Reflecting on College Research: A Chat with Teri Tillman from the Class of 2016
Teri Tillman, a graduate of Princeton University from 2016, embarked on an academic journey that would shape her future, both personally and professionally. Tillman graduated with a degree in Sociology and a certificate in American Studies, and her senior thesis, an independent project, was a testament to the significant long-term impacts and benefits of such research.
Academically, Tillman's thesis demanded intellectual depth, rigor, and analytical skills. The culmination of her undergraduate studies, it provided her with graduate-level research experience that set her apart. Princeton's emphasis on senior theses also offered her the opportunity to work closely with faculty on cutting-edge research, fostering early exposure to high-level scholarship.
Professionally, Tillman's thesis signalled strong research competencies and perseverance, qualities highly valued by employers and graduate programs. Her research, which often resulted in prestigious scholarships like the Gates Cambridge or Knight-Hennessy, demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and leadership, aiding in competitive postgraduate applications. Moreover, the research experience encouraged connections to Princeton’s alumni networks and programmes like Project 55, which combine scholarship with real-world impact and professional mentorship.
On a personal level, the rigorous independent research process enhanced Tillman's self-discipline, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to societal contribution. Her senior thesis work nurtured a desire to make a difference, as she applied scholarly rigor to issues that matter, such as environmental policy or socioeconomic research. It also honed her communication skills through writing and presenting complex ideas clearly, a skill crucial for lifelong learning and engagement.
Tillman's thesis, an interdisciplinary investigation of the purposes and functionality of cross-cultural racial parody, focused on comparing Japanese American performances in blackface with African American performances in yellowface. She utilised gender theory, performance theory, and critical race theory to analyse plays, movies, music videos, and television performances. Some of the performances she analysed were examples of cultural appropriation and ridicule, while others revealed the possibility for the reconceptualization and reterritorialization of minstrel traditions.
After her graduation, Tillman's academic journey continued. She is currently in her second year at Cornell Law School, where she serves as the academic chair for the Black Law Students Association and the co-president for the Sports & Entertainment Law Society. Additionally, she is a student associate in Cornell's Labor Law Clinic. Tillman's thesis at Princeton undoubtedly provided her with the tools necessary for future academic work, positioning her for success in academia, industry, and civic life.
References:
[1] Princeton University. (2021). Senior Thesis. [online] Available at: https://www.princeton.edu/main/get/doc/media/princeton-university/academics/undergraduate/senior-thesis-and-research/senior-thesis-and-research-program/ [Accessed 15 May 2023].
[2] Princeton University. (2021). Senior Thesis and Research Program. [online] Available at: https://www.princeton.edu/main/get/doc/media/princeton-university/academics/undergraduate/senior-thesis-and-research/ [Accessed 15 May 2023].
[3] Princeton University. (2021). Gates Cambridge Scholarships. [online] Available at: https://www.princeton.edu/main/get/doc/media/princeton-university/academics/offices-programs/international-programs/gates-cambridge-scholarships/ [Accessed 15 May 2023].
[5] Princeton University. (2021). Project 55. [online] Available at: https://www.princeton.edu/main/get/doc/media/princeton-university/academics/undergraduate/senior-thesis-and-research/project-55/ [Accessed 15 May 2023].
- Teri Tillman's senior thesis, an independent project, served as a significant milestone in her undergraduate education and self-development during her time at Princeton University, providing her with valuable experience in undergraduate research and fostering her personal growth.
- The rigorous, self-directed nature of her senior thesis allowed Tillman to cultivate intellectual curiosity, perseverance, and Communication skills, skills essential for her ongoing education-and-self-development and team leadership roles in the Black Law Students Association and Sports & Entertainment Law Society at Cornell Law School.
- The research and analytical skills honed through her senior thesis and the collaboration with faculty on cutting-edge research, such as Project 55's combination of scholarship with real-world impact, provided Tillman with a competitive edge for prestigious awards like the Gates Cambridge Scholarships, demonstrating her commitment to learning and potential for future academic advancement.
