MARCOS Scholars Program
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Mentoring to Accelerate Retention and Change Outcomes in Science (MARCOS)
The MARCOS Scholars Program is a National Science Foundation (NSF) S-STEM program at 91桃色 that supports academically talented students with financial need who are pursuing degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Psychology (non-clinical).
MARCOS Scholars receive scholarships, dedicated faculty mentorship, and professional development opportunities designed to help them persist, graduate, and confidently pursue careers or graduate study in STEM fields.
NSF S-STEM Program
Grant Reference: NSF 25-514
Why Join MARCOS?
As a MARCOS Scholar, you’ll receive personalized support that extends far beyond the classroom.
Scholarships
Receive up to $15,000 per year based on Pell eligibility and demonstrated unmet financial need.
Dedicated Faculty Mentor
Work one-on-one with a faculty mentor who will help guide your academic journey, career planning, and long-term goals.
Priority Registration
Register for classes earlier so you can stay on track toward graduation.
STEM Learning Community
Take selected STEM courses alongside fellow MARCOS Scholars, building lasting friendships and a strong academic support network.
Professional Development
Participate in workshops and experiences that strengthen leadership, communication, and career readiness.
Research & Internship Support
Receive $500 stipends to participate in internships and undergraduate research experiences.
Travel Opportunities
Attend professional conferences, participate in field experiences, and explore graduate schools with program-supported travel funding.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for the MARCOS Scholars Program if you:
- Are a freshman or sophomore (fewer than 60 completed college credits)
- Are majoring in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Psychology (non-clinical)
- Complete the FAFSA and are Pell Grant eligible
- Have and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
The MARCOS Mentorship Difference
At MARCOS, mentorship goes far beyond academic advising.
Our faculty mentors are trained to build proactive, caring relationships that support your success both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you’re navigating coursework, balancing personal responsibilities, or planning for life after graduation, you’ll have someone invested in your success every step of the way.
Your mentor will help you:
- Navigate academic and personal challenges
- Connect with campus resources and support services
- Explore career pathways and graduate school opportunities
- Engage with faculty-led research projects
- Develop presentations, research posters, publications, and other scholarly experiences
Throughout the program, you’ll meet with your mentor at least twice each semester while also participating in grade check-ins, workshops, and other activities designed to keep you progressing toward your goals.
Program Outcomes & Impact
The MARCOS Scholars Program is committed to helping students succeed throughout their college journey and beyond.
Every component of MARCOS is designed to help students build confidence, develop meaningful relationships with faculty, gain valuable research experience, and graduate prepared for the next step in their STEM journey.
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Scholar Retention Goal
Supporting students from semester to semester through mentorship, financial assistance, and community.
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Scholar Graduation Goal
Helping Scholars stay on track to earn their degree and complete their STEM education.
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Graduate School & Career Placement Goal
Preparing students for successful careers or continued education in graduate and professional programs.
Current Application Status
Recruitment for Cohort 2 has concluded. The priority application deadline was June 30, 2026.聽The next recruitment cycle for Cohort 3 is expected to begin in Spring 2027.
To be considered during the next application cycle, students should:
1. Complete the FAFSA
2. Meet all eligibility requirements listed above
Leadership Team
Dr. Samantha Jewell
Program Director & Advisor
Dr. Erin Rider
MARCOS Advisor
Dr. Laura Naumann
Psychology Advisor
Dr. Kayla Bieser
Biology Advisor
Dr. El Hachemi Bouali
Biology & Environmental Science Advisor
Dr. Lance Hellman
Biology & Chemistry Advisor
Dr. Wendi Benson
We’re here to help
Questions?
Email: marcos.scholar@nevadastate.edu
Program Director
Dr. Samantha Jewell
samantha.jewell@nevadastate.edu
National Science Foundation Acknowledgment
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 2526880. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.