Where did you complete your Undergraduate Studies?
Gonzaga University
What degree are you working toward?
I am working toward a Ph.D. in American Studies with a focus on Critical Ethnic Studies.
Why did you choose graduate school at IU Bloomington?
I chose IU Bloomington because of the financial support that graduate students receive to complete their degrees. In addition, IU helped me cater my graduate program to my interests. For example, PhD students are required to minor in another field other than their major. I minored in Sociology and this helped me develop the advanced research skills that I need to go out into the field. As interdisciplinarity becomes more important in creating knowledge about our world, I found that IU was one place that valued this type of work by requiring students to choose a minor.
What's been your favorite academic accomplishment since you've been here?
Because of the support I was able to receive from the University Graduate School, the professors at IU, and the Center for Research on Race and Ethnicity in Society, I was able to advance towards candidacy in a timely matter. I took summer school classes that IU provided me the structural opportunities and support to make this happen.
What do you enjoy most about life in Bloomington?
I found a supportive community in Bloomington. While it took some time to make connections with people acclimating to Bloomington, I am happy to say that I found several people who share similar interests and values as me and who are also aiming to complete their graduate degrees. I particularly enjoy Bloomington in the summer. Campus is beautiful and there is a sort of creative energy that fills the air that inspires us to create and collaborate on projects designed for the fall.
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