5 Research Reflection by Brittney Mellin

Faculty Mentor: Annie Isabel Fukushima (Ethnic Studies, University of Utah)

As a University of Utah undergraduate student majoring in Ethnic Studies, Gender Studies, and International Studies, with an Honors Integrated Minor in Human Rights and Resources, my academic work and interests have revolved around people, identities, and communities. I am passionate about de/constructing identity formation and the concept of forming spaces (physically and symbolically) within colonial institutions, and this research centers my academic interests and personal matters of identity, community, and caring practices in the form of creating and maintaining safe spaces. Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) I have gained and developed my professional research skills, as they relate to analysis and knowledge development, and my ability to bridge across invaluable connections as I set off into exploring opportunities for a career post-graduation. My research and this research opportunity have created a space that allows me to foster the development of my research project, content, and myself, as a researcher!