Directed Reading Program
University of Delaware
University of Delaware
DRP's are mathematics mentorship programs, pairing undergraduate students with graduate student mentors for a semester-long reading project. The goal of this program is to provide a relaxed, informal, and inclusive introduction to some new mathematics, and offer you a chance to learn more about what it's like to be a grad student in mathematics.
In keeping with that goal, there are no grades and no credits involved. However, it is expected that you will meet with your mentor once per week for about an hour, and spend 3-4 hours per week reading on your own.
If you are considering a major in math, you will have the opportunity to explore what math looks like beyond, for example, calculus. You might be surprised by how many different topics there are after calculus! (Hint: there's a ton.)
If you are considering applying to grad school in math, participating in a DRP can look great on a resume/CV. You'll also work one-on-one with a current grad student and be able to get a feel for what their day-to-day life is like!
Math can actually be a lot of fun! If you've only ever "done math" for a class, the DRP offers a totally different approach: with your grad student mentor, you'll pick your own topic and move at your own pace.