OUPI Welcomes First McNair Scholars to OU-Tulsa
The University of Oklahoma-Tulsa campus welcomed its first-ever McNair Scholar to campus this fall and is set to add three more scholars in the spring. The purpose of the McNair Scholars Program is to prepare students for doctoral graduate programs through involvement in research and other scholarly activities.
“Research allows students to experience firsthand the fulfillment that comes with being a participant in scientific advancement,” said Kent Teague, Ph.D., the Assistant Vice President for Research at OU-Tulsa. “McNair Scholars are vetted to have strong academic potential. It is an honor to be selected.”
The program is open to all juniors and seniors, with a preference to those who are in STEM majors. All four McNair Scholars for the 2024-2025 academic year at OU-Tulsa are earning their degrees with OU’s Polytechnic Institute (OUPI).
When cybersecurity major Shelbie Raney was invited to apply to the McNair Scholars Program, she was excited by the prospect of a research opportunity.
“I wanted to conduct research in some capacity after previous research experience,” said Raney. “It was one of the best decisions I made this year.”
Raney and her mentor, Muhammad Sajid Riaz, Ph.D., are developing an AI-enabled framework to detect respiratory diseases through cough sound analysis. Raney joined the project when she approached Riaz after he presented his work to her class. Riaz was happy to mentor Raney due to his undergraduate research experience.
“The resulting publication from my undergraduate research became a cornerstone of my success, helping me secure a fully funded scholarship for graduate studies and paving the way for my future achievements as a researcher,” Riaz said. “Witnessing the academic and personal growth of undergrad researchers is a reminder of the impact mentorship can have on shaping future researchers and professionals.”
Raney has found both the McNair Scholars Program and OUPI supportive throughout her research journey, including OUPI’s director, Teri K. Reed, Ph.D., and other faculty members. Raney’s positive experience has pushed her to promote undergraduate research to her peers.
“You don’t have to be perfect, so don’t let imposter syndrome stop you from applying for research opportunities,” said Raney. “You’re more capable than you think, and this is an excellent opportunity to grow your research skills.”
