<p>Really want to get into an REU next summer (2014), here are my basic information:</p>
<p>Female, in an okay public school (UVA), overall GPA:3.66, Math GPA:3.77, I am a junior now, and has taken advanced linear algebra, advanced real analysis, topology, differential geometry and all basic math stuff(like calculus, survey of algebra,probability etc). </p>
<p>Also have one-year research experience, but in a bio-statistics program.
So what are my chanced to get into an REU? and how many programs should I apply?
I know REU is very competitive, so really appreciate any advice.</p>
<p>UVa is not an “okay public school,” it is an excellent public university.</p>
<p>Also, just like we can’t compute your chances of getting into graduate school, we can’t compute your chances of getting an REU. Although you are a competitive applicant for an REU, there are hundreds (thousands, even) of students with profiles similar to yours competing for REU spots. Since all students competing for a slot in an REU tend to have good grades and are sophomores or juniors, what will set you apart is the essay you write about why you want to go to the REU.</p>
<p>I think you should apply to as many REUs as have interesting research going on over the summer that you may want to do. I’d say at least 5-7. I know people who have applied to like 15. It’s like a grad school or internship search.</p>
<p>Best of luck. I never found any with REUs, I can tell you that.
2 pieces of advice: cast a broad net. The programs are ultra-competitive, and most will reject you even though you are an excellent applicant. And make backup plans about a productive use of your summer (me, I just stayed on as an undergrad researcher at my university and received a departmental stipend). But don’t give up hope! As a female in a technical field with fine credentials, you’ve got a lot of doors open to you. </p>
<p>Also, maybe tell us- an REU in what? You didn’t name the subject.</p>