Sociology Research
Sociology Research
May 2023 - May 2024
Connectivity & Well-Being: An Ethnographic Exploration of Grand Rapids
Arabella Cummings
The purpose of this research is to understand the state of well-being among a more
diverse range of individuals living in the city of Grand Rapids. This research explores
how structural forces, in particular, public spaces and transportation (access and
barriers) contribute to overall well-being and connectivity. This study also seeks
to understand the implications of the pandemic on mental health and overall well-being.
A final objective is continuing to explore the complex factors that contribute to
poor mental health in Grand Rapids, in particular two key interrelated factors: sense
of belonging and authenticity, and social pressures and norms. This research will
be conducted primarily through ethnographic methods, uniquely on bicycles. We will
traverse the city on bicycle to explore the infrastructure and connectivity of the
city and, through qualitative research methods, seek to answer our core research questions
about lived experiences in Grand Rapids, about the city and neighborhoods of Grand
Rapids, and about overall well-being.
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jen Lendrum, Sociology
Funded by: Aquinas College Summer Scholars Program
May 2022 - May 2023
Factors Shaping Trends of Poor(er) Mental Health: An Exploratory Mixed-Methods Study
of Grand Rapids
Adeline (Ada) Shaw
Our summer research explores the complex factors that contribute to poor mental health in West Michigan and seeks to understand the implications of the pandemic on mental health and overall well-being. Further, this research seeks to examine the role of the following structural forces on the well-being of residents in Grand Rapids: the local labor market and availability of “good” jobs; the structure of the neighborhood, in particular “other” spaces such as porches and parks; the role of local churches as a place of worship and support; and the role of community and social networks. Our mixed-methods study relies primarily on ethnographic methods.
May 2017 - May 2018
Immigrants and Active Engagement in Community Organizing
Mary Wernet
My research explores the motivations, barriers, and goals immigrants experience when fighting for social change within their communities in the United States.
Faculty Advisor: Susan Haworth-Hoeppner
Funded by: Student Senate Research Fund
Educational Support Staff’s Perspective on Undocumented Immigrants’ Experiences with
the Educational System
Stephanie Mellstead
This study reveals the experiences of undocumented immigrant families and their children in relation to the public school system in elementary school, uncovering exterior barriers, language barriers, lack of parental involvement with schools due to fear of deportation or being miss-understood, and impacts on the student related to the undocumented parental status. Educational support staff were interviewed in relation to undocumented immigrant families within a Public school district in the Midwest.
Faculty Advisor: Susan Haworth-Hoeppner
Funded by: Student Senate Research Fund
A Sociological Analysis of the Many Facets of Immigration Policy in the Midwest
Kelsey Feutz & Katharine Reed
This was qualitative research done regarding the topic of immigration policy, and more specifically regarding DACA recipients. We interviewed 20 participants and this data was compiled to create a theory. Through our research, we had found the effects of the immigration process, how the person's status affected the individual, how the status impacted their identity, and the implications of recent policy changes.
Faculty Advisor: Susan Haworth-Hoepnner