Project Title: How and Why Counterculture Movements Become Mainstream
Project Description: My project examines different countercultural movements and "dangerous" or "subversive" ideas throughout history and asks, why and how these gain entry into our cultural consciousness? Can a counterculture movement sustain itself on the sidelines of society and still remain true to its ideologies? I plan on answering this question through coursework in English, Government, Film, Anthropology, and other departments. Something I am excited to explore more is how narrative, and works of literature in particular, can bolster or reduce support for a counterculture.
Most Important Accomplishment: I write for The Cornell Daily Sun, and I recently got my first-ever reader letter from a complete stranger. I love seeing older folks support student writers and student journalism.
Reflections on College Scholars Program: The individuals in this program are some of the smartest, most inquisitive people I've ever met. I feel lucky to surround myself with them; they push me to go further in my research, and give me grace when I feel out of my depth. I'm grateful for the College Scholar program partially for the flexibility it allows me in pursuing my many passions, but also for its community of equally driven and enthusiastic students.