How can I get research experience as an undergraduate? How can I start preparing for graduate school? You can do both by applying to be a McNair Scholar at UNH!
The McNair Scholars Program, a federally-funded TRIO program, prepares talented UNH undergraduates for PhD programs in any field of study.
After applying and being accepted to the program, UNH McNair Scholars take part in a variety of educational opportunities, including:
- Attending seminars and workshops focused on graduate school preparation
- Completing a research project with the guidance of a faculty mentor
- Presenting their research at local, regional and national conferences
- Participating in a paid summer research fellowship program, including a $5,000 stipend and free room and board
We talked with two UNH McNair Scholars to learn more about how this program has transformed their UNH experience and why they recommend you apply.
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James Brackett '26, biomedical science: medical and veterinary science major
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Caleb Marrero '25, health sciences major
James Brackett '26, UNH McNair Scholar
1. Why did you choose UNH?
James:
I chose UNH because it was close to home and would be relatively inexpensive to go. During my freshman year, I found out about the research opportunities available, which happened to be a plus.
Caleb:
I chose UNH because it offered the perfect balance of proximity to home (near Central MA) and new opportunities. The campus itself is stunning, with a vibrant community and excellent resources! Additionally, UNH stood out because of the academic and research opportunities it provides (being an R1 research institution), particularly in fields that align with my career goals. I felt that this environment would allow me to grow both personally and professionally.
2. Why did you apply to the McNair Scholars Program?
James:
I applied to the McNair Scholars Program because I wanted to get further involved in research and had heard about how prestigious it is to be a McNair Scholar due to the training you have the opportunity to go through.
Caleb:
I applied to the McNair Scholars Program because it aligns closely with my long-term goal of earning a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) and ultimately becoming a physical therapist. The program’s emphasis on research, mentorship and preparation for graduate studies strongly appealed to me. I knew it would provide the structure, resources and connections necessary to thrive in a competitive PhD/DPT program while allowing me to explore my passion for research in a supportive environment.
Caleb Marrero '25, UNH McNair Scholar
3. How did the Pre-McNair Program help prepare you to be a McNair Scholar?
James:
The Pre-McNair Program allowed me to go through the motions of drafting my very own research proposal. That meant doing lots of research, laying a foundation to the knowledge I improved during my McNair summer.
4. What goals do you have for after UNH?
James:
A goal I have after I finish my undergrad here at UNH is to do a master’s program, then go into medical school, or take a few gap years, work, gain experience and then go into medical school.
Caleb:
After UNH, my goal is to open my own private physical therapy practice, where I can specialize in treating athletes. I also want to continue contributing to the field of physical therapy through research. This includes advancing our understanding of athlete health, particularly regarding mental health and injury recovery. I envision my practice as a space where I can combine my clinical skills with the latest research to provide comprehensive care tailored to everyone.
James Brackett '26, UNH McNair Scholar
5. What's the coolest part about the McNair Scholars Program?
James:
I think the coolest part of my experience with the McNair Scholars Program was our trip to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). During this trip, my cohort and I presented at a research conference with other McNair scholars from all around the country. It sounds daunting; however, the whole summer the professors and McNair staff did a wonderful job helping us hammer out the kinks in our presentation skills and reassuring us that we were the experts in our field. So, it went very well.
Caleb:
The coolest part of the McNair Scholars Program is the exposure to such a wide range of diverse research projects. Every scholar has a unique focus, and it’s fascinating to learn about different methodologies, challenges and findings. No two projects are alike, and this diversity creates an inspiring environment where you’re constantly learning not just about your field but also about others. It’s a great reminder of how much there is to learn!
6. What are some opportunities you've had as a McNair Scholar that you would not have had otherwise?
James:
Opportunities I have had as a McNair Scholar I would not have had otherwise include going to UCLA and touring University of Southern California, Los Angeles (USC), becoming very good friends with those in my cohort and having the opportunity to feel confident in myself while presenting my research.
Caleb:
As a McNair Scholar, I’ve had the opportunity to present my research at prestigious conferences, such as at Baylor University and at the Southeastern Association of Educational Opportunity Program Personnel (SAEOPP) Annual Conference in Atlanta. These experiences allowed me to share my work on the “Epidemiology of Concussions among Middle School Athletes” with a broader audience and receive valuable feedback from professionals. Additionally, the program has given me access to professional development workshops and networking opportunities that have significantly prepared me for graduate school and beyond.
Caleb Marrero '25, UNH McNair Scholar
7. What advice would you give your first-year self?
James:
The advice I would have given my freshman self starting his first year at UNH would be to go to office hours and generate a meaningful connection with my professors. This is something I still struggle with today; however, I am always trying to improve.
Caleb:
I would tell my freshman self: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone but do so in ways that align with your values and goals. Taking reasonable risks can lead to incredible growth, but it’s also essential to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Remember to take time for yourself, whether that’s through self-care, setting boundaries, or finding activities that help you avoid burnout. This balance is very important, especially as someone who struggles with saying no and always wanting to stay busy.
8. What have you learned from participating in undergrad research as a McNair Scholar?
James:
I worked in a bioengineering laboratory the semester leading up to my McNair summer and during it. The level of problem-solving, critical thinking and setbacks that take place during research is intimidating. However, if it wasn't, everyone would do research, and there would be no problems in the world. I think the most important thing I learned was how paramount research is when it comes to solving the world’s problems, and after listening to the research done by those in my cohort, I know some of us are on track to do so.
Caleb:
I’ve conducted research as a research assistant in the BRAIN Lab, under the guidance of Dr. Patricia Kelshaw. My initial research focused on the epidemiology of concussions among middle school athletes, which deepened my understanding of injury trends and rates. My current research examines the "Mental Health State Endorsements in College Athletics: Examining the Role of Sex and Sex-Matched Sports in Collegiate Athletes." I will present my findings of this project at the American College of Sports Medicine Conference in Atlanta. These experiences have reinforced my passion for research.
9. Why should other students apply to the McNair Scholars Program?
James:
I would say if you’re interested in research even a little and have a free summer that could be spent doing something that could ultimately change the course of your life, I would give the McNair Scholars Program a chance. You also learn valuable skills, whether research-based or professional, that could bolster an application or resume in the future.
Caleb:
The McNair Scholars Program offers great opportunities for academic and professional growth. It provides access to resources, mentorship and funding that prepare you for the challenges of graduate school. The program connected me with like-minded peers and mentors who currently inspire and support me. It’s a unique opportunity to develop your research skills, gain confidence in presenting your work and build a network that will help you both academically and socially.
learn more about the McNair Scholars Program at UNH
related posts:
Day in the Life of a McNair Scholar
Pedro '26, a McNair scholar, walks us through a summer day in his life, presenting research he did through the UNH John Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center at the UCLA McNair Conference. read Pedro's story
