Aisha Mohammed

Student Spotlight: October 2021

What is your major?

Psychology and Human Biology, Pre-med.

Describe your research/creative work in just two sentences that we can all understand.

My research focuses on the comparison between real world Senegal and its depiction in Mariama Bâ’s Une si longue lettre in the context of patriarchy and girls' education. I am analyzing several female characters in Bâ’s novel to accurately portray Bâ’s depiction of Senegal and to use as a comparison to similar issues in Senegal.

What does your research look like on a day-to-day basis? What do you spend most of your time doing?

My research is broken into 3 main parts: a lot of reading, French language practice and discussing with my mentor. I read Bâ’s novel as well as peer reviewed articles focused on analyzing different themes in the book. I am presenting my work in the French language, so I practice French grammar and vocabulary skills. I frequently meet with my mentor to discuss my research plan and for critique on my French writing skills. I usually allocate 2 hours for each part, but I only do one part a day, so the amount of time for each part is often equal.

Who mentors your project?

Dr. Gillian Weatherley

Q: What surprised you about doing a larger research or creative project?

A: The amount of independence I have in leading my research. I make detailed schedules on when tasks are due and forge my unique path in producing my project.

Q: What did you find most challenging about getting involved in or doing your project? What advice would you offer to students facing similar challenges?

A: At first, I was worried about the amount of reading I would have to do but since I focused my research on subjects that I am passionate about, the reading did not seem like a chore but more of an activity I would do in my leisure time. My advice for anyone facing a similar challenge would be to try your best to tailor your research to topics you are passionate about. If you feel like your research is boring, take time to highlight aspects that you can change to suit your passion.

Q: What do you like most about your project?

A: The overlap of several studies. I interact with the French language, literature analysis, African studies, Sociology, and Women & Gender studies.

Q: How do you spend your time when you’re not working on your project?

A: I spend my free time reading novels and volunteering at the Lawrence Memorial Hospital.