Directed Reading Program

When? Where? More information can be found on the page for the current semester (Fall 2024).

What is it? The Directed Reading Program (DRP) in the UW Madison Department of Mathematics pairs undergraduate students with graduate mentors for semester-long independent studies. During the semester, the student will work through a mathematical text and meet weekly to discuss it with their mentor. The original DRP was started by graduate students at the University of Chicago over a decade ago, and has had immense success. It has since spread to many other math departments who are members of the DRP Network.

Why be a student?

Learn about exciting math from outside the mainstream curriculum!
Prepare for future reading and research, including REUs!
Meet other students interested in math!

Why be a mentor?

Practice your mentorship skills!
It strengthens our math community!
Solidify your knowledge in a subject!

Current Organizers: Ivan Aidun, Allison Byars, Jake Fiedler, John Spoerl

Requirements

At least one hour per week spent in a mentor/mentee setting. Students spend about two hours a week on individual study, outside of mentor/mentee meetings. At the end, students give a 10-12 minute presentation at the end of the semester introducing their topic.

How to apply

Application links can be found on the page for the current semester (Fall 2024). For project ideas, you may find it helpful to view the past semesters below.