I would like to thank the countless people who helped make my thesis project possible. First and foremost my thesis advisors, Lisa Paravisini-Gebert and Meg Ronsheim. They provided me with constant feedback, advice, and invaluable resources. Additionally, I would like to say a special thanks to Lisa, who is also my major advisor. She has helped advocate for me over the years and especially during this semester. Not only did she also agree to be interviewed for my project, but she also helped me reach out to alumni whom she thought would be a good fit to be interviewed. 

To all of my interviewees, thank you for participating in my project. Without you this work would cease to exist. I greatly enjoyed being able to talk to each and every one of you. Some even went above and beyond and contacted other people they thought would be willing to participate in my project. I can’t express enough gratitude for all that you have done to help make this project a reality. 

Last but not least, I’d like to thank my friends and family for the support they showed throughout this project. Special thanks to Grace Amell, my editor (read all about her!).

Image Credits to Liberty Clarke, Class of 2023