Welcome back to a new semester!

I know with our recent cold weather summertime may not be on your mind, but the summer is the best time to take advantage of different opportunities to advance your career and earn some money! Right NOW is the time to start looking for either a summer research experience (REU) or an internship. Internships and research experiences allow you to explore the world of mathematics and statistics so that you can discover what areas you enjoy, what types of jobs you like, while also gaining experience that will make you in demand as a future employee or graduate student. I participated in a summer research experience at my own undergraduate institution working with a faculty member on their number theory research project. Even though I didn’t pursue number theory as my field of research in graduate school, I learned what it was like to participate in the research process. That experience allowed me to present at a national conference and made me competitive as an applicant to PhD programs. If you are interested in going directly to industry after graduation, then internships will help you network with possible future employers, gain work experience, and again make you competitive in your applications to jobs after graduation. For future teachers, you can look for teaching and tutoring opportunities at local schools, community colleges, or summer programs/camps. Start looking for your summer internship or research experience today! To learn more, check out the stories of our current students and alumni. Plus, check out the available resources on campus to help you apply for each program. If you are unsure where to start, talk to your faculty mentor!

Sincerely,

Judith Canner

Chair, Department of Mathematics and Statistics

Research opportunities provide a chance to expand your knowledge and gain hands-on experience directly related to your field of study. It allows you to develop new skills, strengthen your problem-solving abilities, and deepen your understanding of real-world applications. Some research opportunities come with added benefits such as; paid meals, housing or even stipends, making them educational and financially rewarding.

Internships offer valuable opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, allowing you to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world professional settings. They help bridge the gap as a bridge between academic studies and the workforce, helping you develop practical expertise, build connections, and explore potential career paths. Additionally, some internships provide financial compensation, allowing you to earn money while gaining meaningful work experience.