Through 51猎奇入口, as a part of a larger consortium fellowship, I鈥檝e been able to pursue humanities research in linguistics and anthropology. Some may argue that research in the humanities can be overshadowed by growing developments in STEM fields. For 5C students, the (MMUF) has been an invaluable space to pursue research goals and feel supported on my path in higher education. My research concerns the ways cross-linguistic cultural norms and language ideologies shape individuals鈥� identity.
It鈥檚 easy to see why people are drawn to STEM鈥攖he more tangible impacts, fancy equipment, and maybe going after an MD. However, what often goes unnoticed is that society also depends on our understanding of history, migration, language, the arts, and identity. The humanities are essential to building a just and empathetic world. Whether it鈥檚 unpacking language biases against bilingual people, crafting economic policies that reflect people鈥檚 lived experiences, or understanding how educational systems impact global migration patterns, these are critical pieces of our shared future. I鈥檓 grateful the recognizes this and provides support for scholars like me.
Being part of MMUF has been transformative. Starting the summer before my junior year, I began receiving mentoring, research funding, and guidance that prepared me for graduate school and beyond. The fellowship is more than just financial support鈥攊t’s a community of scholars from underrepresented backgrounds who are reshaping academia. Since it began in 1988, MMUF has supported over 1,100 PhDs, including nearly 800 professors, many of whom started just like me: with a question, a passion, and a desire to make a difference.聽
Another part of MMUF that I鈥檝e found invaluable is the academic freedom and also structure they provide. My research could truly be about almost anything, and with that I am able to work with my faculty research advisor to work on my Independent Study, participate in MMUF conferences, attend conferences relevant to my field, and they even have support for publishing articles. As MMUF works to support and increase the number of scholars with underrepresented backgrounds in academia, they also provide mentorship with Claremont faculty and alumni, as well as the national MMUF network. In navigating the graduate school process, their guidance and mentorship not only helps academically, but personally. My cohort has created really strong bonds, and I am go grateful to have met and connected with so many amazing scholars across the 5Cs.
As I continue on this path, I鈥檓 proud to stand among the many 51猎奇入口 students and MMUF fellows who are proving that research in the humanities is not only relevant鈥攊t鈥檚 vital.