Kristin Mahnke: Undergraduate Research in DURP
Through the Distinguished Undergraduate Research Program (DURP), political science major Kristin Mahnke had the opportunity to collaborate with Professor Kathryn Pearson. Read the below Q&A to learn more about Kristin’s experience engaging in political science research, collaborating with faculty, and the DURP overall.
What research project did you work on?
I’m researching with Professor Kathryn Pearson to collect data about gendered partisanship in the House of Representatives for her upcoming book.
What was your role and responsibilities in the research project?
The first semester I did research with Professor Pearson, I collected qualitative data on leadership strategies on women in the House. I conducted a case study on Nancy Pelosi’s career and leadership, and compared her legislative behavior to that of Liz Cheney and Elise Stefanik. Currently, I am researching voting behavior of members of the 117th and 118th Congresses. Through this data, I’m examining the impact of various identity factors, such as gender and race, on members’ partisanship.
What skills did you learn in DURP?
My professor and I met bi-weekly, so I learned a lot about time management and working independently. Additionally, I learned how to navigate complex databases and organize data.
What was your favorite part of the program?
I loved learning more about Congress, going to the showcase at the end of the semester, and working with Professor Pearson. Throughout my time in the program, I found my passion for research and congressional politics. I didn’t anticipate liking research as much as I do, and now I see it as a potential career path, which has been super exciting. At the end of the semester, there is a DURP showcase where all of the undergraduates present their research. I loved hearing about what other students were working on, and I learned a lot about presenting research. I’m so grateful I got the chance to research with Professor Pearson—she’s the best!
What advice would you give to other students interested in DURP?
Apply! The political science faculty are all doing super interesting research and their interests might align with yours. This has been a great opportunity and a highlight of my undergraduate education. I highly recommend applying, even if you aren’t 100% sure you want to do research in the future.
