Two students from the University of South Carolina Beaufort took home awards of distinction
at the 2026 McNair Summer Research Conference, where they were recognized for scholarly
achievement and leadership.
USCB students Brittney Aquino and Cybella Migliaccio spent six weeks this summer in
Columbia as participants in the McNair Scholars Program. This program prepares promising
undergraduate students for doctoral studies through faculty mentoring, research opportunities,
academic enrichment and professional development.
Scholars complete independent research projects and present their findings at the
program's summer research conference, gaining experience that prepares them for graduate-level
study.
Brittney Aquino, a Biology major, received the Outstanding Research Award. The award honors students whose projects demonstrate rigorous academic inquiry, strong
methodology, and meaningful contributions to their field of study.
Mentored by Dr. Florencia Cornet, University of South Carolina Professor in the TRIO
Opportunity Scholars Program and HIP Communication and Instruction, Aquino looked
at the role of language concordance in clinical settings. Her research examines how
language barriers affect healthcare outcomes for patients with limited English proficiency,
particularly Spanish-speaking people in the United States.
Through surveys, interviews, and qualitative literature reviews, Aquino explored whether
patients who can communicate with healthcare providers in their preferred language
feel more comfortable asking questions, advocating for themselves, and returning for
follow-up care. Her research highlights how improved communication can reduce misunderstandings,
build trust between patients and physicians, and promote more equitable healthcare
access.
Aquino wrote to her USCB Honors advisor and USCB campus McNair advisor, Dr. Babet
Alvarez: "I can confidently say that I have changed for the better. I can't say that
it was easy, but I can say that I am a stronger student."
Cybella Migliaccio earned the Extra-Mile Award, presented to a scholar who consistently goes above and beyond in supporting fellow
students, engaging in program activities, and contributing to the McNair academic
community.
Migliaccio, a Psychology major, examined the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral
therapy (CBT) compared with community-based supportive counseling for adolescents
experiencing depression. Guided by faculty mentor Dr. Meeta Banerjee, Assistant Professor
of Psychology at the University of South Carolina Columbia, Migliaccio's study explored
both treatment approaches.
Drawing on existing research, Migliaccio found that while CBT remains standard for
treating adolescent depression, supportive counseling may be more accessible for many
young people. Her work highlights the importance of balancing evidence-based treatment
with practical access to mental health services, with the goal of improving care for
adolescents experiencing depression.
"It was a privilege to represent USCB," Migliaccio said.
Aquino and Migliaccio's relationships with their mentors will continue as they deepen
their research projects and present their findings at local, regional and national
academic conferences.
USCB consistently has students selected as McNair Scholars, in a testament to the
university's goal of reaching excellence through academic rigor and experiential learning.
