FAQs

What is the goal of McNair and ROP?

The program is committed to increasing the number of students in doctoral degree programs who come from low-income and first generation backgrounds, or who are members of traditionally underrepresented groups in academia, specifically African Americans, Hispanic/Latinos and American Indian/Alaska Natives.

Who is eligible?

All McNair Scholars are selected on a competitive basis. You are eligible to apply if you:

  • Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
  • Are determined to pursue doctoral studies
  • Are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident
  • Are a junior or senior at UNM
  • Are a first generation college student and low income or
  • Are a member of an underrepresented group

All ROP Scholars are selected on a competitive basis. You are eligible to apply if you:

  • Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
  • Have an interest in pursuing graduate or professional school
  • Are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Are a sophomore, junior or senior at UNM
  • Are a member of an underrepresented group

How do I apply for McNair or ROP?

Applications are available at the McNair/ROP office on the 3rd floor of Mesa Vista Hall in room 3039 or on our website. A complete application includes:

  • Application checklist
  • A completed and signed application form
  • Personal Statement (2 page maximum)
  • Letters of recommendation (at least 3)
  • Proof of eligibility forms
  • “Do I Qualify?” form
  • Transcripts (unofficial transcripts from UNM, official transcripts from all other institutions attended)

When can I apply for McNair or ROP?

The McNair/ROP cycle restarts every year beginning October 1. All applications will be considered for both the ROP and McNair programs. Applications are accepted unitl all scholar slots are filled.

What is required of me once I am in McNair or ROP?

The University of New Mexico McNair and ROP programs offer students the opportunity to nurture their academic goals. Scholars attend skill building seminars and workshops on research process, graduate school application procedures, financial aid, personal and presentation skills building. These workshops and seminars are designed to enhance their abilities to achieve academic goals. Additionally, scholars are offered academic advisement, tutoring, participation in cultural events, travel to present at research conferences and campus visits. Students participating in the program are required to spend classroom time on the research project, meet regularly with the program advisor, and attend workshops, lectures and meetings. In addition, students must complete a research paper reflecting the time spent on the project for publication in the UNM McNair/ROP Research Journal.

What kind of research project can I do?

The McNair and ROP Programs require its students to complete a research project of their choice by the end of their participation in either program. The research project could apply to the student’s major or any area of interest. There are no limitations or topics on the research project.

What is a mentor and where can I get one?

A mentor is your tutor, and an expert, that is a master of his/her field. Your mentor is essential to your success. A mentor has been where you are now, and knows where you are going. A mentor is a guide for everything from research projects, to how to apply for graduate school. To find a mentor, look to past classes you have taken, ask 2nd year scholars, or go to departmental websites, find the faculty section and see who looks like a good candidate for you.

What would my responsibilities as a mentor be?

The Scholars Program Mentors will be responsible for meeting with their Scholar once per week during the fall and spring semesters preceding the summer research project. During the summer component, McNair Scholars are required to complete 30 hours of research per week in addition to attending daily GRE preparation classes and workshops. Scholars must meet weekly with their Mentors. Mentors will monitor the progress with the research project, verify the Scholar’s timesheet and complete monthly progress reports with the Scholar.
In the fall, the Mentors will be asked to attend the UNM undergraduate research symposium. At this symposium, the Scholars will present their research. During the fall and spring semesters following the summer component, the Scholars will be required to meet with their Mentor monthly to discuss graduate schools and solicit recommendations and/or advise for applying to schools. To be approved for campus visits and conference attendance, Scholars will need the approval of their Mentor. The Mentor will be asked to review all conference paperwork and approve travel proposals.

Research expectations:

  • Help the scholar with identifying a focus area and preparing a research action plan, including a timeline.
  • Meet with the scholar to discuss responsibilities and expectations of both parties.
  • Guide the scholar in conducting research in his or her focus area.
  • Set regular meetings with the scholar to discuss research progress.
  • Assess his or her needs, review research plans and set attainable short and long term goals.
  • Provide support and advice to the scholar to present and publish their work.
  • Stress the importance of maintaining a research journal or logbook.
  • Acquaint the scholar with research methods, data collection, interpretation, and evaluation.
  • Direct the Scholar with the writing of a publication quality paper due before the end of his senior year.

Personal and professional expectations:

  • Communicate with the scholar openly and honestly.
  • Give the scholar sound constructive criticism.
  • Help the scholar to discover his or her own potential and clarify his or her personal and academic and professional development.
  • Assist the scholar to find educational, research and financial resources for graduate education.
  • Be available to the scholar when he or she needs direction and encouragement.
  • Help the scholar in building his or her self-esteem.
  • Help the scholar connect theory with practical application.
  • Demonstrate critical reading and thinking skills to the scholar.
  • Hold the scholar to high standards of academic output.
  • Serve as resource and referral person for the student.
  • Show willingness to help mentee make valuable academic and professional contacts.
  • Serve as an information base regarding available educational and financial resources, professional and educational associations, graduate programs, departmental practices, and other information that will be helpful in the scholar’s academic and professional growth.

Specifically, the mentor should:

  • Accept the protégé as a legitimate student with potential for success.
  • Legitimize the students with departmental faculty and other students.
  • Direct course choice and plans.
  • Communicate with the protégé in an open and honest manner.
  • Direct the protégé’s research.
  • Give sound, constructive and critical reviews of the protégé’s work, free of judgmental bias.
  • Hold protégé to high standard of academic output.
  • Be an advocate for the protégé as progress is made toward completion of the undergraduate degree.
  • Introduce the protégé to opportunities and options for graduate study.
  • Help sponsor and promote the protégé into the profession.

How can I become a mentor for a McNair or ROP scholar?

The Mentor Handbook, which includes the forms, is available at the McNair/ROP office on the 3rd floor of Mesa Vista Hall room 3039. For questions please contact Rosalina Trujillo at 277-5491.

How will McNair or ROP help me?

The goal of McNair and ROP is to prepare students for further study beyond a bachelor’s degree. Through the research project students learn the process of research that goes along with a graduate studies program. The students are taken across the country for campus visits and to conferences. These conferences allow for networking with other McNair and ROP students. The seminars and workshops teach the scholars how to prepare for graduate school. Through the program students get GRE prep and get the fees waivered for the GRE test. Because the McNair program is very well known for prestigious students, many graduate schools will waiver the application fee.

How much is the stipend?

$2800.

Where is the office located?

Mesa Vista Hall 3rd Floor
Room 3039 and 3037

Contact:
Carolina Aguirre or Lacy Rivera
277-5491