November 18, 2020
26th cohort of McNair Scholars selected
The TRIO Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program selected the 26th cohort of scholars through a competitive application process, including an interview. Scholars will soon begin work to find research mentors and plan summer research internships.
Since 1995, Kansas State University's TRIO McNair Scholars Program has promoted the scholarly development of academically talented income-limited, first-generation college students and students from groups underrepresented in graduate education. The goal of the program is to increase the number of people from these groups holding graduate degrees and serving in the ranks of faculty and researchers.
The 26th cohort of McNair Scholars includes the following students:
- Nhicolas Aponte, senior in computer science.
- India Barnett, sophomore in biomedical engineering.
- Bailey Britton, junior in mass communications and English.
- Ivan Bueso-Interiano, senior in animal sciences and industry.
- Sergio DePena, senior in human development and family science.
- Alejandra Gonzalez, junior in finance.
- Jesus Gonzalez-Morales, junior in biomedical engineering.
- Daijah Jones, junior in psychology.
- Madison Leierer, junior in biochemistry.
- Thailyea Lopez, sophomore in English.
- Lillian Maina, junior in social work and modern languages.
- Katherine Rodriguez, sophomore in psychology.
- Nicolas Sastoque, sophomore in chemical engineering.
- Lesly Torices, sophomore in biological systems engineering.
- Emily Wright, junior in human development and family science.
In preparation for graduate school, scholars will complete a research internship under a faculty mentor, write an article-length project and abstract, present their research, and participate in weekly seminars to prepare graduate applications and explore topics in professionalism. For most scholars, this is a two-year commitment, though participating seniors engage in a modified timeline.
The McNair Scholars Program will begin recruiting new participants next summer. Eligible students with an interest in graduate study are encouraged to apply by early September. Faculty and staff who know of good candidates should refer them to the program and/or contact the McNair office. For more information, see the program website at k-state.edu/mcnair. The McNair Scholars Program is a Federal TRIO Program administrated by the Department of Education and authorized by Congress.