I PRESENTED MY GRADUATE RESEARCH AT A CONFERENCE ✨

What an incredible milestone! Presenting my graduate research at the Midwest Sociological Society (MSS) conference was truly a standout moment in my academic journey. This wasn't just another presentation; it was a deeply personal and professional experience that allowed me to share years of dedicated work. From the moment I arrived and stood proudly in front of the Midwest Sociological Society backdrop, holding their circular logo sign, the energy was palpable. It was inspiring to be surrounded by fellow scholars and researchers, all passionate about their respective fields. My presentation, titled 'WHY BLACK FEMINISM?', delved into a topic very close to my heart: the impact of social media algorithms on Black artists through a Black feminist lens. This research explores what I call algorithmic bias and oppression, examining how these digital systems can disproportionately affect marginalized creatives. For those unfamiliar, the Midwest Sociological Society is a respected organization that fosters sociological research and teaching. Attending and presenting here meant engaging with a diverse group of thinkers, receiving valuable feedback, and contributing to a larger discourse. Having come from a STEM research background for my first three years, transitioning to humanities research for this project felt like a natural evolution, allowing me to blend analytical rigor with critical social theory. One of the most rewarding parts was the opportunity to discuss my findings and engage with insightful questions from the audience. It’s one thing to pore over data and theories, but another entirely to articulate it clearly and logically to others, sparking new ideas and perspectives. The support from my advisor, Dr. Abby Templer-Rodrigues, also highlighted in some of the conference materials featuring my work, was invaluable throughout this process. Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping my understanding and approach to this complex topic. Receiving two scholarships to attend the conference was such a blessing. It eased the financial burden and allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience, focusing on networking and learning from others. This journey has solidified my passion for this field, and I'm more excited than ever to continue my project, refine my arguments, and prepare for even more conferences in the future. If you're a student considering presenting your work, I highly encourage it – the growth and connections you make are truly priceless!