My name is Kia Ehrke, and I am a rising senior at the University of Michigan, majoring in history and dual minoring in writing and religion. As a history major, I was drawn to this program because I wanted to combine my historical research with certain elements of gender theory to explore my interests from a different angle. This summer, I will be continuing my research on Queen Elizabeth I of England. I have explored her in multiple historical inquiries in the past, but I hope to bring a new perspective to my work through WAGSFP. There is so much to learn about the Tudor Dynasty (of which she belongs), and I am hoping to get a better understanding of her as a historical figure through my research. In addition to expanding my research on her, I think that this summer program will aid me in bettering my research skills, which will help me in future academic endeavors. While I have completed historical research papers before, this is my first time working in a specific program with a mentor on my research. I am looking forward to this new experience! In my research pursuits, I think I may encounter some challenges relating to my initial argument. I foresee changing my current thesis to better encapsulate the new information I learn and any new theories I develop. In summary, I hope to broaden my understanding of research practices and my topic over the course of this summer!
Me, hiking in Norway!