Dr. Danae Quirk Dorr, assistant professor of chemistry, mentors Mark Thompson, a McNair Scholar, as they research the interaction between an anti–cancer agent and DNA.
The McNair Achievement Program (MAP) faculty mentors dedicate their time and energy to ensure that their partnered student–scholars succeed in doctoral programs after graduating from Minnesota State Mankato. But every once in a while, a pair comes along that not only meets the overall goals of the program, but also uses the program in a way that truly benefits both the student and the professor.
According to MAP Director Laura Bartolo, undergraduate student Mark Thompson and his mentor, Dr. Danae Quirk Dorr, assistant professor of chemistry, are the perfect example. "They are the classic example of a mentor/mentee relationship that is just working from all angles," explains Director Bartolo.
Thompson's potential and drive to succeed were evident to Dr. Quirk Dorr from the start. "Mark has a strong initiative and the drive to do what needs to be done in the research process," she says. The duo is currently exploring an anti–cancer agent and how it interacts with DNA. Because of Thompson's dedication and time commitment to the research, Dr. Quirk Dorr trusts his reactions and the results he obtains while working alone. "This is the first time that I've been able to work with a student with this many hours dedicated to research," says Dr. Quirk Dorr. "It's nice to work at such a good pace and make so much progress so quickly."
But the success of their partnership may also be attributed to her ability to teach Thompson the steps to find a solution, rather than simply handing him the answers. "This is good preparation for graduate school because they won't be holding your hand through it," says Thompson. Director Bartolo agrees, "Dr. Quirk Dorr really has a future orientation. She's looking toward what lies ahead and giving Mark the building blocks he needs now to reach those goals."
Thompson's future goals include pursuing his doctorate in an area related to biochemistry. Eventually he would either like to teach or direct a research lab, and he feels that MAP has given him the opportunity to pursue his ambitions. "I like how open they are," says Thompson. "They allow you to do what you want and are there to help you when you need it. They provide you with all the tools you need to get into graduate school. You just need to apply yourself and use those tools in order to be successful."
