Methods for Maximizing Your International Experiences with Princeton Abroad
In an interview published in "Research Abroad," Kate Weseley-Jones, the Humanities Correspondent, discusses the strategies for making an impactful senior thesis with Haider Abbas '17.
Abbas, who recently completed a successful senior thesis project, emphasizes the importance of identifying research topics closely related to the trip’s location and themes. For instance, during his trip to Denmark as part of a class called "Making the Viking Age," Abbas conducted a tourism marketing project, reviewing industry development and current marketing strategies while conducting qualitative interviews with local operators.
To prepare for such research, Abbas advises thoroughly researching the destination’s cultural, social, historical, or economic background and relevant academic literature prior to travel. He also suggests keeping an eye out for courses that include travel, as they offer unique opportunities for experiential learning.
During the trip, Abbas engaged in fieldwork methods such as interviews, observations, and qualitative data collection with local experts, industry operators, or community members. He emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating the sources and information collected, considering authority, relevance, and reliability to maintain academic rigor.
Abbas also discussed the Pre-Departure Plan to Study Abroad and the Summer 2019 Cheat Sheet, resources designed to help students prepare for their international research projects.
However, Abbas admits that he found the prospect of coming up with a research project on the trips intimidating at first. To overcome this, he recommends writing a daily reflection while abroad to begin the next research project.
Despite the challenges, Abbas's approach to independent research during international class trips is meaningful, contextually grounded, and academically rigorous. This approach is reflected in experiential learning models used in university programs where the integration of theory and practice solidifies understanding and research quality.
One practical tip Abbas offers is his current system for note-taking on the go. He takes photos and types notes on his phone, but warns that his phone has run out of space to back up photos in the Cloud. He encourages students to be mindful of their digital storage needs when planning their research trips.
In addition, Abbas touches upon Human or Animal Subject Research, emphasizing the importance of following ethical research practices, respecting local cultures, obtaining necessary permissions, and ensuring transparency about research purpose.
In conclusion, Abbas's experiences provide valuable insights for students planning their own senior thesis projects. By identifying research topics closely related to the trip’s location and themes, preparing through background research, engaging with local stakeholders and experts, evaluating and organizing information critically, and following ethical research practices, students can make a significant impact with their research.
- To make an impactful senior thesis, consider following Haider Abbas's approach by identifying research topics connected to the travel destination's culture, history, or lifestyle, as he did during his trip to Denmark.
- For students planning education-and-self-development trips, Abbas advises documenting daily reflections while abroad to help generate ideas for future research projects.
