McKinley Collard ’26, majors in economics and minors in communication studies and statistical science. She was awarded with a summer student fellowship in which she researched quality of life in the United States in comparison with other wealthy countries across the globe with the guidance of economics professors Richard McIntyre and Arthur Mead.
What was your fellowship topic?
For my summer fellowship, I researched international comparisons of quality of life between the United States and several other wealthy democracies across the globe. To do so, I gathered data on a range of topics such as health, the environment, crime, political atmosphere, the economy, and mobility.
What was the most interesting discovery from your fellowship?
Through my research, I have been able to branch out from my own societal perspective within the United States. By exploring comparative data and outcomes, I have gotten a glimpse into how other countries approach issues within their governments and communities.
What inspired you to apply?
During December of my sophomore year, I was reaching the end of several classes on economic and labor history within the United States, and had been fascinated by learning about the cause-and-effect relationships between world events and economic trends. So, when one of my professors approached me with the idea to explore quality of life outcomes and influences as a summer fellowship, I jumped at the opportunity to apply.
What was your experience working with your assigned mentor/faculty member?
During this project, I got to work alongside Professors Richard McIntyre and Arthur Mead from the economics department. With their personalized guidance and feedback, I discovered compelling insights within the data I collected and shaped this project into something I’m truly proud of.
What would you say to students considering a fellowship?
To any of the students considering pursuing a fellowship, do it! My summer fellowship gave me the flexibility and freedom to explore the questions that matter to me and to pursue research and learning that isn’t normally possible within course curriculums.
How will this fellowship inform the rest of your time at URI?
This fellowship has also made me more confident in my ability to ask questions and find answers to them, especially when those answers take a good bit of digging. This fellowship has been a highlight of my time at URI so far, and has sparked interest in topics that will guide my career after graduation.
The College of Arts and Sciences Fellows Program offers undergraduates in an A&S College major paid summer fellowships to participate in research, scholarly, or creative projects under the supervision of a faculty mentor.Interested in becoming a student fellow?