Baruch Discrete Math Group

In this program, undergraduates do research work in combinatorics, discrete probability, theoretical computer science, and related topics. The program runs for eight weeks during the summer in NYC. During this period, each participant works towards solving a problem and possibly publishing a paper. Each participant is closely mentored by a professor who is an active researcher and has mentoring experience. We are based in the math department of CUNY's Baruch College, located at the heart of Manhattan.

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The program is organized by Adam Sheffer and Pablo Soberón. In addition to intensive research work, the program includes many events: meetings with mathematicians, social events, mathematical talks, interactions with other REUs, a panel with people who chose various careers after studying math, and much more.

Project examples. No previous familiarity with these topics is required. A few project examples:

• An example of a project by Eric Ramos. 

• An example of a project by Kira.

• An example of a project by Adam (and another project about plane graphs).

• Matt will work on probability questions related to his recent papers on Activated Random Walk and the Frog Model.

• An example of a project of Eric Rowland. 

• An inspiring article that is at the heart of our program (see also recorded talk). 

• These are just examples. We offer many additional projects to the participants. See also the results produced in previous years.

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Additional details. For 2025, the dates are June 9th - Aug 1st. Each participant will be provided with a stipend of $5,600, housing in Manhattan, and travel support. 

Most participants work on their own individual project, some work in pairs, and some or may choose to work on a second group project. Each participant receives a fully equipped cubicle in the math department, close to the offices of the mentors.

Beyond doing research work, the participants will get trained in giving math talks, writing rigorous proofs, applying to graduate school, and more. After the program ends, we keep supporting the participants for many years, as they continue in their mathematical pursuits. 

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While we are serious about our research, we also aim create a supportive and accepting community of people who are enthusiastic about mathematics – people who would continue to support and encourage each other in future years. We dedicate time to discuss topics such as having a healthy and fulfilling mathematical careers, how to support the community around you, and so on. We are the only REU program with emotional support chickens.

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The program ends at the NYC Summer Math Day, where participants present posters to students from other nearby math programs. (Also organized by Jane Street Capital.) In the months after the program, most participants attend conferences to present their results.

Applying to the REU. We look for undergraduates who are motivated to work hard on an open mathematical problem, and can also work independently between meetings with the mentors. 

To be eligible, your college graduation date must be after the end of the REU. We have funding for up to three international students, while the other participants should be US citizens or permanent residents. We may take additional international students who have funding from an institute, fellowship, or another official source. Using your own money is not permitted. We cannot help international students with obtaining a visa to the US. 
 

Applications are submitted through www.mathprograms.org. An application includes at least one reference letter, a CV (or resume), a cover letter, a transcript, and any additional information you wish to add. You may submit more than one reference letter. If you participated in a previous research project, please include a letter from your mentor in that program. Transcript do not need to be official. Under additional information, you can add past research projects, jokes, and/or any other relevant information. Please make sure to indicate if you are a US citizen or a permanent resident.

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The applications deadline is February 14th. We follow the REU consortium's uniform deadline - applicants will not be required to accept or decline an offer before March 8th.  There are usually multiple rounds of offers - not getting an offer by March 9th does not mean anything.

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Cover letter and personal statement: Do whatever you want! You can include a personal statement in the cover letter, as a separate file, or not at all. You can write about why this program is for you, or not. You can write about your personal interests and experiences, or not. You can write about difficulties you experienced in your math community or elsewhere. Don't write when there's nothing you wish to say. You can also do something completely different. We once received a pdf with pictures of mathematicians in sunglasses, and that's good. It certainly got our attention :)

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REU participants must be vaccinated and follow the CUNY Covid regulations.

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You are very welcome to contact Adam Sheffer at adamsh@gmail.com for any questions, clarifications, or issues. 

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More links:​

• Quanta article about a result from the REU.

• Eric Rowland makes surprisingly popular YouTube videos about advanced math.

• Matt Junge does math with prison inmates. ​