“When I think about what the McNair Scholarship means to me, I immediately reflect on what a special opportunity I’ve been given. I’m extremely fortunate to have received this academic award and feel it was instrumental in my successful freshman year. From my first time on campus as a Candidate to every time after as a Scholar, I’ve always experienced myself as a part of an expansive network of people pushing me to achieve things I never thought I could and never thought I would. I didn’t have to worry about the daunting financial burdens of college, so I could devote all my energy to taking advantage of all South Carolina has to offer. I’ve done a full year of research with my Top Scholar Mentor, made important connections in the university and beyond, and feel I’ve been able to make Columbia my real home away from home. I recognize the responsibility that comes with a scholarship of this magnitude, and I plan to use my hard work to show this understanding––and to show my gratitude to Bob and Janice McNair and the University of South Carolina. I believe the Top Scholar Program will allow me to reach new heights in my life, like one day becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. So, as we say so universally at this university, Spurs up!”