The Institute for Immigration Research (IIR) recently hosted “Migration Research in Action,” that brought together George Mason students and staff engaged in diverse research areas, including psychology, sociology, political science, and biology. The event welcomed students at all academic levels, from those pursuing bachelor’s to doctoral degrees. It provided an opportunity for participants to learn about migration research, connect with fellow student researchers, and explore research resources available at George Mason University.
Facilitated by Dr. Kellie Wilkerson, Research Associate at the IIR, the event featured a panel of three George Mason student researchers. Sociology PhD student Umida Hashimova and IIR Graduate Research Assistant shared her recent fieldwork conducting subject-matter and migrant interviews in Uzbekistan. Political Science PhD candidate Sanggyu Suh discussed his research at the intersection of human migration, climate change, and international security, examining the impact of political and environmental constraints on migrants in transit. Economics PhD student Molly Rovinski discussed her research on the consequences of government restrictions on immigration, drawing on Austrian and public choice economics to examine the effects of government intervention at home and abroad.
Beyond their research topics, the panelists reflected on their individual research journeys, including what inspired them to pursue their areas of study, the challenges they have encountered, and how they navigate these obstacles.
Following the student panel, Wendy Mann, George Mason University Libraries Director of Data and Digital Scholarship Services (DDSS), shared information about the ways the DDSS Lab supports students who are working with digital data and navigating data resources for their research.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, where students asked questions about getting involved in migration research, opportunities for student researchers, and methods for collecting and working with data.
“Migration Research in Action” provided a valuable space for student researchers to connect, share their experiences, and learn from one another. The event highlighted the diverse migration-related research taking place across campus while introducing students to research opportunities, mentorship, and resources available to support their work.