Ishmael Nyame
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
My research focuses on the crucial role of migrant brokers in facilitating and controlling migration from Ghana to Qatar. While the study of brokers within the migration industry is not new, it has traditionally focused on brokers based in the origin countries, where aspiring migrants reside. What sets my study apart is that it examines brokers based in the destination country, Qatar, who liaise with aspiring migrants from Ghana and act as intermediaries in the process. This involved conducting in-depth interviews with Ghanaian migration brokers based in Qatar and migrants currently residing there. The primary objective was to gain insights into the roles, experiences, and strategies employed by brokers in facilitating migration, providing a comprehensive understanding of their practices.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
I was born and raised in Accra, Ghana, in a diverse migrant community. In 2020, I attended Northwestern University’s Qatar campus, where I encountered discussions on COVID-19 and the migrant labor crisis linked to the 2022 World Cup. My interest in migration deepened as I integrated into local communities, noticing the crucial role of migrant brokers in Qatar. This experience enriched my understanding of migration’s complexities and fueled my ongoing fascination with the topic.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
My interest in pursuing interdisciplinary research is rooted in my fascination with migration studies and my extensive experience as a research assistant during my college years. My interest was amplified while at Northwestern University’s Qatar campus, where I encountered the significant migrant labor population and the pressing issues related to their experiences. The intersection of global health, labor rights, and socio-economic conditions that I observed underscored the need for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to address the multifaceted nature of migration. Throughout my college years, I held several research assistantship positions that allowed me to explore various aspects of migration and related fields. I worked on projects ranging from examining dementia-related policies in the GCC countries to analyzing the framing of migrant workers in the Qatar local newspapers during the FIFA 2022 World Cup. These experiences honed my research skills and deepened my appreciation for the value of interdisciplinary research in understanding and addressing complex global issues. By integrating diverse perspectives and methodologies, I am committed to contributing to a deeper understanding of migration and developing innovative solutions to improve the lives of migrants and minorities in general worldwide.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
My research journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Starting in my sophomore year at Northwestern University’s Qatar campus, I took on several research assistantship roles, each presenting unique challenges and learning opportunities. One of my earliest projects involved archival research of the operations of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) by gathering physical data from the Gulf Times Newspaper Archives (1979 – 2020). This required extensive data collection and statistical analysis from large databases like NexisUni, which sharpened my quantitative research skills and taught me the importance of meticulous data handling. Transitioning to a project on public health challenges (Dementia) among older people in the Middle East, I encountered the complexities of qualitative research. Another significant project focused on the belonging or inclusion of international students in Education City. Conducting interviews and focus groups, I learned how to design effective research questions, engage with participants sensitively, and analyze qualitative data to extract meaningful patterns and insights. This interdisciplinary study required synthesizing information from anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies, enhancing my ability to approach research questions from multiple perspectives. Throughout these experiences, I developed strong critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills. I also learned the importance of adaptability, ethical considerations in research, and the value of a collaborative approach. These skills have equipped me to tackle complex research problems and contribute effectively to the field of migration studies.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
For students interested in pursuing undergraduate research, my key advice is to start early and seek out opportunities proactively. Reach out to professors whose work interests you and express your desire to assist in their research. Take advantage of the many resources provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research. Stay organized and be persistent, as research often involves overcoming setbacks. Lastly, choose topics you are passionate about; this will keep you motivated and engaged throughout the challenging but rewarding process of research.