Here are a number of academic works I feel demonstrate my technical abilities as well as the range of tones I am able to work within.
Qualitative Research
This paper was the product of a qualitative research methods course for which I completed a semester-long research project gathering data through the use of semi-structured interviews. The course was a thorough introduction into the world of qualitative research and provided a solid foundation for the kind of research methodologies I would like to engage with further in the future. I approached the research using a feminist framework, incorporating my knowledge background both from sociology and gender studies.
Quantitative Research
This paper was written for a quantitative research methods course. Similarly to my qualitative research methods course, I completed a semester-long research project on the topic of visible minority status and confidence in the police. Throughout the process I had the chance to develop quantitative methodological skills, alongside statistical software (SPSS) skills, and cultivated the ability to interpret statistical outputs in an understandable and applicable manner. This class was a challenge for me, as math does not come naturally – however, I am proud of the end product and I feel I learned a lot in this course.
Literature Review
I completed this paper on American Megachurches as a component of a course I took on religion in society. The research conducted for this paper was literature-based, and gave me the tools to be able to identity prominent themes and synthesize them in a coherent and relevant manner.
Organizational Brief
I compiled information on FED Urban Agriculture, an organization I had the chance to work with over the course of a semester as a component of a community engagement course. The paper, which takes a more informal tone than my typical research work, summarizes the role of FED in the community, outlines the organization’s structure, and weaves in a personal narrative detailing what the placement has looked like and meant to me.
Gender Studies Reflection Journal
This assignment was a component of a gender studies course in which we focused on learning to apply our often theoretical and conceptual knowledge in a practical manner. Throughout the course of the term, we were meant to reflect on the content of the course, along with readings and discussions had in class. The assignment allowed a chance to synthesize much of what was covered din class in a personally relevant way, as the format of journaling is fundamental to the way I process events, thoughts, and general life-learnings. As an (almost) weekly practice, the assignment provided a structured and consistent medium through which to reflect upon what we learned. Through this I learned the importance of reflection and reflexivity in the process of intentional growth.