About Ronald E. McNair

Who Qualifies ?

·       Highly motivated, disciplined and hard working students who are first generation college student with demonstrated  financial need.

       (Federal guidelines stipulate that an applicant must only consider the educational status of his/her parents to determine whether or not the applicant qualifies as being a first-generation college student.)

·       Members of groups that are underrepresented in graduate education as defined by the U.S. Department of Education (African-American, Hispanic, American Indian/Alaskan Native, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian.)

What is Required ?

·         Applicants must have completed their sophomore year of study.

·        Applicants must be enrolled in a formal undergraduate degree program at West Virginia University on a full-time basis.

·         A minimum cumulative cGPA of 3.0.

·         U.S. citizenship or permanent residence.

·         Completed Ronald E. McNair application packet with all the necessary supporting documents by January 31st.

What do you Get?

·         A faculty mentor with research interests related to your academic interests.

·         Participation in a six-week summer research project under the direction of your faculty mentor.

·         Stipends for participation in the academic year and summer research components.

·         Publication of your written abstract and research in the McNair Scholar's Journal, and presentation at the annual McNair Research Symposium.  Alternatively, you can co-author a publication with your faculty mentor.

·        Tutorial and writing development assistance.

·         Participation in seminars designed to introduce participants to the nature of graduate education and to successful role models who have obtained doctoral degrees.

·         Participation in workshops on research skills, the graduate school application process, Graduate Record Examination preparation, and resources for graduate education funding.

·         Assistance in defining, setting and realizing educational goals, and in applying to a graduate program of your choice.

·         A supportive network of McNair Scholars who, like you, are working toward a graduate degree.

·        Opportunities to attend professional meetings or conferences with your faculty mentor or  visit selected institutions for research purposes.

·         Ongoing support from faculty mentors and program staff
dedicated to ensuring student advancement.

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