Thoughts on Theses

Ariana Rodriguez ’24 is an economics and education studies major writing a thesis about nutrition programs in El Salvador public schools. In this Thoughts of Theses, Rodriguez walks us through her data collection, which took her all the way back home.

Caelen McQuilkin ’24E is majoring in American Studies and English. In her thesis, she takes a deep dive into her home town of Lee Vining, California. Through over forty interviews with residents of the area, Caelen explores the process of documenting and sharing stories.

Jacqueline Kim ’23 is an English major who wrote a novella titled “A Swift Boat, A Wide Sea” for her creative-writing thesis. Her thesis advisor is Assistant Professor of English Thirii M. Myint.

Will DeGroot ’23 is a mathematics and computer science double major. His thesis works toward answering a “big open question” within the field of abstract algebra called the Galois embedding problem. In collaboration with the Amherst STEM Network.

Susannah Auderset ’23 is an architectural studies major writing a thesis on affordable housing in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Her thesis advisor is Chair of Architectural Studies Professor Gabriel A. Arboleda.

Patrick Spoor ’23 is a music major who recently completed their vocal performance thesis, “Einheitswanderschaft.” They play the part of a wandering soul who, through a collection of songs, seeks the greater purpose of “Einheit” — unity or oneness.