Palatable Politics
Ohio Wesleyan Students Research 'The Politics of Food Allergy'
Name: Caroline O'Malley '28
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
High School: Teays Valley High School
Majors: Politics & Government and History
OWU Connection Experience: Participating in Ohio Wesleyan's 10-week Summer Scholarship and Research Program (SSRP)
O'Malley and research partner Hailey Harris '28 of Wadsworth, Ohio, worked under the mentorship of Franchesca Nestor, Ph.D., associate professor of Politics & Government, to explore "The Politics of Food Allergy."
"We interpreted the results of the previous SSRP group's survey and developed new methods and designs for our next project survey. Now, as we consider the impact of food allergies on voters' opinions, we can interpret the "Why" behind their decision-making."
O'Malley and Harris explained in their project abstract that they "conducted a content analysis of our existing open-ended public opinion survey data to learn how the public feels about people with food allergy and chronic illness serving in elected office. We also created a new conjoint design survey that asks respondents to choose between pretend candidates with different chronic health considerations."
Professor Nestor adds, "The research fits into the larger picture of my food policy class and ongoing interest in food allergy, chronic illness, and representation in legislative and executive branch government institutions."
Why This Opportunity?
"SSRP was an amazing opportunity to experience political science research and develop a stronger understanding of my career goals post-graduation," O'Malley says.
My Favorite Moment
"I just loved every chance we got to go off topic and chat about random things! Ours was a very talkative group and so much of our time was spent laughing over nothing."
Working with political science research has given me incredible insight going into my career.
Lessons Learned
"Working with political science research has given me incredible insight going into my career. While I no longer believe research is the best field for me, I now have a stronger understanding of its inner workings and impact on the political sphere."
My Campus Involvements
"I am a member of the Kitchen SLU on campus." (Ohio Wesleyan's SLUs, or small living units, are residences that house up to a dozen students who are interested in its theme, such as food, the environment, or identity.)
Why I Chose Ohio Wesleyan?
"Opportunities like SSRP and study abroad, along with the alumni network, were important factors in my decision to attend OWU!"
My Plans After Graduation
"After graduation, I plan to work in public policy and legislation. As a field with limited positions and extensive application processes, I am counting on my courses and career catalyst to help me stand out among the applicants!" (Part of the Career Connection staff, OWU's career catalysts are experts in the subjects for which they help students prepare for the opportunities they seek.)