We’ll talk about recent research in representation theory and combinatorics done by and in collaboration with undergraduates in various formats (including REUs and other summer programs). On the research side, it is a chance to explain how special functions in representation theory arise as generating functions on “ice-type” lattice models and how methods from statistical mechanics allow us to draw conclusions about them. We’ll also use each example as an opportunity to talk about the various research formats and programs for undergraduates, and what the benefits, goals, and future possibilities of such formats might be as we are all acquiring new skills and new modes of delivery. For the mathematics, no prior familiarity with combinatorial representation theory is required and terms and concepts will be introduced from scratch.