Research Experiences for Undergraduates (“REUs”) are paid summer internships where students can work with faculty on research projects. These programs are funded by the National Science Foundation. The cohort of 15 students spend the summer working under the mentorship of an SMU science faculty member, receive training in research methods and professional development, and receive a stipend, room and board, and participate in social activities. As part of the NSF REU grant, SMU provides out of the classroom experiences for students including field trips, speaker symposium, hackathons, and social events.