The Biomechanical Engineering REU program is NOT all work and no play.  We think you will have a very enjoyable time getting to know the area, the faculty and fellow REU participants.  

We feel it is important that REU participants feel like they are part of a group, and not isolated in a research lab working on their project.  The faculty mentors have made the commitment to not only mentor a student, but to participate in program activities.  

The program kicks off with orientation on May 25, 2005.  This is an important time for you to become familiar with KU, the REU program logistics, the faculty and the students.  In addition to providing you with valuable resources and information, the orientation will also include activities to help you get to know mentors and participants in the program.  The orientation includes tours of the engineering building and the campus.  As part of the orientation, you will receive your KU student ID card, which will provide access to dining halls and recreational facilities.   The day also includes an outdoor picnic lunch with social/recreation time.

Also, you will be housed with students from other REU programs in biology, chemistry and pharmacology at the University of Kansas.  This is a chance get to know the broader REU community at KU, and students from all over the country.  In addition, several All-KU REU events are being planned for 2005.

Additional program social events distributed over the course of the program will likely include such  events as a group trip to a Royals baseball game in Kansas City, a team building scavenger hunt, and students versus faculty sports events, and group trips to Kansas City area sights.

Weekly seminars also provide participants with opportunities to interact with each other and the faculty.

The final Research Symposium is not just a chance to present your accomplishments over the summer, but is also social event.  The Research Symposium will be immediately followed by a farewell picnic for all participants.