📚 busy day in the life of a math major

So, you've seen a glimpse of my daily life, but what exactly is an REU, and why is it such an incredible experience for a math major like me? REU stands for Research Experiences for Undergraduates, and it's basically a summer program funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) that lets college students dive deep into a specific research topic. For me, coming from St. Lawrence University, it's been an amazing opportunity to explore a new campus like Tufts and collaborate with students from all over the US. It's not just about the academic challenge; it's about gaining real-world research skills that you just can't get in a typical classroom setting. My research project involves a lot of mathematical modeling, which means spending hours with math equations and writing code on my MacBook Pro. Those group meetings I mentioned? They're crucial for brainstorming ideas, troubleshooting problems, and presenting our progress. It can be intense, but there's nothing quite like the feeling of making a breakthrough or understanding a complex concept. It's definitely pushed my boundaries and shown me how diverse and applicable mathematics can be, especially for women in STEM who might sometimes feel outnumbered. The mentors here have been fantastic, guiding us through complex theories and helping us refine our research questions, which is a huge part of the learning curve. Of course, it's not all work and no play! One of the biggest lessons I've learned during this REU is the importance of balance. You can't be productive if you're constantly burnt out. That's why those moments of unwinding are so important. After a long day of staring at a whiteboard full of formulas or trying to debug my code, sometimes I just need to escape into Stardew Valley for a bit. And yes, as true math nerds, my group and I definitely bond over strategic board games like Catan! It’s a fun way to keep our brains sharp in a different context and build friendships with people who share similar passions. Living in a new city for the summer also means exploring local spots and enjoying the campus environment, which adds another layer of richness to the student life experience. If you're a fellow college student, especially if you're in a STEM field, I highly recommend looking into REU programs. They're competitive, but totally worth applying for. My best advice? Start early, typically in the fall or early spring semester before the summer you want to participate. Connect with your professors for guidance and letters of recommendation – they're your best advocates! Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and apply to programs that align with your interests, even if they seem intimidating. It’s an invaluable chance to explore potential career paths, build your resume, and connect with mentors and peers. This summer at Tufts has truly enriched my academic journey, proving that a day in the life of a math major can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding, and it’s an experience I’ll carry with me long after I return to my home university.