McNair Lynx Head East for National Conference
Written by Sonia Valencia, Director of TRIO Student Support Services and McNair
Apr 17, 2023
Seven CU Denver McNair Scholars participated in the 24th Annual National Conference for McNair Scholars and Undergraduate Research at the University of Maryland. The group included a mix of seasoned scholars from the ’21-22 cohort who presented their research projects, and new scholars from the ’22-23 cohort who are currently developing their research proposals. Over four days, the scholars attended various workshops like “10 Commandments for Student Success” and “Strategies for Developing a Competitive Graduate School Personal Statement.” The conference emphasized the importance of wellness and offered presentations like “Self-Wellness: Me, You, and Everybody” and “Reclaim your Career and Life: I Would Rather Die Dancing Than Sitting at My Desk.” Plenary panels allowed students to hear from and converse with Graduate School Deans from various universities in the northeast. Mirakle Wright, 3rd year McNair Scholar majoring in Sociology, describes the experience as inspiring.
"Attending this conference allowed me to network with other scholars and assured me that I am not alone in my PhD journey."
- Mirakle Wright, 3rd Year McNair Scholar
The conference also emphasized the importance of networking and fellowship. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from inspiring McNair alumni who have successfully met the McNair Program’s goal: to increase the attainment of Ph.D. degrees by students from underrepresented segments of society.
"The UMD conference was a great opportunity to be exposed to other students who are passionate about research topics both related to and beyond the scope of my field, and to faculty who have earned their Ph.Ds. who can provide insight on their experiences. I am grateful to have connected with the amazing people who attended — I learned that with hard work, effort, and perseverance, the right opportunities will not pass you by."
- Dominique Harlan, 4th year McNair Scholar majoring in Ethnic Studies and Psychology
The TRIO Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, named in honor of the late NASA astronaut, is open to first-generation college students and students from backgrounds underrepresented in graduate education. The structured program supports the development of participants’ research and scientific communication skills through a paid, faculty-led summer internship, travel to McNair and discipline-specific conferences, and encouraging undergraduate publications. McNair prepares and supports students through the graduate school application process through paid GRE training, graduate school application fee waivers, and guidance on the various required admissions essays. CU Denver McNair welcomes student applications and referrals from faculty and staff. Any questions about the program can be directed to mcnair@ucdenver.edu.
