Amanda Brown
Major: Psychology
The Project:
Perceptions of College Students Participating in Gender-Typed Activities
My project explores the perceptions people have about gender, masculinity and femininity. I was interested in seeing if perceptions of masculinity and femininity on campus match other research.
The Mentor:
M. L. Klotz, associate professor of psychology
There were countless benefits from working with Dr. Klotz. She gave me insight into psychological research and displayed a tremendous amount of support and interest in my education. I feel that I have had a unique experience because many of my friends at larger schools are not able to do research directly with their advisors.
The Experience:
I had to do a lot of background reading in gender studies in order to create my test materials. I took Independent Research last semester and started to collect data using a survey I created with student volunteers from lower-level psychology courses. I was able to test my hypothesis last semester but decided to survey more subjects in the spring. It was a long process, but very interesting and challenging.
The Reward:
I discovered how challenging and exciting research can be. I have a new level of respect for those who study psychology and gender studies. I was also surprised that I was selected to present at The Eastern Psychological Association and the National Conference on Undergraduate Research. As a freshman in college, I wondered if I could ever achieve this level of academic success.
What’s Next:
I plan to continue working in the helping professions. I would like to work at a domestic violence shelter or other nonprofit organization before deciding if I would like to further my education. I have many interests and I would like to explore the workforce before deciding on a graduate program.
Follow us on TWITTER
Find us on 
Watch us on YOUTUBE
Explore all