When expecting, expect the unexpected

April 4, 2022

The journey of attending The 23rd National Conference for McNair Scholars and Undergraduate Research

“Whether or not you reach your goals in life depends entirely on how well you prepare for them and how badly you want them. You're eagles! Stretch your wings and fly to the sky." - Dr. Ronald E. McNair

Initial Expectations

Going into the the McNair Conference with zero expectations and understanding of what I was going to experience is an understatement of a century. I have attended many conferences before in the past in which I attended workshops, keynote speakers, and created stronger and new connections with the students in which I attended conferences with. Going into The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, I had no research experience or understanding of what graduate school consisted of and going into this conference created the same mindset of nervousness, excitement, and open-mindedness to the experience.

Conference Experience

“Before you can make a dream come true, you must first have one” - Dr. Ronald E. McNair

I had the opportunity to listen to several keynote speakers such as Dr. Kalisa Villafana, Dr. Marisa Franco, and Dr. Ronald Williams. I was able to view poster presentations, oral research presentations, attend workshops such as the GRE prep, student success, etc. All of which gave insight as to what I could use as tools for success in my future with research, grad school, and overall application in life. Alongside these conference events I was able to try new foods and drink, explore the University of Maryland College Park and explore various buildings such as the several libraries, campus mall, and psychology building. I was also able to travel to Washington D.C. with the McNair group and visit national monuments for the first time. My experiences and memories during this conference is applicable to the process and motivation towards my academic and career goals.

Main Takeaway

Overall, from the time being at the conference I learned a lot of insightful information about research and the process of understanding where I’m at and where I want to go.I believe one of the most impactful and inspiring events for me included the keynote speaker sessions, I find that these talks were not only informative but resonated with myself. I found inspiration within Dr. Kalisa Villafana’s talk and achievements as she is the first black woman to get a PhD in physics to go above and beyond what many wouldn’t see as the norm. As well as the inspiration from Dr. Marisa Franco’s knowledge as an assistant clinical professor and information she shared on mental health and the benefits of staying mentally healthy. The 23rd National Conference for McNair Scholars and Undergraduate Research has exceeded my expectations and brought profound insight and learning experiences that I will use to benefit my achievement and future success as a McNair Scholar.