Hello,

I'm currently a second-year interested in doing a mathematics REU this summer. My ultimate career goal is to pursue a graduate degree in pure mathematics. Unfortunately, I do not have any research experience at all, nor really much to show besides my classes.

I have taken a very heavy courseload each quarter and have maintained a high GPA (Two A-'s and the rest A's or A 's). For example, in the fall I took undergraduate upper division courses in mathematical logic, abstract algebra, real analysis, data structures, and a graduate algebraic topology class. I received an A or A in all of these. Unfortunately, besides taking all these classes, I'm beginning to realize I have neglected anything else math-related such as clubs, organizations, tutoring, teaching, etc.

As a result, I am finding it really hard to write a good Resume/CV, as I just don't have much to show for myself besides my transcript. I expect to have one good LoR and one ok one. Despite all my classes, I unfortunately have not made the effort I should have to connect with my professors to the extent that I should have. This is because I tend to learn best by reading a textbook as opposed to watching a lecture.

Has anyone been in a similar situation, or does anyone have any advice for me so I can make my application as competitive as possible given my current situation? Thanks!