Meet Lauren Wyatt, a 2022-2023 Graduate Dean's Award recipient. Lauren is a doctoral student majoring in Sociology.
Please give a short overview of your research.
During my time at Kent State as an undergrad, I completed a Senior Honors Thesis under the direction of Dr. Clarissa Thompson in the Department of Psychological Sciences. My thesis was based on research I conducted related to fraction cognition. I specifically examined the effectiveness of different types of fraction instructions on parents' accuracy when solving fraction related math problems. The findings of this research are being used to inform decisions on fraction instructions that will appear in a children's fraction picture books.
What made you choose to pursue your graduate degree here at Kent State?
I had many incredible professors in the Sociology department as an undergrad that I wanted to continue learning from and being mentored by.
What do you enjoy most about attending Kent State for graduate school?
I absolutely love the supportive, collaborative environment among the professors and students.
What are your future goals?
I plan to receive my Ph.D. in Sociology and then go on to continue conducting research in the area of social psychology.
What does this award mean to you and how will it aid you?
Receiving the Dean's Award has been such an honor! I feel so appreciated as a researcher and as a student. I also feel like I have the support of the university behind me as I take this next step in my academic journey. I hope that I will be able to use the knowledge and skills I acquire to benefit my colleagues and society at large during my career. In addition, this award will aid in removing some of my financial burdens, which will allow me to focus more of my energy on my program and on living a fulfilling life.