Sophia Chang
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
This past summer I studied the relationship between the Asian-Minnesotan community and policing and how this relationship is shaped by social movements. I conducted 8 in-depth interviews with Asian residents of the Twin Cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul), discussing opinions about the Asian American community and politics, as well as opinions about social movements such as Black Lives Matter and Stop Asian Hate.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
I grew up in Minneapolis, and throughout high school I worked with Asian community groups in St. Paul, so I have always been interested in the politics of the Asian American community in Minnesota. I also felt compelled to conduct my research due to the relevance that Minnesota holds in both the Black Lives Matter and Stop Asian Hate Movement.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I have always been interested in the complexities of the Asian American community, specially the politics of the community. The Asian American community is incredibly diverse and complicated in many regards. I often feel that there are large gaps in research that do not address the Asian community, or makes inaccurate generalizations that erases its complexities. I wanted to provide more nuance to the Asian American community through research, to more accurately represent the community, and also create research for my community. I want Asian Americans to have access to research that is relevant and interesting to them.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
I have greatly enjoyed my time with research this past summer, thought that doesn’t mean it has always been easy! Research required me to continuously hold myself accountable to deadlines, as well as a commitment to my work. I gained experience with problem solving, and learned to embrace the unknown in many ways. My research took me to unexpected places, my questions and framing changed over time. Instead of constraining myself to a pre-determined path, I learned to embrace change.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
I think the undergraduate research grant is a great opportunity for anyone interested in research. Before this past summer, I had no research experience. The support given to me was very helpful, and it also provided an opportunity for self-exploration. I also would strongly encourage people in the social sciences to pursue undergraduate research. Too often there is a perception that research is meant for the “hard sciences,” but research is really for everyone. Whatever your interests are, even if you lean more to the humanities, like myself, there is a way for you to research it!
Do you have a podcast/documentary/piece of shareable media related to your research? Post the link(s) to share here!
I was greatly inspired by a podcast that discusses Asian America, Time To Say Goodbye, specifically the episode featuring Naomi Murakawa, a professor of African American studies at Princeton University. “How to not think like a cop, with Naomi Murakawa” https://open.spotify.com/episode/5EvDWkXay9gwMpgJG8BL1V?si=09VE394-QQShZe0TF15t7w
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
I could give a 10 minute presentation off the cuff on the TV show Veep, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ masterful performance as Selina Meyer.
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
My favorite childhood story was The Little Red Hen