Cycle

Many Cycle projects are conducted asynchronously, meaning that the groups meet outside of the typical Cycle schedule (Tuesday 5:20-6:15). These projects still hold the same requirements as synchronous projects with the added benefit of schedule flexibility.

The expected time commitment for Cycle is a minimum of one hour a week for both mentors and mentees. This hour is typically spent in the regular Cycle session (for synchronous groups). Snacks (usually) provided!

Some groups will elect to meet more often; particularly groups whose stated goal is to produce novel research and produce a publication will involve a larger time commitment. It is ultimately up to the discretion of the mentor how much time is expected to be put into the project within reason, usually no more than three hours per week.

We are always happy to help mentors design projects, and you don't need to have the project idea fleshed out right away! Occasionally, mentees will have their own project ideas in mind as well.

Just about any project that is math-related is acceptable! Available projects vary from year to year and depend on the mentors' interests.

Typically, we have reading projects (very similar to DRP), learning projects, coding projects, art projects, and novel research projects. Reach out early if you are looking for a specific project, and we will try to find a mentor who is interested!

There are a number of unique benefits to each program.

Cycle projects are generally classified as reading, learning, art, coding, or novel research, DRP focuses only on reading projects (i.e. working through a text).

Cycle groups have the option to meet synchronously with the rest of the groups (food usually provided) or asynchronously, while DRP mentoring is all asynchronous.

Cycle mentees are able to receive one credit hour for participation in the program, and Cycle includes additional material focused on community and professional development (e.g. a CV workshop, tea times, and an interview assignment).

Cycle mentoring groups are paired using a stable marriage algorithm after mentors and mentees meet, while DRP pairs based on topic interest.

Cycle projects are year-long and culminate in a one-day conference in the spring where mentees make posters and mentors can give talks; DRP projects last one semester and culminate in a presentation session.

Absolutely none! If you are wanting to mentor but find it too daunting to organize a research projects, we encourage you to consider mentoring a reading, learning, or art project. Check out Calculus X: Course Description (2025) and Seifert Surfaces of Knots (2025) for examples of past beginner-friendly projects!

Absolutely! We have had many mentors involved in the program during their qual courses. Generally, we recommend choosing a less intensive project if you are interested but nervous about the demands of the project.

We have had a number of successful undergraduate Cycle mentors in the past! Generally, we only allow previous Cycle mentees to serve as undergraduate mentors, but exceptions are possible.

Postdocs and faculty are also encouraged to mentor for Cycle!

In addition to the satisfaction of being a good mentor, there are a number of professional reasons to participate in Cycle.

Cycle offers a number of opportunities for desirable career experiences in addition to the valuable leadership experience that comes from participation, such as speaking at the Cycle Conference; networking with other graduate students, postdocs, and faculty; and any potential publications from novel research projects.

Additionally, we on the Cycle Committee are always happy to write letters of recommendation for our mentors for awards and applications, and mentees typically are willing to do so as well.

We are extremely grateful to all those who volunteer their time for the benefit of the math community!