UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH BLOGS
The Office of Undergraduate Research sponsors a number of grant programs, including the Circumnavigator Club Foundation’s Around-the-World Study Grant and the Undergraduate Research Grant. Some of the students on these grants end up traveling and having a variety of amazing experiences. We wanted to give some of them the opportunity to share these experiences with the broader public. It is our hope that this opportunity to blog will deepen the experiences for these students by giving them a forum for reflection; we also hope these blogs can help open the eyes of others to those reflections/experiences as well. Through these blogs, perhaps we all can enjoy the ride as much as they will.
EXPLORE THE BLOGS
- Linguistic Sketchbook
- Birth Control Bans to Contraceptive Care
- A Global Song: Chris LaMountain’s Circumnavigator’s Blog
- Alex Robins’ 2006 Circumnavigator’s Blog
- American Sexual Assault in a Global Context
- Beyond Pro-GMO and Anti-GMO
- Chris Ahern’s 2007 Circumnavigator’s Blog
- Digital Citizen
- From Local Farms to Urban Tables
- Harris Sockel’s Circumnavigator’s Blog 2008
- Kimani Isaac: Adventures Abroad and At Home
- Sarah Rose Graber’s 2004 Circumnavigator’s Blog
- The El Sistema Expedition
- The World is a Book: A Page in Rwand
Sydney, Wollongong, Katoomba: beauty everywhere!
It’s my second to last night in Sydney, and I can’t believe how the time has flown by! I’ve spent the last few days hopping around different neighborhoods (what Aussies call suburbs) and nearby cities (what I would call suburbs) for research, with some fun in between.
On Tuesday, I took the bus to the northern suburbs for an interview with experts at WIRES, a wildlife rescue NGO. Their organization was completely transformed by the influx of funding/attention during the Black Summer Fires in 2019/2020, which killed an estimated 3 billion animals. After spending a few hours at their headquarters, I took the bus to nearby Manly and Sydney Harbour National Park. The highlight was catching the sunset at North Head, where you can see all of Sydney to your right and the endless Pacific to your right. The pictures don’t do it justice. I took the ferry back from Manly Wharf to the city, which seems to be a very popular route among tourists and commuters alike. Over the course of the day, I took four buses, two light rails, and one ferry — I think I could take Sydney’s public transport all day long and never get tired of it!
The view of Sydney Harbour from North Head.
The view from Long Reef Beach, which was recommended to me for its tide pools.
On Wednesday, I took a longer train ride down to Wollongong to meet with an academic expert. I felt surprisingly at ease at another college campus — the abundant eucalyptus trees next to large brutalist buildings reminded me of my hometown of Berkeley, CA. My only qualm is that there was no Tech Room Finder: I was almost late for the interview after getting lost in the basement of the science building. I also spent some time at the Wollongong Botanical Garden, where the kookaburras were so loud it was hard to think! But the highlight of my day was the train ride home, which took me along the coast during sunset. There’s almost too much beautiful nature here in Australia; it makes me sad I won’t have time to see it all. I guess that’s a pretty good excuse to come back!
The view of the Three Sisters!
On Thursday, I checked off a major bucket list item by traveling to the Blue Mountains. I wanted to go last weekend, but my back injury thwarted my plans. However, after talking to an interviewee who lives in the area about fire prevention measures they have in towns near the national park, my interest was renewed. It was a two-hour train ride to Katoomba, the most accessible entry point for carless travelers such as myself. As a Californian, I was pretty skeptical about these Australian “mountains” — but, to my surprise, Katoomba felt like a proper mountain town. Stepping onto the train platform, it was at least 10 degrees colder than by the coast (cold enough that I had to buy a beanie). The town center seemed to have only three kinds of businesses: mountaineering/outdoors shops, ecletic antique stores, and quirky brunch spots (including one infamously run by a cult). After walking 20 minutes through town and 20 minutes through the rural residential area, I made it to the Three Sisters, a (rightfully) famous rock feature and viewpoint of the park. The Blue Mountains reminded me of the Grand Canyon in its vastness and the Black Hills in its rich, dense forests. Looking out from the cliffside, it’s clear why they’re called “blue,” but dipping into the treeline reveals a colorful ecosystem full of life.
Katoomba Falls, the endpoint of my short hike.
A (slightly blurry) look at the hike along the ridgeline of the Blue Mountains — full of life from forest floor to canopy!
In another world, I would have loved to do a proper hike into the canyon, but my back injury only permitted a light walk along the boardwalk. Still, I am incredibly grateful I got to visit the Blue Mountains. For research purposes, it was invaluable to visit a rural town with a real risk of fire disaster — seeing burn marks on the side of the mountains is a crucial reminder (to both me and the locals) of the high stakes of this issue. And witnessing such natural beauty is uniquely humbling, awe-inspiring, and rejuvenating. I feel immensely grateful to experience all these beautiful places in one lifetime. And this is only the beginning!
On Monday, I’ll start the multi-day trek to Athens, Greece, which will undoubtedly bear its own beauty and adventures. But for now, I’m soaking up my final days in Sydney. Thank you, Australia, for a magical visit — I’ll see you next time!
Sydney: Some road bumps
Hi everyone!
Unfortunately, the past few days in Sydney have been a little bumpier than my first one. My back started to hurt during my Saturday morning run — over the course of an hour, the minor aching turned into excruciating pain that left me unable to walk, sit, or lie down.
I’ve been mentally preparing myself for things to go wrong on this trip since I started planning in January. And yet, this kind of injury was not on my bingo card! It was incredibly scary to feel physically stuck in such an unfamiliar context, especially while traveling alone. I’ve had similar problems with my back before, but always when I was home with friends or family to help me do basic tasks and with doctors more readily available. I had already started to feel homesickness creep in the day before, and the pain in my back felt like an ugly reminder of how far I was from the people and places that help me feel safe.
However, this situation forced me to practice the self-growth I have been looking forward to on this trip. I relied on strangers in my hostel for help, a form of self-advocacy I’ve always struggled with. In making my way to the nearest urgent care clinic despite not being able to stand up straight, I accomplished what I had thought was impossible. By lying in bed for several days (even when I REALLY didn’t want to), I learned to prioritize rest and self-care. And I practiced gratitude in spite of myself: I’m so grateful nothing worse happened, I’m grateful for the doctors and strangers who helped when I needed it most, and I’m grateful for my amazing support system who were there for me through the hardest moments, even when 10,000 miles away.
On Sunday evening, I challenged myself to go on a walk. The rules: go slowly (even slower than you think you have to), stop when it gets painful, and stop when you aren’t having fun. I hoped to make it around my block once or twice at most. But I surprised myself — I made it all the way to the Opera House, one of my bucket list stops in Sydney! It was a powerful, hopeful reminder that everything will work itself out.
I’ll admit that this particular road bump poses some daunting questions about what the rest of this trip might look like. I suspect my back pain was a result of my heavy bags, long plane ride, and (to a lesser extent) travel stress — all factors that will be pretty unavoidable over the next few months. But handling this situation has helped me prove to myself that I can tackle these obstacles, no matter the gravity. I’m incredibly grateful for my renewed self-confidence and determination to have a spectacular, fruitful journey! To end on a liable note, enjoy some pictures of beautiful Sydney, which I will not hold liable for any back injuries : )
Bondi Beach to Congee Coastal Walk:
Surry Hills:
The Sydney Harbour Bridge (at sunset!):
First stop: Sydney
Hello from Sydney, Australia!
I’m currently sitting in my hostel bed (upper bunk, lucky me), still in a bit of disbelief that I am halfway across the world. After a minor visa scare at the San Francisco airport, an anxious wait in the international terminal, and a 14-hour red eye, I made it to my first country. I’m challenging myself to go to bed at a semi-normal time tonight in an attempt to boot my jet lag, so this blog post is an excellent way to pass the time.
I don’t know what I expected Sydney to be like. But whatever my expectations were, they were quickly surpassed. Sydney has the buzz of any major city, like Chicago, a temperate coolness, like my home in the Bay Area, and yet is engulfed with vibrant nature. One of my favorite parts of traveling is seeing new wildlife — not just in the proper “outdoors,” but in the city, too. After dropping my bags off, I spent all morning exploring nearby neighborhoods, and the scenery did not disappoint. Thick trees with tangled roots sprawl over the city streets; the canopies sing with birds, even in the winter. I spent part of my afternoon at the Australian Museum learning their names: long-billed ibises, striking black-and-white magpies, and even occasional cockatoos or kookaburras (if I’m lucky). Most apartment buildings have intricate metal balcony railings that seem uniquely designed to complement their surroundings. The city feels busy, yet intimate. I’m very excited to keep exploring tomorrow.
The time I didn’t spend walking around Sydney or eating delicious Pad Thai from Spice Alley (thanks for the rec, Zella!) was dedicated to grounding my research. My interviews are all scheduled for next week, but I was anxious to get ahead of my work. The majority of my visit to the Australian Museum was spent taking ethnographic notes — I have read several articles about fire management on their website and was curious to see what they had in person. About half of a gallery was dedicated to climate change, and the growing threat of bushfires received a few mentions there, but my most interesting takeaways were from the First Nation’s gallery. As you can imagine, the relationship between Aboriginal knowledge/practice and state authority is a crucial part of the conversation around fire management. The exhibit served as an important learning opportunity about the Garrigarrang nura creation story, the Ancestral Laws around land treatment, and how the museum (funded in part by the state and national government) treats and discusses Australia’s First Nations. For example, the first thing you notice when entering the building is a land acknowledgment paying respect to “Elders past and present” — the language of which was identical to the statement given when my plane touched ground in Sydney this morning. I don’t think the fact that the Australian government seems to have a state-sanctioned, copy-paste land acknowledgment is necessarily worthy of high praise, but it does reflect a vastly different relationship between Indigenous communities and the state than we see in the United States. I’m interested in how this will come up in my conversations next week.
In the meantime, I’ll be walking, hiking, and public-transporting all around New South Wales! I’m hoping to go to the Sydney Harbour tomorrow and the Blue Mountains this weekend. I’m proud of myself for taking the first big leap of this journey. Wish me luck on my adventures!
Gaby Nyambura
Gaby Nyambura
SURG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
I spent the summer studying Chicago Catholics who attend Mass in Latin. Until the late 1960s, rituals in the Roman Catholic Church, including Sunday Mass, were largely in Latin. The 1960s brought a series of monumental changes to Catholic way of life, including to aesthetics and approaches to various doctrines. This shift culminated in the introduction of a new Mass: one that could be said in vernacular languages and which had removed many of the prayers and rituals that had been in use for centuries. While majority of the world’s 1 billion Catholics have adopted this way of being Catholic, a small minority preserved the old Mass, and its members have created a unique subculture within global Catholicism. Latin Mass attendees are known for being liturgically, doctrinally and politically conservative. My project explored why they are a part of this community, how they think about various church teachings and contemporary issues, and how they think families and society should be structured. My methods included a survey that drew about 500 participants, interviews that drew about 150 interested participants, interviews with priests, and frequenting churches that offer the Latin Mass in Chicago. Traditional Catholicism has important implications for the Catholic Church, but also for our diverse and secular society. Much like Evangelical Protestantism created the Southern Bible Belt and Muslim immigration is shifting the culture in Michigan and Minneapolis, the steady growth of traditional Catholics will also impact the communities their members inhabit.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
I grew up immersed in both traditional and mainstream Catholic communities. The relationship between the two has been a topic of interest for me for some years now, but after coming to NU, I got overwhelmed by the abundance of opportunities here and initially thought I would do research in psychology. Working as a research assistant and taking a wide variety of classes helped me rule out what I didn’t like, and I concluded that this topic would make the most sense for me.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I’ve enjoyed social science and humanities classes, and since Cognitive Science is by definition an interdisciplinary major, studying it has given me an appreciation for the benefits of incorporating elements of other disciplines into research. This project was a great opportunity to weave my interests in Catholic Studies, History, Anthropology and a bit of Psychology.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
This was a very enjoyable experience. I must admit I dreaded every single one of my interviews because I’m intimidated by new people, but they all went very well! One of my interviewees even invited me to have dinner at their house. I’ve made new friends without having to actually socialize and have, after 3 long years, finally cracked the code on American small talk. If nothing else, this has been a great way to hone people skills and get free food (and money!). I’ve also gained valuable experience with Qualtrics and developed better interview, organization, transcription and writing skills.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
I’d strongly recommend talking to professors whose work or field you find interesting. They are extremely approachable, go the extra mile to help you and are happy to talk about their own experiences (as students and beyond). This is a great way to figure out what you like/dislike and how to streamline your interests into something workable. Also, Peter Civetta is a great resource. He’s genuinely interested in helping students, and a 20-minute conversation with him can be surprisingly productive even if you’re not sure how to get started.
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
My undying love for everything dairy except milk
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Robinson Crusoe
Sam Nielsen
Sam Nielsen
SURG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
My research focuses on the pattern left behind when a suspension of particles in water evaporates. This system is seen every day in the ring shaped stain left by drops of coffee spilled on the countertop.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
My project addresses an open question in the literature about the role of particle shape in the drying suspensions. I like that this system is one that occurs in everyday life, yet it still prevents a deep level of scientific interest.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I wanted to experience science on a level beyond taking classes. Undergraduate research provides an opportunity to become involved a scientific community, and through this involvement I was able to make an informed decision about my future career as a scientist.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
My experience with research has been incredibly fulfilling. I learned to navigate hiccups in my project by collaborating with the people in my lab. Research can be tricky at times, but there are lots of resources available to help guide you. Beyond all of the technical skills I acquired in my research, I am proud of how my communication skills improved during my research. T communicating with the scientific community surrounding me is what made it possible for me to get past the roadblocks I encountered.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
Research is absolutely worth pursuing as an undergraduate. Make sure to engage with your advisor and the people in your lab.
What would you name a boat if you had one?
SS Nielsen, cause it’s my initials and the generic boat name thing
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Thomas and the Magic Railroad was my favorite movie when I was little
Laila Simone Robinson
Laila Simone Robinson
ULG
What language did you study and why?
I studied Korean this past summer. The one thing that has remained a constant factor in my university experience is my dedication to the Korean language. It is the course that I work my entire schedule around because if there is anything that I absolutely want to accomplish before graduation, it is fluency in the Korean language. My interest in the language stems from an affinity for Korean media, specifically Korean variety shows. Now that I plan to work in the Korean entertainment industry as a costume designer, being able to speak Korean will serve as a valuable skill to connect the narratives of American and Korean culture.
What program did you attend and why did you choose it?
The Korean Intensive Language Program was an immersive language program hosted in Cheongju South Korea by American Councils. Apart from the intensive language study, being designated a language partner sparked my interest. Two times a week, we met with our assigned language partners to complete homework and converse together. Almost always, most of our group would go out together to cafes and restaurants to continue the conversation. Also, each week we went on cultural excursions that exposed us to both modern and traditional aspects of Korean culture. These felt like fun field trips to get us learning outside of the classroom.
Describe your experience doing summer language study. Was it tricky? How do you think your language skills improved?
This experience put me on the road of feeling exponentially more comfortable in engaging in dialogue using the Korean language. One of my points of improvement before I participated in this program was the need to strengthen my conversational and presentational skills. At first, when I was amongst the language partners who were all talking at each other in boisterous conversation, it was incredibly difficult to follow the conversation, much less trying to insert my own thoughts and opinions in the language. However, after allowing myself to relax and not worry about catching every single word, my comprehension skills started to improve. Knowing that I have the ability to casually engage/listen in conversation, this translates to me having more ease when presenting in Korean. In addition, my reading skills (speed and comprehension) have also improved exponentially. This has allowed me to move at a faster and more appropriate pace to match my classmates when engaging with the Korean language in context of news, literature, and movies.
Did intensive summer language study change or solidify any of your future goals? If so, how?
It absolutely did! After being abroad in South Korea for 8 weeks through KISLP, I know that in order to maintain my language skills, I need to fully immerse myself in the culture by living in South Korea. I was so sure that I chose to spend my last quarter at NU abroad in South Korea studying in the Clothing and Textiles department at Yonsei University. Not only will I be living in the language, but I will also be surrounded by peers in a similar field to my costume design background so that I can start networking to find a career in the costume design or fashion industry in South Korea!
Do you have any tips or advice for students similar to you that are interested in pursing intensive language study?
Make a fun reward/punishment system with your language-learning friends that encourages you all to speak the language outside of classes. For example, if you or one of your friends speak in anything other than your target language, you put your name in a “jar”; whoever has their name appear the least in the jar gets treated to dinner by the group; whoever has their name appear the most in the jar must wear a shirt with an embarrassing meme in the target language for a whole day. Having something that motivates you all to utilize the language as much as possible, even if it’s a little silly, will make language learning much more fun- plus you will be become more comfortable in casually speaking the language!
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Anything Junie B. Jones 🙂
My first blog post!
Hello everyone! My name is Lucia Barnum and I am ecstatic to be a Circumnavigator scholar this summer. In June, I will start my journey across the world, which will take me to Australia, Greece, Portugal, Ghana, Argentina, and Brazil.
As my departure creeps closer and closer, it’s hard to believe that the trip I’ve been dreaming about since September will soon be my reality. None of the trip planning I have poured over for months has helped me realize that I will be traveling around PLANET EARTH in a few short weeks. It’s a goal I once set for myself to accomplish before I die — I never would have believed it could be something I could do before graduating college.
I hope this blog will help me document my travels and reflect on my experiences. Although 12 weeks may seem like a long time, it will fly by in no time. But for now, see you in June!
Ishmael Bonsu Nyame
Ishmael Bonsu Nyame
ULG
What language did you study and why?
French – As a Ghanaian, my connection to the French language was established during my basic school education, where its use was strongly encouraged. During vacations, I delved into French literature, immersing myself in novels like “L’Enfant Noir” by Camara Laye and “Batuola” by René Maran. I also developed a deep appreciation for French-based sitcoms and West African musicians such as Serge Baynaud. This led me to a strong desire to improve my French-speaking, writing, and reading skills. Upon entering Northwestern University and pursuing a Journalism major, my career aspirations as an investigative journalist and researcher for the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) in West Africa became clear. This path necessitated a higher level of proficiency in the French language. It would enable me to delve into research areas like migration policies and allow me to fully immerse myself in the complex dynamics of French politics and its interactions with governments in West Africa.
What program did you attend and why did you choose it?
I had set my sights on enrolling in the Intensive French Language Program at the Cavilam Alliance Français in Vichy, France. The prospect of immersing myself in the heart of French culture, engaging with native speakers, and pushing the boundaries of my proficiency from an intermediate to an advanced level was deeply appealing. However, my journey took an unexpected turn when I faced challenges in obtaining a visa for France. This unforeseen setback forced me to reassess my study plan and explore alternative avenues for realizing my language learning goals. I explored online learning as a viable option. I enrolled with Alliance Francaise, Ghana, for their virtual French language program. This innovative platform offered a comprehensive curriculum that blended synchronous videoconferencing sessions through Zoom with interactive online modules hosted on the Canvas Instructure platform.
Describe your experience doing summer language study. Was it tricky? How do you think your language skills improved?
My summer language study experience in an online format was both challenging and rewarding. While it presented certain difficulties, it ultimately led to significant improvements in my language skills. The online format required self-discipline and autonomy. Navigating through the modules at my own pace demanded responsibility and time management. Virtual interactions via Zoom simulated real-life conversations, providing a diverse range of contexts for practicing spoken French. This challenged me to think on my feet, respond in real time, and build confidence in speaking a foreign language. There were moments of frustration and uncertainty due to technical glitches, connectivity issues, and the lack of face-to-face interactions. However, these challenges became opportunities for problem-solving and personal growth, teaching me to adapt, innovate, and persevere. Success in this unconventional learning journey hinged on my attitude and approach. I engaged with enthusiasm, actively participated in discussions, and sought opportunities for practical application of my linguistic skills outside the virtual classroom. I furthered my learning by participating in verbal practice sessions with tutors and engaging in conversation practice.
Did intensive summer language study change or solidify any of your future goals? If so, how?
Participating in intensive summer language study had a significant impact on my future goals. The challenges I encountered during this experience prompted me to reassess my approach to pursuing language proficiency and achieving my aspirations. It reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the ability to turn adversity into opportunity.
As I look forward, my commitment to language proficiency remains steadfast. I plan to build on the momentum I gained during the summer by enrolling in both the Fall and Spring semesters at Georgetown University. My goal is to reach proficiency levels C1 and C2 in the French language, further refining my command of the language. This will enable me to qualify for graduate programs and participate in research projects, particularly in Francophone West African countries, where I will investigate migration-related issues. I have initiated an independent study program focusing on migration brokers facilitating migration from Ghana to Qatar, and I feel well-prepared to explore similar topics in neighboring French-speaking West African countries. My summer language study experience has solidified my determination to excel in this field and contribute meaningfully to the research and understanding of migration issues.
Do you have any tips or advice for students similar to you that are interested in pursing intensive language study?
If I were to offer advice to students similar to me who are interested in pursuing intensive language study, I would say it’s crucial to start by setting clear language learning goals. Choose a program that suits your goals and learning style, and if possible, immerse yourself in a location where the language is spoken for a real-world experience. Regular practice is key, so dedicate time daily to listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language. Engage with authentic resources like books, movies, and music to gain exposure to real language usage. Actively participate in classes and don’t shy away from asking questions. Create a consistent study routine, be patient with yourself, and persist through challenges. Seek support when needed from teachers, tutors, or peers. Embrace the culture and traditions tied to the language, and remember to adjust your approach as you progress. Stay motivated, celebrate your achievements, and enjoy the journey. If you have the opportunity, travel to a region where the language is spoken to put your skills to the test and gain real-world experience.
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
I could give a 10-minute presentation on “The framing of migrant workers in the media” This topic aligns with my interest and research knowledge, and I could cover fundamental concepts and their impact on various actors.
If your (speaking) voice were an instrument, what do you think it would be?
If my speaking voice were an instrument, it could also be likened to a viola. The viola’s slightly lower pitch and distinct timbre set it apart, just as my speaking voice can have its unique qualities and nuances.
Teagan LeVar
Teagan LeVar
Summer URG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
This summer, I researched how light availability and species’ order of arrival into a plant community impacts the competition between plant species commonly found in seed mixes used in oak woodland restorations. The specific metric I used to represent impacts of competition was the growth rates of the twelve species in the experiment.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
I love being out in nature, especially in the woods, and this research was aimed toward gaining knowledge to inform the most effective strategies for restoring damaged oak woodlands with seed mixes.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I’ve always loved science, and I feel that getting into research is one of the best ways for me personally to contribute to the world.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
There were definitely some tricky parts to the research, particularly figuring out how to move forward when things don’t go according to the original plan. By doing my research, I’m definitely better at adapting to changes, and I feel more confident in my skills as a scientist in general and being able to talk about scientific ideas.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
I would definitely say to take advantage of the resources offered by OUR. Also, I would say to reach out to any professors or researchers who you think work in a similar area to your interests. Even if you don’t know them, they will likely be willing to talk with you and offer help or advice for your research.
Olivia Pierce
Olivia Pierce
Summer URG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
The goal of my research project was to develop an educational resource document that would equip musicians to perform Black & African works in a culturally appreciative rather than appropriative way. I developed this document through conducting archival research, holding one-on-one interviews with Black artists, and performing qualitative ethnographic analysis of performance venues and events in Minneapolis and Chicago. I then co-produced a performance in New York City with Keepsake House, a collective for independent artists, where I introduced a completed draft to performers and audience members to gauge the document’s accessibility and utility.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
In 2022, my high school choir reached out to commission a choral arrangement of my original song “X-RAY,” which centers racism and police brutality. When I traveled home to direct the choir which was primarily white, the students expressed fears of cultural appropriation. After discussing this with the director, we realized that we needed to equip the performers with an educational background and historical context to effectively portray the message of the music. This experience motivated me to create a resource that would equip musicians with the tools to perform Black cultural works in an appreciative rather than appropriative way.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
My experiences with the Emerging Scholars Program made me interested in pursuing research in general. I’ve found research in the humanities to be very engaging, from Musicology to Art History and Performance Studies. I have really enjoyed archival work as well as in-person interviews because I’ve been able to combine my personal passions and experiences with research, which makes my work more fulfilling and educational.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
The hardest part of my research has been adapting my findings to make them more accessible beyond the world of academics. This project taught me that vulnerability and authenticity allows you to build authentic connections with others and share what you’ve learned in a productive way.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
You can absolutely conduct creative research that is still academic. I would recommend collaborating with others, because this will allow you to learn from and connect with other people in your field.
Do you have a podcast/documentary/piece of shareable media related to your research?
The livestream to the Sankofa show can be viewed here! https://www.keepsakehouse.com/shows/sankofa
If your (speaking) voice were an instrument, what do you think it would be?
A harp
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Sikulu and Harambe: By the Zambezi River
What was a memorable interaction that you had on campus this week?
I saw somebody dressed as Perry the Platypus for Halloween!