McNair

Scholars

Program

Handbook

McNair Scholars Program Administrative Roles

Patricia Spaniol-Mathews, Ph.D. Executive Director Phone: 361 825-3163 Location: GLASSCOCK 151A Email: pspaniolmathews@tamucc.edu Areas of Responsibility:

Budget/Compliance

Faculty/Mentor Coordination

Graduate School Recommendations

Journal

McNair Day

Student Orientation

Student Recruitment

Travel Approval Anabel Hernandez

Program Manager Phone: 361 825-3835 Location: GLASSCOCK 150 Email: anabel.hernandez@tamucc.edu Areas of Responsibility:

Academic Advising & Counseling

Coordination of Research Presentation

Coordination of Seminars/Workshops

Financial Aid/Financial Literacy Assistance

Graduate School Admission Assistance

Graduate School Placement

Individual Educational Plans

Scholar File Documentation

Student Recruitment

Maggie Cooper Administrative Assistant Phone: 361 825-3687 Location: GLASSCOCK 151D Email: margarita.cooper@tamucc.edu Areas of Responsibility:

Clerical Support

Data Input & Student Tracking

Student Access Database Documentation

Dr. Ronald E. McNair

Biography

HE OVERCAME OBSTACLES.

Dr. Ronald Erwin McNair, Physicist & Astronaut,

dared to dream. As an African-American growing up

in a poor community in the South, he encountered

discrimination early in his youth.

Yet this did not stop him from pursuing his dream

of becoming a scientist.

HE ACHIEVED ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE.

In 1971, he graduated magna cum laude from North

Carolina AT&T State University with a B.S. degree

in physics. Ronald McNair then enrolled in the

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In 1976, at the

age of 26, he earned his Ph.D. degree in laser physics.

HE BECAME A LEADER IN HIS FIELD.

Dr. McNair soon became a recognized expert in laser

physics while working as a staff physicist with Hughes

Research Laboratory. He was selected by NASA for the

space shuttle program in 1978 and was a mission

specialist aboard the 1984 flight of the shuttle Challenger.

HE WAS RESPECTED AND COMMENDED.

For his achievements, Ronald McNair received three

honorary doctorate degrees and many fellowships

and commendations. These distinctions include:

Presidential Scholar, 1967-71; Ford Foundation

Fellow, 1971-74; National Fellowship Fund Fellow,

1974-75, Omega Psi Phi Scholar of the Year, 1975;

Distinguished National Scientist, National Society of

Black Professional Engineers, 1979; and the Friend

of Freedom Award, 1981.

HE EXCELLED IN MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE.

Ronald McNair also held a fifth degree black belt

in karate and was an accomplished jazz saxophonist.

He was married and was the dedicated father of a

daughter and a son.

After his death in the Challenger explosion in January

1986, members of Congress provided funding for the

Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement

Program to encourage college students with similar

backgrounds to Dr. McNair to enroll in graduate

studies. Thus, the program targets students of color

and low income, first-generation college students.

This program is dedicated to the high standards of

achievement inspired by Dr. McNair’s life.

Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program

THE NATIONAL MCNAIR SCHOLAR PLEDGE© I ______________________ will strive to honor and respect the legacy set forth by Dr. Ronald E. McNair and former McNair scholars I will work earnestly toward the realization of my educational goals I will embrace the challenge of attaining baccalaureate and post baccalaureate education through hard work, perseverance, and persistence. I will strive to overcome any obstacles, barriers and limitations that might hinder, derail, or prevent my educational attainment. I will endeavor to achieve excellence by conceiving of and believing in excellence in my personal, professional and academic endeavors. I will observe high ethical, moral and academic standards. I understand that I must be trustworthy, honorable and noble Respect myself, my peers, and the people who contribute to my personal and academic success I will graciously extend myself and service to the uplifting of future TRiO students and promising scholars I will be a part of the solution and not the problem; I am a McNair Scholar and I believe in the words of Dr. McNair: “Whether or not [I] reach [my] goals in life depends entirely on how well [I] prepare for them and how badly [I] want them.” With this pledge, I hereby accept the responsibilities and privileges of induction into the Ronald E. McNair Post baccalaureate Achievement Program.

Conceived and Authored by Wallace Southerland III, Ph.D., Associate Director, McNair Program at the University of Maryland, College Park and Cheryl Bailey Gittens, Director

McNair Scholars Program at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University with contributions by members of the national McNair Scholars community

©May 2009 University of Maryland, College Park and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and

State University McNair Scholars Programs

Introduction

The Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi McNair Scholars Handbook is for your

informational use and is a basic tool to ensure that you have a guide that describes the

policies, services, benefits, expectations, and resources of the Ronald E. McNair Post-

Baccalaureate Achievement Program at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi (McNair

Scholars Program).

This handbook has been designed in a chronological fashion for ease of use and is by no

means exhaustive, as many policies, procedures, and rules will be provided as needed

during McNair monthly meetings and in written announcements, bulletin boards,

electronic-mail messages, and telephone calls. This handbook is subject to modifications

as needed. It is important that you keep your handbook as up-to-date as possible.

The McNair Scholars Program will give you new opportunities and adequate support to

help you reach your academic and professional goals. The success of the McNair

Scholars Program is based on a collaborative effort of faculty mentors, program staff, and

of course you.

The McNair Scholars Program is designed to help high-achieving, motivated, historically

disadvantaged low-income and first-generation college students and underrepresented

students in graduate school receive a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. in their field of study. McNair

Scholars are given the opportunity to collaborate with a faculty mentor on a research

project of their choosing.

McNair Scholars are expected to represent academic excellence by achieving to the best

of their ability in academic and professional endeavors and engaging in community

service to help others attain success.

The McNair & TRIO Connection

In the middle to late 1960’s, Congress established a series of programs to ensure equal educational

opportunity for all Americans, regardless of race, ethnic background, or economic circumstance.

These programs, funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, are referred to as the

TRIO Programs. Legislation was established for TRIO programs to provide assistance to students

who are low-income, first generation, and underrepresented in higher education. The original

TRIO programs were Upward Bound, Talent Search, and Student Support Services. The name

TRIO has been retained even though three additional programs (Educational Opportunity Centers,

Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Programs, and training programs for TRIO

staff) were later added. McNair Programs joined the TRIO family in 1986 in memory of Dr.

Ronald E. McNair, a gifted scientist from an underprivileged background who rose to achieve the

highest academic distinction possible, and to become one of the first African Americans in the

NASA program. All TRIO Programs are funded by the United States Department of Education.

Today, more than 2,800 TRIO programs serve 850,000 students. Over 1,200 colleges, universities,

and agencies in the nation currently house TRIO programs. There are numerous McNair programs

in operation at various universities throughout the United States. In 2007, Texas A&M University-

Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) was selected as one of two hundred institutions to host a McNair

Scholars Program. TAMUCC also has a Student Support Services Program. These programs

operate under the guidance of Dr. Gerardo Moreno, the Assistant Vice President for Student

Success.

Overview of the McNair Scholars Program

The goal of the McNair Scholars Program at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is to provide services for students with academic potential majoring in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and liberal arts to matriculate, persist, and graduate from a doctoral program. The program provides participants with a mentored research experience, seminars, and workshops on topics pertinent to the pursuit of a graduate education, and the acquisition of advanced library and research presentation skills. The program’s long-range mission is to help increase the number of underrepresented group members who pursue careers as university faculty and researchers. The McNair Scholars Program is highly interactive. Comprised of both an academic and a summer program, the program requires scholars to complete a series of assignments that prepare students to enter and succeed in graduate programs. During the summer research program, students forge a relationship with a faculty mentor while conducting research. Scholars present their research findings at professional and academic conferences, where they benefit from the interchange of ideas with others working in related areas. Participants receive a research stipend and travel funds to attend these professional conferences. The program works very closely with its participants through their undergraduate requirements and tracks their progress to successful completion of advanced degrees. The McNair Scholars Program is located in the Glasscock Student Success Center. Services Provided:

• Research opportunities for participants who have completed their sophomore year of college, up to two summers of research stipends may be awarded

• Mentoring with a faculty member in their chosen discipline and with similar professional interests

• Seminars and workshops designed to prepare students for doctoral studies

• Tutorial assistance

• Academic counseling and advising

• Financial Literacy

• Assistance in securing admissions into graduate programs

• Assistance in obtaining student financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships

• GRE preparation and assistance

• Funding for travel and conferences

• Publication of a research article in the McNair Scholars Research Journal

Benefits of the McNair Scholars Program

Participating in an undergraduate research experience is extremely beneficial when applying to graduate school. It demonstrates that the student is capable of going beyond course requirements and is truly interested in learning about how an academic discipline approaches problem solving. In addition, undergraduate research training provides the skills and knowledge essential for success in the workplace. Employers value individuals who can think critically, assess problems, and formulate plans of action to address those problems, as well as communicate with others and work in a group context to implement solutions. Other benefits include:

• A paid summer internship offering the opportunity to design and conduct a research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor from the area in which the scholar hopes to pursue a graduate degree;

• Attendance at academic seminars and workshops;

• Participation in the TAMUCC McNair Research Poster Presentation Event;

• Participation in graduate school fairs;

• Participation in national McNair Scholar Symposiums;

• Travel funds to attend professional conferences;

• Paper publication in the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi McNair Research Journal, a collection of research articles written by McNair scholars;

• Presentation of summer research findings at various conferences;

• Admission Application Fee Waivers for graduate school admissions for participating institutions;

• Interaction with students in your field of interest, and

• Learning becomes more exciting!

McNair Scholar Phases Phase 1 – Rising Scholars

Phase 1 will focus on equipping students with skills crucial to academic success

and degree attainment. These students for the most part are sophomores who will receive

workshops on necessary academic issues such as study skills, test taking skills, time

management, tutoring, and beginning research and organizational skills. Each scholar

also attends a specially designed workshop on how to determine who will be their faculty

research mentor and how to approach faculty to initiate a mentor relationship. Intensive

advising, counseling and mentoring services are also provided. Each student signs a

detailed commitment agreement that addresses all requirements of a Rising Scholar and

any additional assessed needs.

Phase 2 – Spring/Summer Research Scholars

Phase 2 will familiarize students with the research process and facilitate the

students’ implementation of this process though the completion of a research project.

These students are juniors or above. The students commit to several training workshops

throughout the academic year, including: mentor search, IRB protocol, literature reviews,

methodology, and research statistics. These students complete summer research under

the direction of their faculty mentor, as well as their research article and poster.

All students in all groups must complete the Collaborative Institutional Training

Initiative (CITI Program) this is the training program utilized by TAMU-CC to ensure

training is received by all faculty members, staff, and students engaged in human subject

research. Completing CITI training is a requirement to submit an IRB protocol. This is an

online research training and is accessible free of charge to all university faculty, students,

and staff through the IRB website. This requirement provides McNair Scholars with an

understanding of issues involved in ethical research and will help them meet graduate

school requirements. Each spring/summer research scholar signs a detailed commitment

agreement that addresses all research requirements and any additional assessed needs.

Phase 3 – Master Scholars Phase 3 will seek to expand upon the skills acquired in Phase 1 and 2 with a focus

on professional development and research presentation. These are Scholars who have

completed their summer research and have produced their journal article and poster.

Skills development training for these Scholars includes state and national research

presentations, and mock graduate school interviews. These Scholars will also determine

any additional research opportunities they want to pursue. Each Master Scholar signs a

detailed commitment agreement that addresses all Phase 3 requirements and any

additional assessed needs.

Phase 4 – Senior Graduates

The fourth and final stage will concentrate on equipping students with the skills

necessary to receive admission into graduate school. This group is in the final stage of

the McNair Scholars Program. These Scholars work closely with faculty mentors and

program staff to complete the requirement documents to successfully be accepted in to

a graduate program. The following documents include: Curriculum Vita, Personal

Statements, Graduate Applications, Recommendations, and GRE Exam preparation.

They also mentor McNair Rising Scholars. Each graduating scholar signs a detailed

commitment agreement that addresses all Phase 4 requirements and any additional

assessed needs.

All McNair Scholars attend and participate in at least one community service event

and one cultural event each year. All Scholars develop an education plan in conjunction

with the McNair manager. These plans are updated as appropriate. All McNair Scholars

also receive FAFSA preparation information and scholarship search assistance. Financial

and economic literacy is provided throughout all of the phases through online and in-

person workshops with the option of family involvement.

Rising Scholars Agreement Academic Year: 2015-2016

Maintain a 3.0 GPA, full-time status, and good standing, if you fall below these standards, contact McNair Staff.

Attend all required McNair Workshops and other required designated workshops.

McNair Staff should approve all Absences.

Schedule an appointment to have your photograph taken for Website and Journal.

Attend McNair Day and other appropriate programs.

Schedule individual meeting with McNair Staff at least once a month.

Attend one cultural event and one service event in a given academic year (proof of attendance required).

When directed to reply, please answer all e-mails sent by McNair staff in a timely manner.

Print Name_________________________________________________ Student Signature____________________________________________ Date:__________ Staff Signature______________________________________________ Date:__________

Research Scholars Agreement Academic Year: 2015 - 2016

Maintain a 3.0 GPA, full-time status, and good standing, if you fall below these standards, please contact McNair staff.

Select an approved McNair Faculty Mentor for your research project by the last day of January.

Complete the IRB online training course by the last day of January.

Complete the Research Action Plan (RAP) by the last day of February and obtain approval from your Faculty Mentor and McNair staff before starting the research project.

If working with human participants or sentient animals you must complete and submit an IRB protocol application by the last day of February and receive IRB approval before starting the research project.

Obtain all required signatures for your research.

Attend all required McNair meetings/workshops.

1. Mentor Search OCT. 6. Lit. Review JAN.

2. Graduate Process OCT. 7. Research Methods FEB.

3. Personal Statement OCT. 8. Research Overview FEB.

4. CITI & IRB NOV. 9. Research Statistics MAR.

5. Composing CV NOV. 10. Speed Interviewing MAR.

You need McNair staff approval for all workshop absences.

Schedule individual meeting with Program Manager at least once a month.

Attend one cultural event and one service event in a given academic year (proof of attendance required).

When directed to reply, please answer all e-mails sent by McNair staff in a timely manner.

Schedule an appointment to have your photograph taken for the Website and Journal by the last day of September.

Complete the research project during Summer 2016. This is contingent on your completion of the research article and poster (including any editing) and the approval of the article and poster by your McNair Faculty Mentor and the McNair Executive Director.

Present your research on McNair Research Day and other appropriate venues.

The stipend of up to $2800.00, will be contingent on completion of all requirements herein and any other requirements that are assigned to you by your Research Faculty Mentor or McNair staff. Print Name_________________________________________________ Student Signature____________________________________________ Date: ______________

Staff Signature_______________________________________________ Date: ______________

Master Scholars Agreement Academic Year: 2015-2016

Maintain a 3.0 GPA, full-time status, and good standing, if you fall below these standards, contact McNair Staff.

Attend all required McNair workshops. McNair Staff should approve absences.

Personal Statement OCT. Fin. Aid Literacy APR.

Composing CV NOV.

Speed Interviewing MAR.

Schedule GRE test by assigned date.

Present your research at McNair Day, Discipline Conference, and a McNair Conference.

Schedule an individual meeting with McNair Program Manager at least once a month.

Attend one cultural event and one service event in a given academic year (proof of attendance required).

When directed to reply, please answer all e-mails sent by McNair staff in a timely manner.

Print Name________________________________________________ Student Signature________________________________________________ Date___________

Staff Signature___________________________________________________ Date___________

CITISProgram Schedule for 2015-2016 McNair Scholars Program

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

*This schedule is subject to change per the McNair Staff at any time.

*Program Orientation 9/11/15 12-3 p.m. Location: UC Marlin Room 317 This orientation is mandatory for all McNair Scholars. This meeting will give a program overview as well as an understanding of program expectations.

*Mentor Choice and Relationship Workshop 10/2/15 12-1 p.m. Location: UC Marling Room 317 This workshop is mandatory for all scholars who will be doing research and rising juniors. This meeting will help students gain a better understanding of what they should look for in a mentor and what a mentor is looking for in a student. Other Items: Discussion of the Research Action Plan (RAP) Discussion of Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI)

*Graduate School Acceptance Process Workshop 10/2/15 1-2 p.m. Location: UC Marlin Room 317 This workshop is mandatory for seniors. The workshop will discuss graduate school, the application process, items required for applying, GRE testing, and letters of recommendation. This workshop provides scholars with what to look for in a graduate program and how to get accepted. Other Items: Turn in a list of graduate schools by 10/15/15 Discussion of Curriculum Vitae (CV) Discussion of Personal Statement for Graduate School

*Personal Statement Writing Workshop 10/16/15 Time: 12-1pm Location: UC Marlin Room 317

This workshop is mandatory for all McNair Scholars. This workshop will provide scholars with essential information to develop an understanding of not only writing about their interests, eligibility and suitability for applications, but also to learn how their statements provide evidence of their achievements that aren’t reflected in other parts of an application. Other Items: Personal Statement due 11/30/15

*CITI Training and IRB Protocol Workshop 11/6/15 12-1 p.m. Location: UC Marlin Room 317 This workshop is mandatory for all students participating in spring/summer 2016 research. This workshop will explain the protocol that must be filled out if you are working with human or animal participants. This is a document that must be completed with approval from your mentor and submitted here on campus for review and approval of your project. Other Items: Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) due 1/29/16

*Composing your Curriculum Vitae (CV) 11/6/15 1-2 p.m. Location: UC Marlin Room 317 This workshop is mandatory for seniors. The workshop will introduce students to the major elements of a curriculum vitae (CV). The workshop focuses on the most common categories listed in a CV and includes samples of CV’s from different disciplines. Following the informative workshop, students will be given an opportunity to work on their own CV as writing consultants offer feedback and answer questions. Other Items: Curriculum Vitae (CV) due 11/30/2015 Personal Statement due 11/30/15

*Writing a Great Literature Review 1/29/16 Time: TBA Location: TBA This workshop will help explain how to write a great literature review and is mandatory for all spring/summer 2015 researchers. Through examples that pertain to your field of study, we will explain how to write a literature review and what to include in it. This workshop will be a great basis for research. Other Items: CITI Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) due 1/29/16 IRB Protocol due 2/29/16 Reminder: Scholars to bring payroll forms (Social Security card, Driver license, etc.) for next workshop “Research Overview”

*Research Methods Workshop 2/5/16 Time: TBA Location: TBA This workshop is mandatory for all students participating in spring/summer 2015 research. This workshop will discuss how to create methods for your research project as well as how to write the paper portion of your methods section that will encompass the article you will need to submit for the McNair Journal. Other Items: Research Action Plan (RAP) due 2/29/16 Service Event: Discuss upcoming events such as: National TRIO Day

*Research Overview 2/5/16 Time: TBA

Location: TBA This meeting will discuss all requirements for spring/summer 2015 researchers over the summer as well as final requirements from graduating seniors. McNair staff will discuss the upcoming McNair Day Event

*National TRIO Day 2/27/16 Time: TBA Location: TBA The students will perform a community service as a way for TRIO to give back to the community to say thank you for their support. Other Items: Research Action Plan (RAP) due 2/29/16

*Statistics Workshop 3/4/16 Time: TBA Location: TBA Dr. Steve Seidel will host this mandatory workshop for all spring/summer 2016 research scholars. This workshop will give the basics of statistical analysis and how to figure your statistics through SPSS. Other Items: Literature Review due 4/15/16

*Speed Interviewing Workshop 3/4/16 Time: TBA Location: TBA This workshop is mandatory for all McNair Scholars. This workshop will put your interview skills to the test and practice answering interview questions for graduate school in a fun, fast-paced environment alongside your peers.

*Financial Aid Literacy Workshop 4/1/16 Time: TBA Location: TBA This workshop is mandatory for all McNair Scholars. This workshop will provide helpful tips and strategies for undergraduate students seeking to improve their knowledge of budgeting, saving, and avoiding the pitfall of poor credit. Other Items: Literature Review due 4/15/16

*McNair Day and Luncheon TBA 9– 2pm Location: Anchor Ballrooms This event will showcase McNair Scholars who completed summer research during summer 2014 and will allow them to present their poster presentations to faculty and students at TAMU-CC. McNair Day will conclude with a luncheon for all McNair Scholars, faculty mentors, and university staff that supported the McNair Scholars Program.

McNair Scholars Program

2015-2016 Workshop Academic/Cultural Event Schedule

Month Day Date Time Location Topic Presenter

September Friday 11th 12pm -3pm UC-Marlin Room 317McNair Scholars Program Orientation McNair

Tuesday 15th TBD TBD Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff ICA

October Thursday 1st TBD UC Lonestar Get the Job Fashion Show/Suit Sale Career Services

Friday 2nd 12pm-1pm UC-Marlin Room 317Mentor Choice & Relationship McNair

Friday 2nd 1pm-2pm UC-Marlin Room 317Graduate School Acceptance Process McNair

Tuesday 6th TBD TBD DiverseAbility ICA & CAB

Thursday 8th TBD UC SOAR Hispanic Heritage Month SOAR

Wednesday 14th TBD UC Anchor Science & Engineering Field Career Services

Friday 16th 12pm-1pm UC-Marlin Room 317Personal Statement Writing McNair

Wednesday 21st 8pm PAC Distinguished Speaker: Bill Nye TAMUCC

Friday 31st 11am-2pm PASS Foyer PASS Open House PASS

November Wednesday 4th TBD UC Teacher Job fair Career Services

Friday 6th 12pm-1pm UC-Marlin Room 317CITI Training & IRB Protocol McNair

Friday 6th 1pm-2pm UC-Marlin Room 317Composing your CV McNair

Saturday 14th TBD TBD Culture Fest ICA

December Wednesday 2nd TBD TBD PASS Graduation Celebration PASS

January Thursday 21st TBD TBD MLK Jr. March ICA

Friday 29th TBD TBD Writing a Great Literature Review McNair

February Monday 1st TBD TBD African American History Month Celebration ICA

Friday 5th TBD TBD Research Methods McNair

Friday 5th TBA TBA Research Overview McNair

Saturday 27th TBD PASS Foyer National TRiO Day McNair

March Friday 4th TBD TBD Research Statistics McNair

Friday 4th TBD TBD Speed Interviewing McNair

Monday-Friday 14th-18th TBD UC Tunnel of Oppression ICA

April Friday 1st TBD TBD Financial Aid Literacy McNair

TBD TBD TBD UC Anchor McNair Day and Luncheon McNair

May Wednesday 4th TBD TBD PASS Graduation Celebration PASS

Revision: 6/17/15

Cultural Event/Academic Programs Workshops

McNair Scholars Program

2015-2016 Workshop Academic/Cultural Event Schedule

College of Science and Engineering

Dr. Mark Besonen

College of Science and Engineering mark.besonen@tamucc.edu 361- 825-2043

Dr. Eugene Billiot College of Science and Engineering eugene.billiot@tamucc.edu 361-825-2680

Dr. Christopher Bird College of Science and Engineering chris.bird@tamucc.edu 361-825-6024

Dr. Gregory Buck College of Science and Engineering Gregory.buck@tamucc.edu 361-825-3717

Dr. Lea Der Chen College of Science and Engineering ld.chen@tamucc.edu 361-825-3046

Dr. Luis Rodolfo Garcia College of Science and Engineering Luis.garcia@tamucc.edu 361-825-3652

Dr. Xavier Gonzales College of Science and Engineering Xavier.gonzales@tamucc.edu 361-825-3824

Dr. James Hogan College of Science and Engineering James.hogan@tamucc.edu 361-825-5883

Dr. Yuxia Huang College of Science and Engineering lucy.huang@tamucc.edu 361-825-2646

Dr. Scott King College of Science and Engineering scott.king@tamucc.edu 361-825-5877

Dr. Chuntao Liu

College of Science and Engineering

chuntao.liu@tamucc.edu

361-825-3845

Dr. Ruby Mehrubeoglu College of Science and Engineering Ruby.mehrubeoglu@tamucc.edu 361-825-3378

Dr. Paul Montagna College of Science and Engineering Paul.montagna@tamucc.edu 361-825-2040

Dr. Dorina Murgulet College of Science and Engineering dorina.murgulet@tamucc.edu 361-825-2309

Dr. Frank Pezold College of Science and Engineering Frank.pezold@tamucc.edu 361-825-2349

Dr. Lee Smee College of Science and Engineering lee.smee@tamucc.edu 361-825-3637

Dr. Greg Stunz College of Science and Engineering greg.stunz@tamucc.edu 361-825-3254

Dr. Pablo Tarazaga College of Science and Engineering pablo.tarazaga@tamucc.edu 361-825-3187

Dr. Magesh Thiyagarajan College of Science and Engineering Magesh.thiyagarajan@tamucc.edu 361-825-2144

Dr. Dugan Um College of Science and Engineering Dugan.um@tamucc.edu 361-825-3381

Dr. Kim Withers College of Science and Engineering Kim.withers@tamucc.edu 361-825-5907

Dr. Paul Zimba College of Science and Engineering Paul.zimba@tamucc.edu 361-825-2768

College of Education

Ms. Sayuri Hiraishi College of Education Sayuri.hiraishi@tamucc.edu 361-825-2207

Dr. Donald Melrose College of Education don.melrose@tamucc.edu 361-825-2811

Dr. Bethanie Pletcher College of Education bethanie.pletcher@tamucc.edu 361-825-3892

Dr. Frank Spaniol College of Education Frank.spaniol@tamucc.edu 361-825-3924

Dr. Corinne Valadez College of Education Corinne.valadez@tamucc.edu 361-825-3336

College of Liberal Arts

Dr. Isabel Araiza College of Liberal Arts isabel.araiza@tamucc.edu 361-825-3936

Dr. Charles Etheridge College of Liberal Arts charles.etheridge@tamucc.edu 361-825-5755

Dr. Gina Glanc College of Liberal Arts Gina.glanc@tamucc.edu 361-825-2391

Dr. Mark Hartlaub College of Liberal Arts mark.hartlaub@tamucc.edu 361-825-5990

Dr. Sam Hill College of Liberal Arts sam.hill@tamucc.edu 361-825-2394

Dr. Amy Houlihan College of Liberal Arts amy.houlihan@tamucc.edu 361-825-2971

Dr. Melissa Jarrell College of Liberal Arts Melissa.jarrell@tamucc.edu 361-825-2188

Dr. Michael Jin College of Liberal Arts Michael.jin@tamucc.edu 361-825-3352

Dr. Michelle Maresh-Fuehrer College of Liberal Arts michelle.maresh-fuehrer@tamucc.edu 361-825-2273

Dr. Pamela Meyer College of Liberal Arts pamela.meyer@tamucc.edu 361-825-5818

Dr. Miguel Moreno College of Liberal Arts Miguel.moreno@tamucc.edu 361-825-2205

Dr. Catherine Quick College of Liberal Arts Catherine.quick@tamucc.edu 361-825-3025

Dr. Michael Ramirez College of Liberal Arts Michael.ramirez@tamucc.edu 361-825-2388

Dr. Phillip Rhoadez College of Liberal Arts phillip.rhoades@tamucc.edu 361-825-2637

Dr. Carey Rote College of Liberal Arts Carey.rote@tamucc.edu 361-825-2372

Dr. Steven Seidel College of Liberal Arts Steven.seidel@tamucc.edu 361-825-2619

Faculty Mentor Relationship: Scholar Expectations All faculty mentors receive a copy of the Faculty Mentor Handbook and a copy of a scholar contract outlining task deadlines upon starting a research project with a scholar, and are contacted via phone, email, or personal visit by the program coordinator or director to discuss expectations and address any questions. A scholar’s relationship with his or her faculty mentor is one of the most important relationships during one’s undergraduate years. All scholars are expected to follow these guidelines: (1) Meet regularly with mentor, preferably one hour a week or more, to discuss and evaluate progress on research project. During the weekly meeting, review hours of work with mentor and record hours in timesheet. (2) Be punctual for all meetings with mentor. (3) Defer to the mentor’s expertise with regard to research methodology, writing style, and/or project development. (4) Communicate! Avoid misunderstandings by keeping the faculty mentor informed and by asking for information when uncertain about procedures or what to do next. (5) Ask mentor to suggest relevant readings to broaden knowledge base. (6) Get insight from mentor about possible graduate programs and the graduate school environment’s cultures, values, norms, etc., to better prepare for potential challenges and pitfalls. (7) Request guidance when preparing presentation [all McNair Scholars will be expected to give a poster presentation on their project at TAMUCC McNair Scholars Research event and a regional or national professional meeting]. (8) Ask mentor about opportunities to attend professional development activities [conferences, seminars, meetings, etc. – depending on availability, funds for student travel to these meetings might be available]. (9) Have mentor proof and approve all written documents and timesheet forms submitted to the McNair program. (10) Accept constructive criticism and resolve to act on it. Be open to feedback and incorporate the mentor’s suggestions.

McNair Scholars Research Mentor Application

Name: _________________________________________

Title: __________________________________________

College: ________________________________________

Briefly state why you would like to become a McNair scholar mentor: State what research that you are involved in and what research McNair students could participate in: Please list doctoral programs that you would encourage and help McNair scholars with the application process? Include specific institutions if possible. When would you be available to serve as a Mentor for a student who is completing a Research Experience? (Student research would begin in the Spring Semester and continue for 8 – 14 weeks based on research needs) The McNair Scholars Program provides funds for Faculty Mentors and McNair Scholars to attend one professional discipline conference after completion of the required research project. Please list one professional conference that you would like to attend with your mentee? I have read the McNair Scholars Program Faculty Handbook on the mcnair.tamucc.edu website and I will be able to complete all required activities for the program. Signature_______________________________________________________Date_____________________ ______ Initial here if you will allow the use of pictures and other program participation information (no personal information will be used) on the McNair Scholars Program website and other publications including the McNair Scholars Research Journal. Please include with your application a copy of your curriculum vitae and one sample of research publications. Updated July 2015

McNair Research Experience

McNair Scholars will participate in at least one summer Research Experience. You will be selected

to participate based on a review of your participation to-date in the program and your mentor

approved Research Action Plan. The Research Experience requires that you complete a minimum

of 100 documented hours of research overseen by at least one McNair Research Faculty Mentor.

Your continuation in the Research Experience will be contingent on satisfactory progress reports

from your McNair Research Faculty Mentor and an oral report at the mid-project point. You will

receive a stipend up to $2500.00 pro-rated over the research term. Final payment will not be made

until you have submitted to the Director of the McNair Scholars Program your Research Article

and Poster and are approved by the McNair Research Faculty Mentor.

After successful completion of the Research Experience, you will be required to present your

research at the TRIO McNair Scholars Research Poster Presentation event and make at least one

presentation at an area school or program that serves underrepresented populations. Your work

also will be included in the TAMUCC McNair Research Journal. We will encourage you and

provide support for you to present your research at regional, state and national conferences, and

we will assist you in finding opportunities to participate in paid summer research programs at other

universities during the summer after you complete the Research Experience here at TAMUCC.

McNair Scholars Program

Research Action Plan (RAP) PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT LEGIBLY

SCHOLAR NAME: _________________________________ DISCIPLINE: _______________ FACULTY MENTOR: _________________________________________________________ Directions: Use the space provided to describe the summer research you propose to conduct as a McNair Scholar. McNair staff is available to answer your questions and assist you in completing this form. Call or come by if you need further support. The best help you can get to complete this form will be from your Faculty Mentor. (If additional space is needed an additional page may be attached.)

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: (the topic your research will explore)

State the problem in complete sentences in as few words as possible. State the problem, don’t just talk about it.

JUSTIFICATION/IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT:

Why is this proposed research needed? How will it add to the knowledge base in your

discipline?

HYPOTHESES AND/OR RESEARCH QUESTIONS:

Hypotheses and/or research questions direct researchers’ thinking in finding a solution to the problem (topic). List the hypotheses to be tested or state the research questions you will ask in seeking a solution to your research problem.

SOURCES OF LITERATURE REVIEW:

PURPOSE: To demonstrate that you have a clear idea of what is new about the proposed

research. In the review, explain how your research builds on what has already been reported

in the literature that relates to your problem.

SOURCES: Attach an annotated bibliography of at least 15 references you think will be used

for your research.

METHODS OF DATA GATHERING/METHODOLOGY:

Tell step-by-step how data will be gathered to answer the questions or test the hypotheses of this research. (Keep in mind if you plan to use quantitative or qualitative methods.)

DATA ANALYSIS PROCEDURES:

Tell step by step how the data will be analyzed in order to reach conclusions about the questions or hypotheses of this research. (Keep in mind if you plan to use quantitative or qualitative methods.)

Project Begin Date: _________________ Projected Completion Date: ________________

OUTLINE OF PROJECT ACTIVITIES:

Provide a timeline/calendar of research activities that will allow for completion by the end of the projected research completion date. Project must be completed by August 28th .

SIGNATURES: Scholar: _________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Faculty Mentor: ___________________________________________ Date: ______________

McNair Manager: ________________________________________ Date: _____________

1

Spring/Summer Research Program Guidelines

Research offers the satisfaction of discovering something new. For the beginning researcher, there are more immediate

practical benefits. Conducting research helps students understand materials they are studying in a way that no other

kind of work can match. Research experiences increase the scholar’s competitiveness for graduate school. Scholar

researchers and the faculty mentors, who participate in spring/summer research through MCNR, work on various

projects. While outcomes greatly differ, the steps are generally the same and scholars should participate in most, if not

all, of them. These steps include:

Turning an interest into a topic, that topic into a few good questions, and finding answers to the questions that will result in a solution to a problem;

Constructing an argument or hypothesis;

Review of the existing literature;

Testing the hypothesis;

Writing and presenting the research conclusions.

Research Project Time Commitment

Scholars are expected to devote a minimum of 10 hours per week during the research portion of the program. Research

project must have a stated begin and end date.

Research Funding Information

1. Scholars must complete the annual payroll orientation provided by the Business Manager. This includes timesheet

requirements.

2. Scholar must fill out all required payroll forms provided by the BM.

3. Timesheets with mentor’s signature must be submitted to the Program Manager by required submission dates

and with required research items.

4. A payment of $500.00 is released once on signed timesheets and research completion items. Once a scholar has

received $2000.00 and research is complete the final payment of $800.00 will be released.

5. Failure to turn in Spring/Summer research assignments will result in delay of payment.

6. No research can begin prior to the spring semester and Program Manager approval letter. Research must be

complete by the end of summer.

7. No funds can be released prior to end of February or early March.

2

Research Article Format

Title Page

The first page should include the following: Title for the research, student name, mentor name, title,

program/department, and college.

Abstract

The second page should be the abstract and should not exceed 150-200 words or the standard for the discipline.

Article Content

The article must not exceed twenty, double-spaced, 8 ½” x 11” pages. Other specifications: Times Roman, 12 pt. font,

and in a Microsoft word file.

Writing Style

Writing style (APA, MLA, Turabian/Chicago Manual of Style/Council of Science Editors) should be

determined by the faculty mentor. The article should be clear, consistent, and concise. Particular care should be taken to

ensure that each table, chart and/or figure is adequately explained. The paper should be written in a format that is

acceptable for journal submission within the academic discipline.

References/Bibliography

Include a complete reference to each item cited in the research paper. References for items not used in the paper

should not be included. No footnotes for the McNair Journal.

Appendix

If the applicant requires additional space in which to present details of a research instrument, elucidate a theoretical

point of view, or elaborate on some other vital point, an appendix may be included. This appendix should not exceed (3)

three pages, double-spaced.

Final Research Article

The student researcher should submit the final research article to the faculty mentor for approval. The faculty mentor

approval form must be signed by the mentor and sent by the mentor electronically with the final article to the MCNR

Program Manager by the required dates.

Drafts of the research paper and the final research article should be given to the faculty mentor well in advance of the

MCNR submission deadlines.

Research Presentation

Each McNair Scholar who conducts research during the 2016 spring/summer will be required to present his or her

research findings at the annual TAMUCC McNair poster presentation event, one McNair conference, and one discipline

conference.

Research Supply Needs

Student researchers will discuss their research supply needs with their mentor before the request is written. The

mentor must sign the written request before it is submitted to the McNair Scholars Program Office. All the supply

information such as websites and costs should be attached to the pre-purchase request form. Supply funds are very

3

limited so all requests may not be honored.

Research Benchmarks

Spring/Summer

January 29 – Scholar must provide the name of the mentor selected for the research project and have completed the required CITI Training Certification

February 26 – Submit RAP and Annotated Bibliography of at least 15 scholarly sources February 26 – Submit IRB Protocol, if applicable (If this process is required then no student payment can be provided until this process is complete)

April 15 – Submit Literature Review May 13 – Methods/Data Analysis Section Draft June 15– Discussion/Results Section Draft July 15 – Draft Article

August 15* - Final Article & Poster *Deadlines for final research article will be determined individually by the scholar, McNair staff, and the faculty mentor but no later than August 31.

File Check off List – Program Assignments

Research Qualifications

Workshops 2015-2016 (Research Scholars)

Mentor Choice and Relationship Workshop (October 2, 2015)

Institutional Review Board Protocol Workshop (November 06, 2015)

Writing a Great Literature Review Workshop (January 29, 2016)

Research Overview Workshop (February 05, 2016)

Research Methods Workshop (February 05, 2016)

Research Statistics Overview Workshop (March 04, 2016)

Financial Aid Literacy (April 1, 2016)

*Failure to attend all workshops will affect your approval for Spring/Summer research participation. Additionally,

students must meet with the program manager at least once a month during the spring semester and twice a

month during research months.

Spring/Summer Required Research Assignments Prior to Beginning Research

CITI Training Certification (Due: Jan 29, 2016)

Research Action Plan (Due: Feb 26, 2016)

IRB Protocol (If necessary) (Due: Feb 26, 2016)

*Students cannot submit a pre-purchase request form for research supplies until all items are submitted from the

list above (Spring/Summer Required Research Assignment Prior to Beginning Research), attendance of all

workshops, and submission of payroll forms and meeting with Business Support Specialist. See Research Supply

list paragraph on Spring/Summer Research Program Guidelines form on more information on how to submit pre-

purchase request form for supply needs.

Completed Research Assignments in order to Release Research Funds

Literature Review Draft (Due: April 15, 2016)

Methods/Data Analysis Section Draft (Due: May 13, 2016)

Discussion/Results Section Draft (Due: June 15, 2016)

Draft Article (Due: July 15, 2016)

Final Article & Poster (Signed Off Journal Submission Form by Mentor) (Due: Aug 15)

Graduate School Requirements

Graduate School List

Curriculum Vitae

Graduate School Application Personal Statements

List of Graduate School Faculty Recommenders

GRE Exam Scores

Monthly Meetings 2015-2016 Academic Year

September 2015

October 2015

November 2015

PASS Celebration Event (December 2, 2015)

January 2016

February 2016

March 2016

McNair Day (TBA)

April 2016 (Research Scholars Only) April 2016

May 2016 (Research Scholars Only) May 2016

June 2016 (Research Scholars Only) June 2016

July 2016 (Research Scholars Only) July 2016

August 2016 (Research Scholars Only) August 2016

McNair Scholar Journal Submission (Research Report will not be accepted unless accompanied by this form with all required signatures.)

Student Name: ____________________________________ Submission Date:_________________ Research Article Title: _______________________________________________________________ Article Number of Pages: ___________ Article Word Count: __________ McNair Faculty Mentor Name: ________________________________________________________ (as it will appear in the journal) McNair Mentor: Title: ________________________________ Department: ______________________ College: _____________________________ Review Date: _________________________ ______ Accepted No Revisions Needed ______Major Revisions/Additional Review Needed ______ Accepted with Minor Editing ______Not Acceptable Mentor Comments: (If editing is needed, please provide specific instructions for the student)

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Mentor Signature/Date

Student Statement:

Author represents and warrants to the journal staff and the publisher that the report delivered for publication is original and does not infringe the patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret rights or other proprietary rights of third parties. Author further represents that the research was performed in compliance with author’s institutions (and any other institutions related to the research) appropriate policies related to the use of animal and/or human subjects and human-derived material (the “IRB”). __________________________________________________________________________________ McNair Scholar Signature/Date

As Executive Director for the McNair Scholars Program, I have reviewed the Scholar’s Research Report and find that it meets the requirements for completion of the McNair Summer Research Experience. Director Signature/Date:_____________________________________________________________

Procedure

Participants were randomly assigned to a money primed or non-

money primed group. Money primed participants completed a 5-10

minute online survey, with an overlapping currency background, in

the business building on campus. Non-money primed participants

completed a 5-10 minute online survey, with a default gray

background, in a similar, yet, multi-facility building on campus.

Surveys differed only in background.

Results

Product type (necessity vs. luxury) and Priming condition(primed vs. neutral) were the independent variables, anddonation likelihood was the dependent variable. Product typewas a within subject variable and priming condition a betweensubjects variable.No difference was found in likelihood of donating betweenprimed and neutral groups, F (1,134) = .076, p = n.s.A main effect for product type was found, F (1,134) = 29.72, p= .000, ηp

2=.182 indicating an overall increased likelihood todonate necessity items over luxury items.Interestingly, an interaction trend was found between group andproduct type, F (1,134) = 3.48, p = .064. Priming with moneyreduced the magnitude of the product type effect. Primedparticipants treated luxury and necessity products moresimilarly in their likelihood of donating than those not primed.

Individualistic Priming on Donation ChoicesMegan Perkins & Miguel A. Moreno

McNair Scholars Program, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

References

Berry, C. J. (1994). The idea of luxury: A conceptual and historical investigation. New York: Cambridge University Press. Dhar, R., & Wertenbroch, K. (2000). Consumer choice between hedonic and utilitarian goods. Journal of Marketing Research, 37(1), 60-71. doi:

10.1509/jmkr.37.1.60.18718Roberts, J. A., & Roberts, C. R. (2012). Money matters: Does the symbolic presence of money affect charitable giving and attitudes among adolescents? Young

Consumers, 13(4), 329-336. doi: 10.1108/17473611211282572Tsai, S. P. (2005). Impact of personal orientation on luxury-brand purchase value. International Journal of Market Research, 47(4), 177-206.Vohs, K. D., Mead, N. L., & Goode, M. R. (2006). The psychological consequences of money. Science, 314, 1154-1156. doi: 10.1126/science.1132491Vohs, K. D., Mead, N. L., & Goode, M. R. (2008). Merely activating the concept of money changes personal and interpersonal behavior. Current Directions in

Psychological Science, 17(3), 208-212. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-8721.2008.00576.x

Introduction

The Self-Sufficiency Effect predicts that money references will

produce individualistic, self-focused behaviors (Vohs, Mead &

Goode, 2006; 2008). For example, individuals will prefer to

work alone when a stack of cash is visible compared when the

cash is not visible (Vohs, Mead & Goode, 2006; 2008).

Increased individualist and self-focused behavior may thus

decrease empathetic behaviors such as donating (Vohs, Mead

& Goode, 2006; 2008). For example, Roberts and Roberts

(2012) found that money primed participants expressed

decreased donation attitudes and behaviors compared to non-

money primed participants. Individualistic behavior has also

been primed by products of a more luxurious nature compared

to more basic-needs products. Tsai (2005) suggested that

luxury products are more likely associated with self-directed

pleasure. This study investigates the combined inhibitory

influence of money priming and luxury products on donatingbehavior.

Discussion

Money primes did influence participants’ product type donation choices, however, not in the way originally hypothesized. The non-primed group donated a high level of necessity products, and a low level of luxury products. As expected, the primed group donated less necessity products than the non-primed group. Yet, interestingly, the primed group donated more luxury products than the non-primed group. The large effect expressed in the non-primed group between the donation of necessity and luxury products, seemed to decrease due to the influence of money. This result was unexpected and has not been previously evidenced. Therefore, it is difficult to understand the underlying mechanisms producing this effect. According to the results, participants were more likely to donatenecessity products than luxury. When examining consumptionbehaviors, consumers tend to buy more utilitarian products thanhedonic. Utilitarian, rather than hedonic, consumption may be easierto justify and more socially acceptable (Dhar & Wertenbroch, 2000;Okada, 2005; Kivetz & Zhong, 2006; Tong et al., 2013). Societiesalso tend to support utilitarian needs before hedonic wants (Berry,1994). These tendencies may be applicable to donating. Donatorsmay more willingly justify and socially accept utilitarian donationsthan hedonic. Society’s higher likelihood of donating necessity overluxury products may be a way in which society attempts to firstsatisfy utilitarian needs, versus hedonic wants.The phrasing of the donation questions may have also affectedparticipant’s donation choices. When given a forfeiture task (i.e. togive up a previously owned item) people tend to keep moreluxurious items, rather than necessities. However, in an acquisitiontask (i.e. to gain an item) people tend to choose necessities overluxuries (Dhar & Wertenbroch, 2000). In the current study, surveyquestions included forfeiture tasks, which may have encouragedparticipants to hold onto luxuries, and donate necessities.

Conclusion

The present study supports prior research: the presence of money changes

decision patterns. Money’s influence on decisions can be counter-intuitive.

In this study, money primed individuals were more likely to donate hedonic-

luxury produce more than non-primed individuals. Money priming blurred

the distinctions of product types while making donation decisions.

(H1) The money primed group will donate less thanthe non money primed group.

(H2) Participants will donate less luxury product thanmore-basic products.

3

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

Luxury Necessity

Don

atio

n Li

kelih

ood

Money Primed Neutral

Method

Participants

One hundred and forty-five undergraduate, Texas A&M University-

Corpus Christi students participated.

Stimuli

The stimuli for this study included an online survey, computerbackground image, and photos of 10 match (luxury vs. necessity)products. The online survey consisted of three sections:demographics, willingness to donate product items, and willingnessto donate hypothetical money to donation organizations. Willingnesswas measured with a Likert-scale (1=very unlikely, 5=very likely).The photos included ten brand ambiguous and value matchedproduct pairs (i.e. dress shoes-running shoes; cake-bread). Thecomputer background images included overlapping paper currencyand a default gray background.

Toothbrush vs. Dental Kit

N=5, L=2.70 N=2.57, L=3.48

Page 1 of 2  

    Updated: February 12, 2015  

 STUDENT TRAVEL REQUEST Date of Request:  

SELECT PROGRAM:  GENERAL INFORMATION:               SUBMISSION DEADLINES:   In‐state – 30 days prior to date of departure           Out‐of‐state ‐ 60 days prior to date of departure 

Traveler Name:  Traveler Banner ID:  Email: 

Major:  Classification:  GPA (from preceding semester): 

TRAVEL INFORMATION (Complete proposal must be attached for consideration) 

Indicate one: In‐state                      Out‐of‐State  Destination:  

Name of Workshop/Conference:  Workshop/Conference URL: 

Departure date:  Return date: 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (Please provide brief statements. If you would like to provide additional information, please attach additional pages.) 

1) Will you be presenting at this Workshop/Conference? NO           YES             with a faculty member? NO           YES                 If YES, please attach the following documents: research abstract, conference presentation acceptance letter and/or                   email, and copy of presentation.  

2) If not presenting, please provide a brief purpose of trip.  

3) How will attending this workshop/conference benefit your education/program?  

FOR PASS PROGRAM USE ONLY 

Funded Amt: ______________________ 

AR Created: _______________________ 

Conf Registration: ___________________ 

Transportation: _____________________ 

Lodging: ___________________________ 

IC#: __________________________ 

Page 2 of 2  

    Updated: February 12, 2015  

 

Traveler Name:  Traveler Banner ID:  

COSTS (Must attach conference agenda) 

Airfare (include baggage fee, if applicable) 

$  Ground Transportation (Rental/Taxi) –justification required for Rental 

$ 

Registration Fees  $  Incidentals (Baggage fees, internet fees, hotel taxes, etc) 

$ 

Meals (per GSA rates) 

$ _________/day 

$  Mileage (prior program approval required) 

$ 

Lodging (Indicate per night)  $ ____________/night 

$  

Parking Fees (prior program approval required) 

$ 

Higher Lodging Requested:  Yes           No 

  Grand Total  $ 

Have you applied/received funding from any other source, including from conference you are attending?             Yes              No

 

If yes, please indicate funding source title and account #:     _______________________________________________________________ 

 

 

Traveler Name (Print):      Traveler Signature:    Date:  

________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Faculty Mentor Name (Print):    Faculty Mentor Signature:  Date: 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

AUTHORIZATION – PASS Program authorization is required. Additional authorization required at time of reimbursement. 

 Department Approval:  ________________________________________  Date: _______________ 

               AVP Approval:  _____________________________________                 Date: _______________ 

          FOR PASS PROGRAM USE ONLY

Program Entry Date    Select Program:            McNair                 SOAR                         SSS                 FITW 

Requirements Completed for Month Prior 

     Yes            No Letter Sent:

Resume Attached       Yes            No Contract Submitted:

Emergency Information form  

     Yes            No Orientation Date:

TAMUCC Medical Waiver 

     Yes           No Orientation Completed:

Abstract/Conference Agenda 

     Yes           No Bus Coord:

Acceptance Letter       Yes           No Bus Mngr: 

By  signing  below,  I  certify  that  I  have  provided  accurate  information  regarding  travel  expenses  and  have  read  and  understand  the  PASS  Student  Conference  Travel 

Guidelines.  I certify  that  the  travel  listed above meets  the objectives of  the PASS Program.  I understand  travel  requests are evaluated and awarded based on my good 

standing and contingent upon budgeted travel funds available.

Page 1 of 2  

    Updated: February 12, 2015  

 

FACULTY/STAFF TRAVEL REQUEST 

Date of Request:          

SELECT PROGRAM:  GENERAL INFORMATION:           Faculty              Staff SUBMISSION DEADLINES:     In‐State – 30 days prior to date of departure         Out‐of‐State – 60 days prior to date of departure 

Traveler Name:  Traveler UIN: Extension: 

Email:  Position: Department: 

TRAVEL INFORMATION (Complete proposal must be attached for consideration) 

Indicate one:  In state               Out of State  Destination:

Name of Workshop/Conference: 

Departure date:  Return date:

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (Please provide brief statements. If you would like to provide additional information, please attach additional pages.) 1) Will you be presenting at this Workshop/Conference?             NO           YES     

                          If YES, please attach the following documents: research abstract, conference presentation acceptance letter and/or                 email, and copy of presentation.  

2) If not presenting, please provide a brief justification and program benefit for proposed travel. 

 

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES IN RELATION TO PROPOSAL: 1) Please justify how the proposed travel will increase the quality of classroom instruction. 

 

FOR PASS PROGRAM USE ONLY 

Funded Amt: ___________________________ 

Letter: ____________________________ 

Contract: _____________________________ 

Expense Report: ________________________ 

IC#: _________________________ 

Bus Coord: _________________________ 

Bus. Mngr: _________________________ 

Page 2 of 2  

    Updated: February 12, 2015  

 

 

Traveler Name:  Traveler UIN:

COSTS Airfare  $ 

 Ground Transportation(Rental/Taxi) 

$ 

Registration Fees  $  Incidentals(Baggage fees, internet services, hotel taxes, etc) 

$ 

Meals  $ _________/ day 

$  Mileage(prior program approval required) 

$ 

Lodging  $ ___________/night 

$  Parking fees(If applicable) 

$ 

Higher Lodging Requested:  Yes                     No 

  Grand Total $ 

Have you applied/received funding from any other source, including from conference you are attending?             Yes              No  If yes, please indicate funding source title and account #:     _______________________________________________________________ 

SUBMISSION CHECKLIST 

Please attach the following documents that apply to your request for travel funds: Event agenda, Abstract (if presenting), GSA rate sheet, any other supporting documentation 

 

 

 

Traveler Printed Name:        Traveler Signature:      Date: 

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Department Chair Name:      Department Chair Signature:      Date: 

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

 

‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐PASS PROGRAM USE ONLY ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ 

 

AUTHORIZATION – PASS Program authorization is required. Additional authorization required at time of reimbursement.  

Departmental Approval: ____________________________________  Date: _______________ 

AVP Approval: ________________________________________________  Date: _______________ 

By signing below, I certify that I have provided accurate information regarding travel expenses and have read and understand the PASS Conference Travel Guidelines. I certify 

the travel listed above meets the objectives of the PASS Program. I understand that travel requests are evaluated and awarded upon budgeted travel funds available. 

Programs for Academic Student Support (PASS)

SSS, SOAR, MCNR & FITW Programs

PASS Faculty Mentors & Student Travel

Policy and Procedure

Title: PASS Faculty Mentors & Student Conference Travel Requirements

Effective Date: June 3, 2013, Revised June 1, 2015

Policy: It is the policy of PASS to provide Faculty Mentors and PASS students with appropriate conference travel opportunities.

Those Affected: PASS Faculty Mentors & PASS Students

Purpose: Describe the requirements for Faculty Mentor & student conference travel.

1.0 PASS Students

Requirements:

Must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA *

Must be an active PASS Cohort Member. Cohort status will be verified when the travel

request is received.

The student will need to be accepted to present at the requested conference and be

approved to attend by their Faculty Mentor. A Faculty Mentor can also request that a

student go to an academic discipline conference without presenting. This request is

limited and will require a Faculty Mentor recommendation and PASS Executive

Director approval. All requests should be submitted to the appropriate PASS program

travel position on the PASS program travel form with complete conference

details/conference brochure and letter/Email of acceptance to present.

If the student is attending the conference with the Faculty Mentor, the Faculty Mentor

will fill out the conference request form and the student will fill out the student travel

form and have the Faculty Mentor sign. All forms must be submitted one-month prior

for in-state travel and two-months prior to out-of-state travel.

The student if traveling alone must fill out the travel request form and have the Faculty

Mentor sign the form and attach the conference information two-months prior to out-

of-state travel and one-month prior to in-state-travel.

All travel is contingent on the availability of funds.

Required approval:

1. PASS Program Director/designee signs the request form once the approval is determined. If the request is denied then the PASS Executive Director/Designee will review and make the final determination.

2. The Dean of the appropriate college also needs to approve in CONCUR if

higher lodging is involved.

3. If it is a group trip a group number must be requested from the Travel office by the department submitting the travel in CONCUR. * SSS students may travel with a GPA of less than 3.0

2.0 PASS Faculty Mentor Accompanying PASS Student Travel Requirements:

Faculty mentors may request travel funds from the appropriate PASS program if they

are accompanying a PASS student to a conference. The faculty mentor must fill out the

travel request form and attach the conference information one-month prior to in-state-

travel and two-months prior to out-of-state travel.

The Faculty Mentor must include the conference acceptance letter/email.

No Faculty Mentor should submit more than one PASS program travel request for the

same conference. If a travel request is denied due to a lack of PASS program funds for

the program requested the Faculty Mentor can request that the travel request be

forwarded to another PASS program if appropriate.

All travel is contingent on the availability of funds.

Required approval:

1. PASS Program Director/designee signs the request form once the approval is determined by the budget person. If the request is denied then the PASS Executive Director/Designee will review and make the final determination.

2. The Dean of the appropriate college also needs to approve in CONCUR if higher

lodging is involved.

3. If it is a group trip a group number must be requested from the Travel office by the department submitting the travel in CONCUR.

3.0 PASS Faculty Mentor Professional Development

The process for requesting travel funds from PASS programs is the same for professional development as other conferences but a different travel request form must be submitted which requires additional information.

4.0 Graduate School Visit

Students who need to visit a potential graduate school to determine enrollment may

request funds for travel. There are limited funds available for this purpose so the travel

request form must be approved and signed by the Faculty Mentor. Based on the

request and the availability of funds the Program Director will make the determination

and notify the student. The student must have at least a 3.5 GPA

Must be current on Program Agreement Requirements

No MCNR students will be able to request travel opportunities until their research is complete.

5.0 Allowable Costs (all expenses require receipts)

Conference registration for Faculty Mentor and PASS project student

Conference hotel or other approved hotel and hotel fees

Meals during conference travel

Transportation: airline tickets, car rental, taxi/shuttle

Baggage fees

Internet access for work or school

6.0 Non-Allowable Costs

Tips/Gratuities

Personal expenses

Alcohol

7.0 Faculty Mentor College Department Process

After PASS project approval the Faculty Mentor and/or student will submit the approved

trip form to their academic department for completing the arrangements in CONCUR

utilizing the appropriate PASS account number. No CONCUR arrangements should be

made without the PASS approval form.

SOAR students submit the appropriate forms to the SOAR Business Coordinator.

MCNR students attending a McNair Conference submit the appropriate forms to the

MCNR Program Manager who will review and forward to the Business Manager.

No cash advances can be authorized for Mentors/Students.

All travel is contingent on the availability of funds.

8.0 Faculty Mentor/Student Reconciliation Process

Faculty Mentor/Student must turn in all receipts to the department that processed the

AR within three business days after arrival back in Corpus Christi. No reimbursement

will be processed without receipts.

Any allowable expense not charged to the TAMUCC Travel Card will be reimbursed

through the reconciliation process.

The reconciliation of the travel will route through PASS and the Division of Research,

Commercialization and Outreach.

9.0 Student Travel Orientation

All students must attend a one-time 15-20 minute travel orientation with the appropriate program Business Coordinator/Designee prior to travel. This orientation will include:

Common Travel Issues Forms Review All travel Documents

McNair Scholars Program

Policy and Procedures

Title: Participant Folder Organization and Maintenance

Effective Date: March 1, 2012; Revision Date: July 17, 2015

Policy: The McNair Scholars Program periodically ensures that appropriate documentation is collected and maintained. The documentation is organized in a consistent fashion in order to ensure ease of inspection by compliance officers, institutional officials, site visitors, and auditors.

Those Affected: All employees assigned to the McNair Scholars Program Purpose: To describe the organizational structure of participant files for the

McNair Scholars Program; to specify requirements for maintaining and securing participant files.

1.0 Organization of Participant Files 1.1 McNair Scholar Program files must comply with program regulations

regarding “recordkeeping” (McNair, see 34CFR647.32(c). 1.2 Each McNair file must contain a completed, signed, processed, and

approved application. This application must appear as the top item on the left side of the file. Additionally all files must be divided into six (6) main sections through the use of dividers. The text for each divider and the contents of each file section are noted in the following tables including the order the items should follow.

Section 1 McNair Participant Folder Admission Information

Application Form

Student Personal Statement

Needs Assessment

Two Faculty Recommendations

Transcript GPA Verification Form

Clearinghouse Data At admission and each semester

Admission Letter Participant Update Information Form

Section 2 Participant Progress & Agreement Forms

Project Services Participant Progress & Agreement Forms Divider Individual Educational Plan (IEP)

Participant Agreements

GPA Transcripts Class Schedules (Updated each semester)

Exit Interview Letters From Graduate Schools

Section 3 Program Assignments

Research Qualifications Divider Draft Article Discussion/Results Methods/Data Analysis Literature Review IRB (CITI) Training

Cultural Events Service Events Academic Programs

Tutoring Request Forms

Fin. Aid Literacy Certificate

Grad School Requirements Divider School List CV/Resume Personal Statement Graduate Exam Scores

Section 4 Conferences

Conferences Divider Abstracts

Power Points Poster Template

Conference Acceptance Notifications

Conference Information/Agenda

Section 5 Summer Research

Research/Inter-nship Divider

Research Action Plan(RAP)

Research Materials Form (If applicable)

IRB Application and Approval letter (if applicable)

Research Article Draft

Research Mentor Approval Submission Form

Section 6 Notes/Letters

Notes/Contacts Emails/Letters All Additional Correspondence

2.0 Maintenance of Participant Files (Services Provided Section) 2.1 Timetable for documentation of services provided

No later than 30 days after a service is rendered to a McNair participant, the service must be annotated in the:

Participant’s file; and

Project database.

2.2 Organization of documentation of services provided in participant files

In participant files, annotations of services provided must be in reverse chronological order with the most recent notation on top.

2.3 Assignment of service codes in documentation of services provided

A service code must be assigned to each service provided. This service code must appear with each annotation of the service that appears in the participant’s file and in the project database. Service codes for McNair will be identical to the field numbers and names that appear in the Participant List for the program’s Annual Performance Report (see fields #26 - #36 in 2013-2014 McNair APR).

26-Research or other Scholarly Activities

31- Admission Assistance to Graduate School

36-Conferences, Presentations, Graduate School Visits, and Teaching Related Experience

27-Summer Internships 32-Financial Aid Assistance

28-Seminars/Workshops and other Educational Activities

33-Education or Counseling to Improve Fin. Literacy

29-Tutoring 34-Mentoring

30-Academic Counseling 35-Culture Events/Academic Programs

Note: If two or more services are provided on the same date, each service must be documented and each must be assigned its own service code.

2.4 Annotation of information

Annotations that are informational in nature must not be documented as services

in either the participant file or the project database. Furthermore, these annotations must not be assigned service codes.

2.5 Identification of service providers and information recorders

Alongside each annotation of services or information that a staff member places into a participant file, the staff member must clearly and legibly sign his or her initial and last name.

3.0 Maintenance of Participant Files (Educational Progress Section) 3.1 Timetable for documentation of progress

The Education Progress section must contain records of all grades earned by the participant (e.g., transcripts) from their date of project entry to the end of the most recently completed academic semester. This section will include graduation documentation.

3.2 Organization of documentation of progress

Records of grades must be organized in chronological order. 4.0 Participant File Security 4.1 File Location

All participant files must be maintained in a secure file cabinet. Cabinet keys are assigned to each staff member and maintained in a secure location. Any files

being worked on by a staff member must be in their sight at all times and no participant information should be in public view. 4.2 File Transfers to Non-McNair Staff at TAMUCC Under no circumstance can an original participant file leave the security of the McNair office. If other entities need to view the participant file it must be done within the McNair office and only with the approval of the McNair Director or the VP for Student Success. If a participant file needs to be viewed outside the McNair office then it must be a copy. TAMUCC staff who need a participant file and have a valid reason may copy the file in the McNair office once approved by the McNair Director or VP for Student Success. All requests need to be in writing and have a detailed security process in writing. 4.3 Non-TAMUCC Participant File Access Anyone outside of TAMUCC staff (such as auditor’s access) needs approval by the McNair Director or VP for Student Success. The process will be determined by the McNair Director or VP for Student Success which provides for file security.

McNair Scholars Program

Policy and Procedure

Title: McNair Scholars Program Service Documentation

Effective Date: January 2, 2013 Revised: August 4, 2015 Policy: It is the policy of McNair Scholars Program to accurately document all

services provided to students.

Those affected: All individuals who participate in the McNair Scholars Program and staff.

Purpose: To detail the services provided documentation process.

1.0 Complete list of all required services and other non-mandatory

Services

§ 647.4 What activities and services does a project provide?

(a) A McNair project must provide the following services and activities:

(1) Opportunities for research or other scholarly activities at the grantee institution or at

graduate centers that are designed to provide students with effective preparation for

doctoral study.

(2) Summer internships.

(3) Seminars and other educational activities designed to prepare students for doctoral

study.

(4) Tutoring.

(5) Academic counseling.

(6) Assistance to students in securing admission to, and financial assistance for,

enrollment in graduate programs.

(b) A McNair project may provide the following services and activities:

(1) Education or counseling services designed to improve the financial and economic literacy

of students, including financial planning for postsecondary education.

(2) Mentoring programs involving faculty members at institutions of higher education, students,

or a combination of faculty members and students.

(3) Exposure to cultural events and academic programs not usually available to disadvantaged

students.

(4) Other activities designed to meet the purpose of the McNair Program in § 647.1.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1070a-15) [75 FR 65794, Oct. 26, 2010]

2.0 All mandatory services are numbered according to the following list:

26 Research Activities/Scholarly Activities

27 Internships

28 Seminars/Workshops and other Educational Activities

29 Tutoring

30 Academic Counseling

31 Admission Assistance to Graduate School

32 Financial Aid Assistance

35 Conferences

36 Other can include: Conferences, Presentations, Graduate School Visits, and

Teaching Related Experience

2.1 All optional services list:

33 Education or Counseling to Improve Financial and Economic Literacy

34 Mentoring

35 Exposure to Cultural Events and Academic Programs

3.0 Record Documentation

All services will be documented by the Manager or designee in the notes section of the

participant file. The entry will begin with the service code number with a date included.

Then the service title should be entered. Then enter the detailed information about the

service provided and state the reference in the section below the detailed service. If the

service is a McNair workshop then state Sign-In Sheet Notebook. If the service is

counseling the student should sign their name next to the reference section. For all

other services state at the end of the note the number of the file section where the proof

of service is located.

4.0 Database Services Input

The Administrative Assistant or designee will review all active student files each

semester for needed input to the Access Database. All new service data will be placed

into the Student Access Database.

McNair Scholars Program Policy and Procedure

Title: McNair Scholars Program Tutee Request & Service Procedure Effective Date: January 2, 2013 Revised: July 27, 2015 Policy: It is the policy of McNair Scholars Program to provide efficient, caring, and

professional services for all participants including tutoring services if needed by the participant.

Those affected: All individuals who participate in the McNair Scholars Program and need tutoring.

Purpose: To detail the tutoring request and service process. 1.0 Tutoring Overview

Students in need of tutoring should meet with the McNair Manager or Director to determine what tutoring should be requested based on student academic needs. Students must be currently enrolled in classes at TAMUCC, in need of extra help in understanding course material, or preparation for graduate school entrance exams. All requests are subject to funding availability. McNair Scholars Program staff will explain the services and resources available to the participant.

2.0 Tutoring Request Form Submission and Authorization

Students should complete each section of the tutoring form based on student academic needs. Completed requests will be authorized by Manager. Any inappropriate requests will be returned to the initiating staff for clarification, referral, or denial.

3.0 Tutoring Referral

The student will be referred to appropriate tutoring free of charge. After the student receives free tutoring, the student will then have the tutor sign his/her initials on the appropriate section of the tutoring form. The student will return the completed tutoring form to the Manager. The Manager will then log the request on the Tutor Referral Tracking spreadsheet.

The Manager will notate all requested tutoring subjects in the Individual Educational Plan (IEP)

in the tutoring section of the IEP. A copy of the approved tutoring request will be filed in the tutoring notebook.

4.0 Reconciling reports

At the end of each semester the Manger will obtain completed tutoring reports from the

appropriate offices. Then he/she will note in the student file on the contact form all tutoring information using the appropriate code and title. A copy of tutoring reports will also be filed in the tutoring notebook. The Senior Secretary will input the data to the Student Access Database at the end of each semester.

1 E:\DAE\2013 NUTS AND BOLTS GRAD SCHOOL PACKET 2012.doc

The Nuts and Bolts of the

Graduate School Application

Process

2 E:\DAE\2013 NUTS AND BOLTS GRAD SCHOOL PACKET 2012.doc

TIME LINE FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL/SCHOLARSHIP/FELLOWSHIP APPLICATIONS PROCESS

SPRING, JUNIOR YEAR

JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY

*Identify schools and scholarships

SUMMER, JUNIOR YEAR FALL, SENIOR YEAR SPRING, SENIOR YEAR

JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY

*Finalize

school and

scholarship

choices

*Take GRE

*Get

applications

*Retake GRE if

necessary

*Complete

personal

statement

*Complete

CV/resume

*Organize

application

materials

using table

and checklist

provided

*Provide packet

to recommenders

*Request

transcripts

from all

schools

attended

*Collect letters

*Set-up campus

visits

*Collect letters and

write thank yous

*Finalize apps, save

electronically, and

send

*Wait for responses

*Set up campus and departmental visits

*Prepare for graduation

NOTE – DEADLINES VARY BETWEEN AND WITHIN INSTITUTIONS. PAY

ATTENTION AND BE PRO-ACTIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

G

R

A

D

U

A

T

I

O

N

!!!!!!!!!!!!

PLEASE NOTE: Due dates will vary depending on the school/scholarship.

IMPORTANT: Adhere to the dates specified in individual application materials.

3 E:\DAE\2013 NUTS AND BOLTS GRAD SCHOOL PACKET 2012.doc

GRADUATE SCHOOL APPLICATIONS CHECKLIST

GRAD SCHOOL APPLICATIONS FINANCIAL AID DEPARTMENT UNIVERSITY/PORTABLE FEDERAL

UNIVERSITY

BO

OK

MA

RK

ED\I

N H

AN

D

DEA

DLI

NE

FEES

PER

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AL

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TEM

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GR

E SC

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ENT

TRA

NSC

RIP

TS O

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TRA

NSC

RIP

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HA

ND

TRA

NSC

RIP

TS S

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LETT

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OF

REC

OM

MEN

DA

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PLI

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ENT

AP

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CA

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RA

/TA

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AP

PLI

CA

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EA

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AP

PLI

CA

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N S

ENT

SCH

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RSH

IP A

PP

(SA

) IN

HA

ND

SA C

HE

CK

LIST

IN

ITIA

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(PA

CK

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SA D

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SA C

OM

PLE

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SA S

ENT

FED

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NA

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(FF

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4 E:\DAE\2013 NUTS AND BOLTS GRAD SCHOOL PACKET 2012.doc

INDIVIDUAL SCHOLARSHIP/FELLOWSHIP CHECKLIST FOR

(NAME OF SCHOLARSHIP/FELLOWSHIP)

TASK COMPLETED

1. Meeting/communication with fellowships/scholarship sponsor

2. Application typed

3. Essay(s) completed

4. Letters of Recommendation

a.

b.

c.

d.

5. Transcripts ordered, received

6. Resume/vita updated

7. Thank you letters/emails sent

a.

b.

c.

d.

8. Application mailed

To be photocopied as necessary.

5 E:\DAE\2013 NUTS AND BOLTS GRAD SCHOOL PACKET 2012.doc

How to Succeed in Getting Great Letters of Recommendation for

Graduate School

Choose your recommender carefully – if you only had one class with him/her, please reconsider. If you have any questions regarding what the person will write, again, you might want to reconsider. Remember, you want a glowing letter.

Once you have chosen the person and have asked if they would be willing to write letters, provide for them the following

packet: o Cover letter – to include – thanks in advance, what is included in the packet, and exactly what you want in clear

and concise language. Indicate for each school when the letters must be mailed or picked up by. You might want to shorten the deadline if the individual has the tendency to procrastinate. Remember, some schools award funds based on first-come-first-served basis.

Always allow 2-4 weeks for them to write the letter. For example, “I am applying to three schools:

1. Yale – please fill out the online form after you receive the registration email. This should occur prior to 12.01.13.

2. CSU-, please fill out form, add a short narrative on letterhead, and seal in the official CSU envelope. Please sign the back of the envelope and call me at the following number by 12.1.13. I will come and pick it up as all information has to be mailed together in one envelope;

3. Harvard – please write a letter on letterhead, seal, sign on back, and mail to the address on the attached form, please send before 11.14.13.

o Curriculum Vitae/ Resume – short, one to two pages o Personal statement o Forms and envelopes for each school

separated in some way (clips, colored paper, file folders). o Put all of the above in a file folder, binder, etc.

make the package as neat as possible