Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Other Major: Security and Risk Analysis
Minor: Chinese Language
Hometown: Yardley, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked and continue to work with a PhD Candidate, Michael Soules, on his dissertation. I am primarily tasked with researching the methods used by terrorist organizations to recruit civilians and submitting written memos on each group. He presented an opportunity for me to co-author a paper for publication on the role of child soldiers and youth wings in terrorist organizations and how the use of children relates back to overall recruitment methods.

This experience has allowed me to network with and get to know other faculty members, making connections with those who would be able to help me as I continue to pursue my studies

How did this experience impact you academically?

It has been an interesting experience to add on, and has challenged me academically. It pushes me to improve my critical thinking and analytical skills, while forcing me to adapt my time management to include this responsibility. It has made me a better student and has increased my ability to handle many responsibilities at once.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The possibility of having a publication would improve my credibility to future employers, and being a research assistant overall has provided me with valuable skills for my intended field. Particularly as I consider law school or a PhD program, this experience has provided me with the opportunity to dip my toes into higher-level academia and improve on skills I would utilize more frequently when pursuing higher education.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I found the opportunity through a faculty member. I reached out to her asking if she knew of any opportunities, and she put me in contact with Mr. Soules. This experience has allowed me to network with and get to know other faculty members, making connections with those who would be able to help me as I continue to pursue my studies.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program did not directly affect this experience. However, I know that if I reached out to any Paterno Fellows Program faculty for aid, I would be given as much support as I need to continue this experience and make it as beneficial as possible to my academic experience.