Michelle Marji is a Social Psychology PhD student in the Niedenthal Emotions Lab where she studies the intersections between identity, emotion, and social interaction. Learn more about her research and personal interests here.
Please describe your research in a way an elementary school student might understand.
I work with communities and local leaders to learn about the experiences of Black Americans in public parks. We look at whether, on average, stereotypes are related to feelings of belonging and experiences of relaxation or stress in parks. The goal of this work is to help people learn how to make parks fair, welcoming, and fun.
What inspired you to pursue that research?
Outdoor parks and other public outdoor spaces have never been equally accessible to people across racial groups in the United States. Historical and modern-day exclusion, segregation, and gentrification have perpetuated inequalities such that Black Americans are three times as likely as White Americans to live in nature-deprived spaces (CAP, 2017). During my time climbing in national and state parks in the Southwest, I learned about these issues firsthand and connected with groups like Brown Girls Climb, the AZ Women’s Climbing Coalition, Phoenix Rock Gym, and many incredible artists and activists. We created events to disrupt inequitable climbing experiences. Those moments stuck with me and inspired the research I do now.
What are your hobbies outside of school?
I enjoy dancing, rock climbing, baking, and spending time with friends and family.
What are your favorite places or things to do in Madison?
I love dancing with the Hitterz Collective at COPA Madison, grabbing a bite at a food truck on State Street, and watching the birds by the lake.
What’s a positive experience from graduate school that will stay with you?
The times I’ve spent with great friends I have made along the way.
Congratulations, you’ve earned your PhD! How will you celebrate and what would you love to do next?
I’ll celebrate with friends and family in New York City, and this summer I’ll begin a new role as a business consultant.