The USC Mc Nair Scholars Program prepares academically talented undergraduates for graduate-level study ,with an emphasis on doctoral studies, through involvement in research, advising, mentorships, assistance with the graduate school application process, preparation for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and other scholarly activities. Participants are high-achieving students from historically underrepresented populations including first generation, low-income, and minority backgrounds. Annually, a cohort is recruited and a select group of students are awarded competitive stipends for summer research, they receive grants to fund participation in a research conference or to visit a prospective graduate program at a U.S. university, they acquire mentorship from faculty and graduate students, and they have opportunities to publish their research in academic journals.
The program is grant-based and sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. The grant is administered by the USC Office of the Provost, Office of Undergraduate Programs. In collaboration with campus faculty, staff, and resource centers, the program works closely with participants as they complete their undergraduate requirements and strongly encourages them to participate in research and enroll in graduate programs. The Program Specialist possesses significant advising, administrative, and liaison responsibilities. Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Program Specialist works collaboratively in implementing the day-today operations of the program, including the recruitment and selection of cohort class, ongoing advisement and academic preparation of scholars, identifying and building relationships with faculty mentors, managing data and student records, arranging facilities and scheduling activities, developing and editing a newsletter and journal, updating a website and making design suggestions, and planning for the program's Spring Course and Summer Research Institute. The Program Specialist will assist the Director in monitoring the budget and expenditures, collecting data and submitting timely reports, and supervising undergraduate and graduate student staff.
To apply, submit an online USC Application including a Résumé & Letter of Introduction/Interest.
