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Student Spotlight: Stephanie Cantu
Finding a Research AdvisorStephanie is interested in bridging the gap between psychology and theatre. When she took Dr. Wolf’s class on social contexts of musical theatre, she knew she wanted to be involved in a more intensive research project so that she could fully investigate the intimate conversations of everyday life that are presented in musical theatre. She approached Dr. Wolf and asked her to be her advisor for her Junior Fellows and Plan II project. Career ExplorationAfter deciding to apply to medical school, Louis was encouraged to try research to see if he enjoyed it. He knew there was a clinical side to medical school, but he wanted to explore the research side to get a broader understanding of careers and options in medicine. Finding a PositionLouis knew he was interested in getting involved in research, but he didn’t know who to contact. He looked at the Eureka website and talked with Lynda Gonzales, an advisor with the Bridging Disciplines Programs (BDPs) and Office of Undergraduate Research. Lynda suggested Louis contact Dr. Penticuff because of their shared interest in medical ethics. Louis has found his undergraduate research experience to be extremely valuable, and he has enjoyed the work he has been able to do with faculty at UT. Research and Current ProjectsStephanie’s current research project focuses on the societal contexts of the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Company. Her work is extremely innovative and creative. She is one of the first scholars to conduct primary research on the larger societal context of this musical. She examines the similarities and differences between the 1970 version and the 2006 revival of Company. See below for some of her research findings: Below are the two main publicity logos for “Company.” The first is from the original 1970 version, and illustrates the modernity of the musical (very block letters, fun colors, etc). “Company” was very ahead of its time when it was first produced, and this is highlighted in its original logo. The second is from the 2006 revival. What’s interesting about the second logo is that each letter is in a separate box, yet put together forms an entire word. This demonstrates the isolation of the individuals in the musical and also their need for each other to be complete. This idea is what seems to be highlighted in the revival – the paradox of man’s isolation and need for social relationships.   The two production photos below both illustrate the same point in the musical, but have very different representations. The costumes for both are very indicative of popular fashion of the times. This comparison illustrates the musical’s ability to speak to audiences of different time periods and the legacy of “Company.”   Stephanie received travel funding to view and research the revival of Company in New York City. She also received a grant to conduct archival research at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. She has explored and researched archival box office receipts, musical lyrics and libretti to explore the social context of the musical. Benefits of Undergraduate ResearchStephanie has enjoyed working on her research project in the Department of Theatre and Dance. Her relationship with Dr. Wolf has allowed her to learn more about the practices of research in creative activities. She has definitely seen the benefits of working closely a with faculty member on a research project. In addition to learning about the larger social context and impact of musical theatre, she has learned research skills, library skills, and bibliographical skills. She has learned how to navigate through a research project and choose her own guidelines and methods for research. This is one of two of Stephanie’s research projects she is working on during her senior year. When asked “Why are you writing two?” Her response was “Well this is my fun one!” Advice for Undergraduates Considering ResearchStephanie’s advice to other undergraduates is to get out there and look for research advisors: “Don’t be afraid to talk to professors. If you are interested in what they are doing, just email them and try to meet with them.” Stephanie also suggests looking on the Eureka website for professors who are working on projects in your area of interest. Stephanie chose to work the Dr. Wolf because she saw some qualities in Dr. Wolf’s teaching style that she knew she would like to learn more about. Stephanie suggests that you seek out a professor that you would enjoy working with. Most of all, Stephanie suggests that undergrads should “take the initiative” and search for projects that interest them most. Links |
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last updated; Mar 25 2008 Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility Information |
Stephanie Cantu is a senior in the Business Honors Program, a Psychology major, and a member of the Plan II Honors program. She is currently working on her senior thesis in the Department of Psychology as well as a Junior Fellows thesis and Plan II project in the Department of Theatre and Dance. She plans to attend graduate school in psychology or business. Stephanie has been working closely with Dr. Stacy Wolf researching the larger societal context of the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Company.