The program exposes SIUC faculty to students from historically black universities as well as institutions with large minority populations, McNeil said.

The ten students were selected from a competitive pool of 32 applicants.

According to McNeil, applicants had to provide their grade point averages, transcripts and three letters of reference from their home institutions.

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The program will enhance the students’ academic potential and give them the confidence needed to attain higher education, McNeil said.

The Summer Research Opportunity Program will give them hope that attaining a graduate degree is achievable, she said.

Tawanda Greer, a senior in psychology from Bowie State University, said she participated in the program to gain research experience and to enhance her research skills.

She said she believes the program provides an edge for students to get into graduate school and find out more about various departments.

The diversity in the program has been a unique experience for Greer because she attends an all-black university, she said.

It is a whole different experience I have enjoyed the diversity, since I come from a historically black college, Greer said.

Christopher Fowler, a senior in sociology from Johnson C. Smith University, said he plans to attend SIUC’s Graduate School.

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The diversity in the program is an important factor, he said. It is a great experience we have learned a lot about each other.

Cherie Hawkins, a senior in zoology from SIUC, said the program is providing her with research experience that is almost vital to get into any post-bachelor’s graduate program.

It has allowed me to network with a lot of faculty who might have a major impact on my undergraduate and post-bachelor studies, Hawkins said.

SROP students receive tution and fee waivers, free room and board, partial reinbursment of travel cost, three hours of transferable academic credit and a $1,000 stipend.