UROP Student Profile - Becky Matthews

   
 
 
Becky Matthews
Major: Anthropology, minoring in History, Middle Eastern Students and International Studies
Becky worked on a qualitative project documenting and creating narratives focusing on the lived experiences and statuses of women and girls in Genesee County.

How did you get involved in research?
I was interested in doing work that would be applicable to my future goals, and happened to get an e-mail about UROP. I went online, applied, and looked over some of the project openings. I found one that was interesting to me and contacted the professor.

How has participating in research impacted your education?
I think it has broadened my knowledge and given me skills that will help me get accepted into and succeed in a graduate school program.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your research experience?
Becoming more informed on new topics, while also learning and honing skills that I will use in my graduate school and professional career.

What are your future plans? How has participating in research helped you in preparing for those future plans?
I plan to get a PhD in Anthropology and do research/teach at the university level. This UROP project has helped me by exercising skills I will need for these endeavors, such as interviewing human subjects and analyzing data.

What advice would you give to students interested in being involved in research?
Pursuing a UROP project is a great way to get started in research. You learn a lot, it prepares you for doing research in the future, and helps build your CV/resume.