Program Services
Coursework
McNair Scholars participate in specialized courses that focus on various topics, including the craft of research, the culture of graduate education, the graduate school application process, quantitative and verbal reasoning, graduate-level writing, and college-level teaching. Additional workshops and weekend sessions are offered as needed.
Research Experience
McNair Scholars undertake a research project under the guidance of a McNair Faculty Mentor. They present their research at the Showcase for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (SURCA) and at various regional and national conferences. New participants do not need to have prior research experience, although some may enter the program with existing experience, a specific project in mind, and/or a faculty mentor already selected.
Counseling and Mentoring
McNair Scholars meet regularly with the McNair Program staff to create Individual Preparation Plans and receive personalized academic and career counseling, as well as mentoring. Together with the program staff, faculty mentors, and McNair Alumni Mentors, scholars develop essential academic and professional skills needed to meet the performance standards for successfully completing graduate-level work.
Additional Resources for The TRIO McNair Scholars
Summer Semester Preparation Activities
Scholars utilize the summer semester to continue their preparartion for graduate school by participating in summer research programs at other universities or in WSU’s McNair Summer Institute. By building on the work they completed during the Fall and Spring semesters, they enhance their competitiveness as applicants for graduate programs. Examples of summer preparation activities include conducting research, writing statements of purpose, and securing letters of recommendation.
Graduate Application Fee Waiver
Through a partnership with the Council of Graduate Schools and the Council for Opportunity in Education, McNair Scholars are eligible for application fee waivers at many universities nationwide. Find out which schools offer these (and other) benefits at the Council for Opportunity in Education List of Fellowships and Application Fee Waivers.
Cultural Enrichment Activities
McNair Scholars are encouraged to attend invited lectures, performances, and other events. These activities aim to broaden students’ perspectives and further prepare them for graduate studies.
McNair Alumni Network
McNair Scholars are mentored by McNair Alumni from the WSU McNair Program, as well as many McNair programs across the country. This important corps of mentors provide current Scholars with additional sources of support, wisdom, and inspiration.