators, faculty, and post-doctoral fellows. Research
projects span diverse fields of comparative biology including paleontology, genomics,
population biology, conservation biology and phylogenetics and taxonomy. Students
have access to the Museum’s immense natural history collections as well as state-of-the art equipment for advanced imaging (CT scanner, SEM, TEM) and genomics (Sanger
and pyrosequencing platforms). “

Levels: Sophomores & Juniors
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2021
Apply

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT BERKELEY

SUPERB participants spend nine weeks at UC Berkeley during the summer working on exciting ongoing research projects focused on Big Data with EECS faculty mentors and graduate students. Students who participate in this research apprenticeship explore options for graduate study, gain exposure to a large research-oriented department, and are motivated to pursue graduate study.

Levels: Sophomores & above
Minimum GPA: 3
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2021
Apply

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT BERKELEY

Transfer-to-Excellence Research Experiences for Undergraduates (TTE REU), a competitive merit-based program, seeks to inspire California community college students through research at UC Berkeley so that they will ultimately transfer and complete their Bachelor’s degree in science and engineering. The TTE REU program is a residential program providing nine-weeks of hands-on research experiences in the laboratories of UC Berkeley professors. This program is jointly funded by an NSF Site award and the Center for E3S. 

This program is limited to students attending a community college that plan to apply for transfer admission to a baccalaureate program in science or engineering.

GPA: 3.25+ GPA in science, engineering, & math courses
Citizenship Requirements:  U.S citizen, national, or permanent residents 

Applicants must be enrolled at a California community college; Completed 2 Calculus courses & 3 Science or Engineering courses  by June 12 2021. Plan to return to a California community college in Fall 2021.
Deadline to Apply January 31, 2021
Apply

HARVARD UNIVERSITY

The Summer Institute in Biomedical Informatics (SIBMI), now entering its 16th year, is for undergraduates with quantitative interests and skills who aspire to contribute to translational advances in biomedicine with a future PhD or research-oriented MD or MD/PhD

Levels: Rising Juniors & Seniors
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Citizenship Requirements:  U.S. Citizen or permanent residents only
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2020
Apply

RUTGERS

The DIMACS REU program combines many associated subprograms, which are administered together and run concurrently as a single program. The programs support interdisciplinary projects focused around computer science and mathematics, and are mentored by Rutgers faculty. Project descriptions have included topics in computer science, mathematics, statistics, biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as applications to national security and critical intelligence. Located at Rutgers University, DIMACS facilitates research, education, and outreach in discrete mathematics, computer science theory, algorithms, mathematical and statistical methods, and their applications. A select group of students will spend 2 weeks in Prague as part of the international program component. 

Levels: Juniors
Citizenship Requirements” US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: Not Specified
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2021
Apply

VIRGINIA TECH & COLORADO STATE

Interested in Biology and Computer Science? This REU combines both.  Work with leading researchers in bioinformatics, computational biology, mathematical modeling and synthetic biology. Students will spend half of their summer at Colorado State and then continue to do research at Virginia Tech. Students will learn  about experimental yeast genetics, computational modeling, and network biology algorithms

Students majoring in computer science, biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, and related areas are encouraged to apply.

Levels: Sophomores, Juniors & Non-graduating Seniors
Citizenship Requirements: US Citizens & Permanent Residents
Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2021
Apply

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Much research has shown that GRE scores alone do not adequately predict one’s potential to succeed in graduate programs. Placing a strong emphasis on GRE scores alone fails to consider the inequities of standardized tests. Furthermore, the cost for GRE test preparation courses is not universally accessible particularly to low income, women and minority students.  A number of universities have recognized the flaws of standardized tests and have advocated for programs to adopt a more holistic review that places less of an emphasis on test scores.

In 2017 the University of Michigan’s biomedical sciences graduate program decided to no longer require applicants to submit GRE scores. This forward thinking decision would spawn a movement for more schools to reconsider GRE scores as a requirement for admission.  #GRExit became an opportunity to disclose the bias that the GRE scores elicit against underrepresented groups (women, minorities, first generation college students and low-income students). Then COVID-19 happened and all universities were forced to consider whether or not GRE Scores (particularly in these unprecedented times) were really all that important… 

As someone who works with undergraduates in engineering who are preparing for graduate schools I will tell you something that I find myself telling students every single day: Every aspect of our lives has been impacted by COVID so it’s not realistic to think that your application will not have some impact by COVID.  Whether it’s making the decision to take a course for a letter grade or deciding not taking the GRE.  One student challenged this notion and said, “Not really my life hasn’t been affected by COVID at all. My parents are still employed and I tend to stay home a lot anyway.” “Really? Are we not having this conversation over Zoom? Are you not taking all of your lab classes online?”  

In August MIT decided that in their school of Engineering the following programs would not accept GRE scores for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle:   Aeronautics and Astronautics, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Science and Engineering, and Medical Engineering and Medical Sciences.

A consortium of Computer Sciences PhD programs including UC Berkeley’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences announced that GRE scores will not be part of the review process even if they have already been submitted. This National Sciences Foundation consortium the FLIP Alliance ((Diversifying Future Leadership in the Professoriate) includes 11 schools all of which has agreed to waive the GRE requirement for their Computer Sciences Programs 2021 admissions cycle.

FLIP Alliance Schools and Computer Science PhD Deadlines:

• Carnegie Mellon University (December 10)
• Cornell University (December 15)
• Georgia Tech (December 15)
• Harvard University (December 15)
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (December 15)
• Princeton University (December 15)
• Stanford University  (December 1)
• University of California at Berkeley (December 8)
• University of Texas (December 1)
• University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (December 15)
• University of Washington (December 15)

Like many things have been changed as a result of COVID-19 this may be something that schools will forego long after a vaccine is approved and we’re physically back in the classroom.

Although Halloween is just around the corner, be sure to avoid these scary and cryptic things you might be doing to your resume or CV.  Undergraduates, here is a short list of things you don’t want to do!

Only listing your GPA if it’s a 3.5 or above.  This is ridiculous advice that’s often given to undergraduates.  I’ve seen many 3.0 student’s who think they shouldn’t put their resume because it’s not high enough.  First off, if you’re a STEM major you should realize that you likely have a heavy course load and shouldn’t be so hard on yourself. If you decide not to include your GPA then be sure to speak confidently if it comes up. If you’re a first year student without a GPA then include your high school gpa or your community college transfer gpa. Just be sure to include that these are from a prior school.

Scary or Cryptic? 
Scary because you should know that your GPA does not define your interest nor your aptitude.  

Failing to list jobs and opportunities you acquired that were impacted by COVID.
Maybe you got an internship last summer but it was cancelled due to COVID. Maybe you got an REU last summer. Why are you not listing this??? You likely went through interview after interview, got the job offer, even got housing arranged and then suddenly then suddenly you got the call that your internship was cancelled due to COVID. Maybe you were all set to work in a lab but the lab was closed so you couldn’t participate. This is through no fault of yours.  You need to include this!

Scary or Cryptic? 
Cryptic because they will have no idea that you received a job or research internship offer this past summer unless you tell them. Even it it didn’t happen it does show that you have aptitude.

Not listing your professor and/or lab’s name when listing research experience.  I see this a lot and it doesn’t make sense. Why wouldn’t you include your professor’s name?  Here’s an example of how you might list your lab position:
Name of School, Undergraduate Researcher, Name of Lab
Advisor: Your PI or Faculty Adviser, Project Area or Research Area:
then list your contributions and a description of the project. 

Scary or Cryptic?  
Cryptic If you interned at Apple would you list it as a Tech Company in Cupertino?

Not spelling out acronyms Sometimes acronyms could have double meanings.  If you live in Los Angeles and put down USC that means University of Southern California but if you live on the East Coast USC means University of Southern Carolina.  Also, DOE could mean Department of Energy or Department of Education.  

Scary or Cryptic?  
Cryptic. Similarly, what if you are listing an award from ACM.  Is that Association of Computing Machinery or American Country Music Award?
Quick Sidebar: If you won an ACM award (any kind) why aren’t you sharing your story??  

Putting photos on your resume.  It’s generally not customary to include a photo on your resume. It’s wasted space that you could use for listing out credentials that you want to highlight. Save the photos for LinkedIn.  

Scary or Cryptic?  Likely cryptic if it’s an old photo. Make sure your LinkedIn photo actually looks like you.  If you’re still using your senior portrait from high school and you’re now a senior in college you might want to update your LinkedIn photo

Putting company logos all over your resume. Your resume should be text not logos.  Although you might be excited that you had an internship at a FAANG company (Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, Alphabet (google) it looks really bad to have a resume covered with logos.

Scary or Cryptic? You want your resume to look like a resume not a Black Friday ad we’ll call this one scary because think about what you do with those Black Friday ads that come in the mail. Don’t give them any reason to put your resume in the recycle bin   

Putting a QR Code on your resume If I’m emailing you a resume then a QR is pointless and if you’re handing someone a resume why would you ask them to look elsewhere. 

Scary or Cryptic? Cryptic because I don’t understand why one would put a QR code     

Not including relevant coursework that is in progress and planned.  Think of it this way, you’re likely applying for summer internships for next summer.  With this in mind, remember it will be helpful to include classes that you are taking now AND classes that you plan to take this fall.  Maybe the REU wants someone who has a year or programming experience or year of chemistry by the time the internship happens. Guess what? If you list that then they’ll know you have this.
  
Scary or Cryptic?
This one’s both Cryptic and Scary.  Cryptic because no one will know that you have this coursework unless you tell them and scary because you might be missing out on an opportunity if you don’t include coursework.

Now once you’ve made sure that you don’t have any of these scary or cryptic resume flaws your resume will be as sweet as candy. Start applying now for summer positions now and you’ll see the opportunities come knocking on your door just like trick or treaters.

Everyday on the first day of class I start off by making eye contact with a student sitting in the back of the class and say, “You know my brother works at Stubhub, he often gets free concert tickets. He’s got tickets to the upcoming Beyonce concert.  By any chance, are you a Beyonce fan?”  An excited student will eagerly nod and say yes!!  I’ll then stay in character and say, “Great. Okay, so I have to let him know exactly where you want to sit in order for him to get the tickets. Where exactly would you like to sit?” Almost on cue the student will say, “Front row, as close as possible.”  In a boisterous tone I’ll say, “Really? Front Row!! You want to sit in the Front Row!  Well, why aren’t you sitting in the front row right now??” The other students will laugh along with their classmates and I’ll then proceed to tell them the fact that students who sit in the line of sight of their professors always do better.  It’s not always Beyonce, one year it was K-Pop, another year it was Guns N’Roses because a student’s phone went off and her ringtone happened to be “Sweet Child O’Mine.” 

Regardless of the artist, the message is the same. Students need to sit in front. Now in a pandemic and with the lecture halls replaced with Zoom boxes I still did the Beyonce bit this year.  Students still loved it and understood why it’s so important to show up and sit in front. I would argue it’s even more important now.  Sitting in front it’s different now. At the very least it’s making sure your camera is on. It’s making sure your Zoom name is accurately placed on the box not Tim’s “iphone” or your email address. For students right now Zoom etiquette is as essential as wearing a face mask. 

Countless studies continue to show that students who sit in the line of sight will do better.  I have read countless letters of recommendation for graduate school and for scholarships where professors have mentioned specifically that the student that they are recommending is always sitting in the front and always engaged.  Even the mere fact that the professor can see you has a halo effect.  

Ways to Sit in Front When You’re Online!

Good Posture Plays A Role
So how do you sit in front when you’re sitting in front of your computer screen?  Are you lying in bed in pajamas? Are you slouching?  Besides giving the wrong impression this is also an ergonomic faux pas. Be sure to have good posture, you’ll look better and you’ll feel better. 

Avoid The Fisheye Lens Approach.
Not only does it look foolish, it will probably strain your eyesight. Maintain good proximity from the screen and ideally viewers will see your head and your shoulders. 
 

Find Your Voice
If needed, invest in wireless headphones that include a microphone.  The only thing worse than speaking too low is speaking too LOUD.  You don’t want to be that person that sounds muffled. Speak clearly and confidently.  Even if you’re nervous chances are everyone else is to.  Practice speaking into the camera by yourself. Use your phone or video on your computer.  Record yourself if you have to.  You might notice that you use a lot of filler words such as “um” and “like”  if you’re from California like I am .  If you find yourself doing that, continue recording.  I guarantee that those Um’s and Ah’s will be gone like yesterday’s news.   

Use the Hand Raise Option on Zoom  
It’s inevitable that people will find themselves talking over each other during Zoom calls.  Be respectful and don’t be the person that talks over everyone.  If you’re already starting classes it’s likely that you’ve noticed that person.  Don’t be that person.  

Let Others Find their Voice, Too

When you’re not speaking put yourself mute on. This will help minimize background noise so that everyone can hear what the professor is saying.  Just be sure to take yourself off mute. 
Now get ready to be like Beyonce and “Run The World.”