University Honors Summer Scholars 2012
Summer 2012 marks the first year the University Honors Summer Scholars Program is established at Northern Illinois University. The Summer Scholars’ profiles listed below not only introduces our distinguished Summer Scholars, but also allows us to showcase the impressive work and passion they have for their research.
Make sure to follow the University Summer Scholars’ research on the University Honors Summer Scholar blog!
Wayne Duerkes
Title of Project: The Development of the Market in the Lower Fox River Valley, 1833-1852
Faculty Mentor: Dr. James Schmidt
Abstract: This University Honors Capstone research project will examine the creation and development of the market in southern DeKalb and northern LaSalle County region from 1833 to 1852. It will also utilize the results of the research to describe how this specific region places within the broader historiographical debate on community and capitalistic intentions of emigrants.
Program of Study: History
Year of Graduation: Spring 2013
Future Plans: After my undergraduate studies, I plan to attend graduate school to earn my Ph.D. in History. From there, I hope to become a university professor. My scholarly focus will be the American Civil War.
Hometown: Somonauk, IL
Fun Fact: I have a personal collection of over 4,000 history books of which 75% are on the Civil War and I have been to every state and national Civil War park and battlefield. (Did I mention I love history?!)
Anastasia Kocher
Title of Project: Women’s Rights: Changes in Women’s Status in Central Asia Following the Independence of 1991.
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kikue Hamayotsu
Abstract: My summer research project examines the status of women’s rights in five Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kirgizstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. I seek to understand the changes that have taken place since the political independence of the Central Asian region in the early 1990’s, including national leaders’ encouragement of traditional roles for women and the resulting gender gaps in almost all spheres of life. I also wish to evaluate the institutional, social, and cultural factors that have led to the regression of women’s rights. The University Honors Summer Scholar Award provides me with the resources and time to perform my research.
Program of Study: Political Science (International Politics)
Year of Graduation: Spring 2013
Future Plans: After completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to attend graduate school to earn a M.A. in International Relations. My goal is to work for the U.S. Federal Government.
Hometown: Sycamore, IL
Fun Fact: My personal hero is Joan of Arc.