Student Reflections on Their Senior Theses

I’d have to say that this fall has been one of the most intellectually stimulating.  …I think the freedom to design my own schedule and dictate my own learning style has allowed me to learn a great deal over the past semester about my thesis topic (international accounting standards), and about myself.
~ Cara Loose (Accounting)

I have gained a lot of laboratory experience since the beginning of this project, and I have been exposed to many different types of experimental techniques, chemicals, glassware, and instruments that I do not get a chance to use during class.  I have also gained experience in the use of some of the more powerful (and in some cases, extremely expensive) instruments, such as the Infrared Spectrometer and the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer. 
~ William Allen (Chemistry)

It has been fascinating...it has all been so surprising…personally rewarding for me…this research is very personal for me.
~ Rebecca Hewitt (Religious Studies)

Before beginning the thesis process, I wasn’t convinced my research would take me anywhere.  Now, having begun and having seen how expansive this topic could be, I see it as an option that I could take with me past Elon.  Therefore, my desire to pursue graduate school has been solidified through the process.  Furthermore, my confidence in my writing and research abilities has increased greatly.  Also, I have learned how to think more analytically and have begun to think of myself as a real scholar, as opposed to just a student.
~ Amie Ritchie (International Studies)

Overall, I have had a very valuable experience in doing research on this scale. I will also find this experience beneficial when I am in my final year of engineering school.  Most students do large-scale projects such as this one in order to graduate.  The experience I have gained from knowing how to take data, complete literature reviews, and write scientific papers will be a definite advantage…  This research will prove to be beneficial to my career as well.
~ Maggie Williams (Engineering)

I am most proud of what I have learned about Central American migrants working in the United States. I witnessed first hand their lives in the United States, how they deal with certain struggles and setbacks, and how hard they work to make a living here.  I consider this quite a feat in itself because very few Americans have actually talked with these people and personally experienced their living and working environments.  I am proud that I have broken the language and cultural barrier myself and am now better educated….
~ Abbey Lepley (Economics)