In a research panel for Laidlaw, the Barnard College cohort had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Fawziah Qadir, a Professor of Education at Barnard. She explained the importance of ethics and equity in working with human subjects. One aspect of this is honoring the true experiences of the research participants in how their experiences are portrayed in writing. Dr. Qadir referred to this type of analysis as storytelling. In my research process, I am conducting focus groups to discuss the effects of certain social media trends on young women. As I analyze the data from these conversations, I am focusing on storytelling. This means I will communicate the qualitative data I have gathered to accurately portray the experiences of these women. Some aspects of this research are deeply personal, discussing marriage and motherhood, and even financial abuse. As my participants have shared their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, I am ensuring their information will be analyzed accurately and with care.

I am grateful to Dr. Qadir and the Barnard Laidlaw team for emphasizing the importance of equity in research. As Laidlaw scholars, we are given incredible opportunities to make change in our communities. Focusing on honoring those communities throughout the research process is as important as the research itself.