NSF Comments

I applied for the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program last October. My application was reviewed by a panel of academic experts in the science, mathematics, or engineering discipline that identified in my chosen field of study. These are the comments that were made about three essays written by myself, and three letters of recommendation by my advisor, Dr. Diana Northup, and Dr. Anna-Louise Reysenbach. I rank in the 70th percentile for the range of applicants in the year 2008. I will try again this year, and use these comments to strengthen my personal statement, my future research plans, and my previous research experience. The NSF JAM 2009 Conference also helped me wrap my mind around the specific things that the NSF panels are looking for with these types of applications. Better luck this year!
Overall Assessment of Broader Impacts: Very Good
Explanation to the applicant:

By participating in a variety of undergraduate research opportunities and later participating in various out-reach activities you seve as an effective "scientific ambassador" within your community. Your application could be strengthened by elaborating a little more completely on your professional goals for the future
Overall Assessment of Intellectual Merit: Very Good
Explanation to the applicant:

Your previous research record is tied logically to your current investigation. Your research plan to compare microbial communities in marine and terrestrial settings is both worthwhile and original. Your application can be strengthened by providing more information on why/how you would expect these communities to compare.
Overall Assessment of Intellectual Merit: Good
Explanation to the applicant:

You are certainly a motivated, talented student and one who has moved forward in spite of facing adverse challenges. It is noted coming from a rural reservation area and accomplishing what you have thus far - is commendable. It is clear from your previous research experiences you have the passion, motivation and interdisciplinary understanding to plan and conduct a research project. You have built on previous research experiences to develop an original research project. It is noted in your letter of reference your ability to work independently as well as on a team and your development as a student. There is value to your research findings for a number of disciplines. You have worked to build your capacity in a number of science areas - to fully undertake the research proposal. It seems you have access to necessary resources - and have taken advantage of the STEM enrichment opportunities at the University of New Mexico (LSAMP, McNair etc.) to ensure your intellectual capacity in your Ph.D. You have drive and passion and these are critical traits for a researcher - partnered with your cultural background - there exists opportunities to support the oral history/Indigenous knowledge of the Navajo Nation. Your proposal would be strengthened by a stronger academic record as well as assurance you have access to sufficient resources.

Overall Assessment of Broader Impacts: Very Good
Explanation to the applicant:

You have been an active participant in programming focused on increasing the number of under-represented students and professionals in STEM. You have followed the pathway and it is noted you are maintaining active involvement in the next generation of students moving forward. The research experiences in England and the Atlantic Ocean sound to have created a motivation to pursue a Ph.D. It is understood you have developed a more global context to the broader impact of your research. You have developed a strong dissemination plan and have worked to present your research at local and national levels. Your proposal would be strengthened and more competitive with additional letters of support. Your letters of reference should provide specific examples of your research work, aptitude for and skills acquired during the experience.