Testimonials

"I had the privilege of being a part of the Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) during my undergraduate studies at the University of Kansas (KU) where I received my bachelor’s in chemical engineering. Going into KU as a first generation student I did not know about the research opportunities available to me . The MARC program introduced me to in depth research through the financial support that allowed me to quit my part time job and inspired me to go to graduate school. The seminars provided me with information on how to preform research ethically and expanded my network of people in my field through conversations with industry expertise. Most importantly, the mentorship I have received through the MARC program encouraged and supported my journey to graduate school even in the most difficult circumstances I faced in undergrad with the passing of my grandfather. It is through MARC how I learned about applying to graduate programs, presenting at conferences, how to look for the right program and applying for graduate student grants. The MARC program has supported me ever since I joined, and I know I can count on the program and my mentors now and for the rest of my journey through academia.  The MARC program made going to graduate school accessible and has pushed my development as a researcher forward, without the skills and advice I gained from this program I would not be here today. MARC is responsible for creating many great scientists, engineers and leaders." 

Kayla Castillo, MARC Alumni

"As a transfer student from Johnson County Community College, I encountered financial burdens and uncertainty as I was ill-equipped to transition into a four-year institution. Upon arriving at the University of Kansas, I was interested in research but needed to learn how to integrate into a lab. I felt lost in an environment that held so much weight for my future. Through word of mouth, I learned about the NIH's MARC program, which aims to promote participation in the biomedical research workforce. This honors program fostered my interest in research while also helping me financially, allowing a smooth transition, supporting my interests, and expanding my practical knowledge. I earned credit in a publication, presented at a research conference, attended professional development courses, and received support in navigating higher education.” 

Josh McGhee, MARC Alumni

"Through MARC, I received not only financial support, which allowed me to graduate with less debt than the average student, but also access to invaluable mentorship and hands-on research opportunities. I was given the chance to work on impactful projects, like isolating circulating tumor cells, which honed my technical skills and fueled my passion for making a difference in the world of science. Beyond the research, MARC created a community of students from diverse backgrounds, all striving for the same goal. I found mentors who believed in me, and that made all the difference...The MARC Program didn’t just change the course of my college education, it gave me the ability to make a difference in the world of science, and it’s a legacy that I hope will continue for others to benefit from, just as I have."

Taryn McNickle, MARC Alumni 

"Without the Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) program at the University of Kansas (KU), I would not have received the support and training I needed to get into a biomedical PhD program studying infectious disease. As a low-income, first-generation college student, I had no connections in academia, nor did I know how to prepare for a career as a scientist. With the financial support of MARC, I was able to devote over two and a half years investigating antibiotic resistance in one of the most drug-resistant bacterial pathogens facing the healthcare system today. Without the support of MARC, I would have been required to seek additional employment which would have taken from my time in the lab. Having spent hours in the lab designing experiments, collecting data, analyzing results, and ultimately presenting and publishing my findings, I have made so many connections that have gotten me to where I am today – a second year PhD candidate. Without the KU MARC program, I would not have had the opportunity to answer some of the many questions we have about how bacteria function – simply because I was born into a family that had not previously attended college. As a result of eliminating the funding of the MARC program at KU or any university around the country, current students attempting to break into science will suffer instead of contributing novel ideas in their respective fields and breaking past the bounds of what is known."   

Kade Townsend, MARC Alumni