Independent Study Reflections by Amanda Blanco '18
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Amanda Blanco, a Princeton University graduate, has conducted a senior thesis in Sociology that challenges some present stereotypes about liberal and conservative young Americans. Her research focused on understanding the factors influencing voting decisions among Princeton undergraduates, including race, gender, socioeconomic status, and family influence.
Conducting a senior thesis is no easy feat, and Blanco faced several challenges during her research. One of the main challenges was defining a clear and focused research question, grounded in sociological theory and prior research. Another was developing a robust interdisciplinary theoretical framework, ensuring a consistent connection throughout the thesis. Gathering and managing empirical data, such as surveys or interviews, while acknowledging methodological limitations, was also a significant challenge.
However, Blanco learned valuable lessons from these challenges. She discovered the importance of acknowledging the limitations of her study candidly to strengthen credibility. Incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives to enrich theoretical understanding was another crucial lesson. Blanco also learned the significance of maintaining a sociological perspective focused on interactions and social processes.
One of the practical solutions Blanco found to overcome a challenge was starting her thesis earlier to alleviate the pressure of finishing in the end. She also encountered difficulty getting in touch with students for interviews but found a solution by using student-written op-eds.
Blanco's adviser was readily available by email and worked with her at her own pace. Post-undergrad, Blanco continues to work on a project stemming from her independent research. She offers advice to rising seniors starting their independent research: do not wait to start writing and manage your time effectively.
Other students interviewed by Blanco, despite being first or second generation immigrants, expressed views against more open policies on immigration. This finding challenges some stereotypes about the political views of immigrant communities.
To learn more about others' experiences with senior theses, one can read the Winter 2017 Seasonal Series on the blog. Supporting resources on campus for independent research include departmental reps, writing center workshops, librarians, and more.
Independent research can lead to the discovery of a new passion for a project. Starting early on independent research can help manage unforeseen complications. Blanco's study is a testament to the value of independent research and the insights it can provide about our society.
This conversation was held between Amanda Blanco and Taylor Griffith, with Taylor being the Social Sciences Correspondent. Further conversations with Teri Tillman '16, Alex V. Barnard '09, and Chloe Angyal '09 regarding their experiences with senior theses can also be found.
- Amanda Blanco's senior thesis, conducted in Sociology at Princeton University, served as a platform for her personal growth and learning, providing insights about the factors influencing voting decisions among undergraduates and challenging some stereotypes about liberal and conservative young Americans.
- Conducting her senior thesis was an opportunity for Blanco to engage in undergraduate research, an independent work that offered valuable lessons in acknowledging study limitations, incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives, and maintaining a sociological perspective focused on interactions and social processes.
- As Blanco continues her education-and-self-development post-graduation, working on a project stemming from her independent research, her experience demonstrates the significance of independent work as a means of personal-growth and self-discovery, contributing to a deeper understanding of our society through learning and research.
