Undergrads in the USA interested in research, have you heard about the @NSF #REU program? These are *paid* internships with active research participation. I had no idea what REUs were when I applied for mine and I want to spread the word. #AcademicTwitter Thread: (1/n)

Research Experiences for Undergraduates are #internships funded by the NSF "to expand student participation in all kinds of research." They are ~10 wks long + come with a generous stipend (mine included room, board, + travel as well), extra helpful for #LowIncome students (2/n)

My experience as an REU intern at @RMBLGothic in 2016 transformed my view of science. @jillthanderson was an outstanding mentor and I learned a tremendous amount in ten weeks. And beyond the research, I found a sense of community among peers and scientists. (3/n)

As a #FirstGen student coming from a #PUI, I was used to making my own way when it came to #botany. At RMBL, I was surrounded by like-minded people: at the breakfast table, in the field, and at home with my roommate who I'm still friends with today (Hi, @caparisek!) (4/8)

Where do you find an REU? I found mine at the @IowaStateU job board: https://www.nrem.iastate.edu/nrem-job-board  Many are posted to ECOLOG listserv. There's a list of REU sites (like @RMBLGothic) at the NSF, but this doesn't include supplemental positions like mine. https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.jsp (5/8)

REUs are competitive! That's why you need to know about them now, even though summer is a long way off. If you're interested in an REU, try to get research in your home institution. This can be a frustrating set up where you need experience to get experience, though. (6/8)

My DMs are open if you'd like to hear more or want to brainstorm how to get started in research. You can also ask your advisor or favorite STEM professor for advice. (7/8)

Please RT and share with undergrads you know--don't assume that they've heard about REUs (or any other opportunity) before! (8/8)