My research experience has taught me so much! I have built on, and developed several skills in qualitative research. A bulk of my research project involves analyzing data using a thematic approach, and my mentors have taught me so many tips on how to do this more efficiently. I refreshed myself on how to search databases while completing my literature review, which I see myself utilizing these skills in the near future as I pursue writing an honors thesis. Through my research, I’ve also expanded much of my knowledge on school-based health education. Youth’s perceptions of health education in schools is so insightful, and shines a light on issues with the American education system as well as our ideas of health, and adolescence. A challenge for me however, has been writing my manuscript that I hope to publish after I conclude my research. It has been a very long time since I’ve written a scientific research paper, so there has been a lot of trial and error in that area. My research mentors have been incredibly helpful to me though, and I’m excited to see the finished product soon.
My social identity has definitely impacted how I understand my research, just as it influences the responses collected from the research participants. Age plays a big part in the research as it is a collection of young adult’s thoughts and feelings on their experiences with school-based health education. I am within the age group of interest in this research, and can relate to the feelings of the participants when they talk about how their health education has helped, and failed them. Gender identity and sexual orientation also influence youth’s responses to the project’s 5 question survey, when they discuss how those identities have privileged or disadvantaged them in their learning. Those perspectives are important to consider as we work to better health education to make it more inclusive and valuable to everyone.
Outside of my research, I’ve had a lot of fun during my first summer in Ann Arbor. My roommate and I have found fun activities all over Ann Arbor, and have more plans this weekend to go to the Uncle Sam Jam Carnival! I also picked up knitting this summer, and have ventured outside to enjoy this new pastime of mine in the warm weather.
Ashley