Pop Prophets: How Celebrity Culture Shapes Gen Z'S Worldview, Olivia G. Usie

Honors Theses

Generation Z has grown up in a social environment shaped by constant connectivity, digital communication, and immediate access to the lives of others. Because of this, celebrity culture and pop culture may play a larger role in shaping attitudes, behaviors, and identity than they did for previous generations. This study explores how celebrity culture shapes Gen Z’s worldview through four areas: pop culture, celebrity, herd mentality, and cancel culture.

A mixed-method approach was used. Quantitative data was collected through a 28-question survey of 202 participants ages 18–25. Qualitative data was gathered through one focus group of eight participants and three …

Neuroprotective Effects Of Estradiol And Genistein And Interactions With Aromatase Inhibitions Post Cerebellar Lesion In Male Zebra Finches, Grace E. Thompson, Anthony P. Irovic

Honors Theses

Across vertebrates, peripheral and brain-derived estradiol (E₂) promotes neuroplasticity. After injury, E₂ can be derived locally from testosterone via aromatase (AROM), an enzyme that is upregulated in glia at the site of neural injury. E₂disrupts testicular function and elevates cancer and stroke risk, primarily via binding to estrogen receptor alpha (ER α). Genistein (GEN), a phytoestrogen, is similar to E₂ but binds preferentially to estrogen receptor beta (ER β). It may offer neuroprotection without adverse effects of E₂. We used adult male zebra finches (ZF) to model neuroprotective effects of E_{2 …}

Structural Design And Analysis Of The Civil Engineering Capstone Project, William R. Webster

Honors Theses

The structural elements of a office building designed for the University of Mississippi civil engineering senior design project were designed and analyzed. The proposed building is a shared office building located on an empty parcel on Oxford Commons Boulevard. Using the 2018 International Building Code (IBC), the structural loads were determined to be the following: 20 psf roof live load, 20 psf dead load, 20 psf snow load, and 15.6 psf rain load. These loads yielded a factored LRFD design load of 56 pdf. Using these loads and manuals provided by Nucor Vulcraft, the roof deck was determined to be …

Financial Reporting, Strategy, And Legislation: A Study Of Post Holdings And Relevant Accounting Topics, Noah Harkins

Honors Theses

This thesis examines multiple areas of financial reporting, business strategy, and legislation. This was performed through a series of case studies completed in Accounting 420, where the purpose of the class was to apply accounting concepts to real-world business situations. The cases cover multiple areas of financial reporting, including asset theory, 10-K analysis, audit risk assessment, corporate legislation, business strategy, data analytics, economic policy, and professional leadership. The main analysis focuses on Post Holdings, with supporting cases involving Tyson Foods, the Corporate Transparency Act, Thomas Sowell, Ronald Reagan, and broader accounting theory.

The research process used throughout the thesis consisted …

Optimization And Dynamic Control Of Acetone Production From Isopropyl Alcohol, Thomas W. Wasson

Honors Theses

This paper investigates the optimization and dynamic control of acetone production via catalytic dehydrogenation of isopropyl alcohol. Optimization was conducted using steady-state Aspen Plus modeling with product specifications of 30,000 metric tons per year of 99.9% pure acetone by weight. Dynamic modeling of the feed preparation and reaction portions of the process was conducted in Aspen Plus Dynamic. Through optimization efforts the primary economic factor, net present value (NPV), was increased from $(126.6) million to $(83.2) million, representing a $43.4 million increase. This was primarily accomplished through a switch to low temperature catalyst, optimization of reactor dimensions, pressurization of key …

Final Practicum Thesis And Portfolio From Accy 421: Professional Development Reviewing The Economic Effects Of Maha Initiatives On Conagra Brands Financial Statements And Studies On Business Professionals, Everett B. Heuer

Honors Theses

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential legislative changes brought about by Robert F Kennedy Jr. and the “Make America Healthy Again” campaign to uncover possible financial effects to Conagra Brands’ next fiscal year. This was achieved through research on RFK’s opinions on American food culture from sources such as interviews and Senate confirmation hearings. Findings included disapproval of seed oils and artificial food dyes that could affect Conagra Brands’ subsidiaries. After reviewing Conagra Brands’ 10k for the previous fiscal year as well as mission statements and core values, the team developed multiple plans for Conagra Brands …

The Rise Of Realism And The Search For Justice In 19th Century Literature, Isabella R. Clark

Honors Theses

This thesis follows parallel legal and literary arcs towards “Realism.” While these two movements do not have the exact same timeline, they both characterized the 19th century. This thesis intertwines the literary shift towards writing that more closely resembles reality with the legal realist aim at a justice that more closely relates to its society. As we look at three novels from the 19th century, we will see how the change in literary form relates to a change in legal philosophy as the popular literary style and goal was later formalized by the law. In our study of each novel, …

Beyond The Rally Effect: U.S. Military Deployments And Their Independent Impact On Presidential Approval, Griffin M. Petersen

Honors Thesis

This thesis examines the relationship between the United States military and presidential job approval ratings from 1955 to 2021 through a mixed method approach. Using a multiple regression analysis, the study tested the independent effects of total active-duty troop levels and the frequency of active overseas conflicts while controlling for economic variables such as GDP and unemployment. The quantitative results indicate that while military variables are significantly correlated with approval in isolation, these effects diminish or disappear when analyzed alongside economic indicators. Specifically, the size of the military was a weak predictor of public approval, potentially due to low public …

Barriers And Opportunities In Women-Led Dental Entrepreneurship, Eliza Grace Ulmer

Honors Theses

Barriers and Opportunities in Women-Led Dental Entrepreneurship

This research examines the barriers that women encounter when attempting to open their own business. Specifically, this research will concentrate in the dental field and health care industry. Attaining the education, skills, knowledge and criteria to become a licensed dentist is extremely difficult. Adding the licensed dentist opening their own practice adds another layer of difficulty. These challenges are further compounded when the practitioner is a woman.

This research interviewed women dentists in the business as well as entrepreneurs that opened their own health practice. These interviews showed the process and requirements needed …

A Transgenerational Analysis Of Factors Influencing Fertility Among Jamaican Men, Shanique Deniellia Essuman

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

Automated Evaluation Of Web Accessibility In Cybersecurity Tools, William Robert Cox

Theses and Dissertations

Screen reader users face significant barriers when using web-based cybersecurity tools, however, the accessibility of these interfaces has received minimal systematic research attention. Existing automated evaluation tools assess Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) conformance but do not measure the practical operability of complex and domain-specific interfaces for users of assistive technology. This dissertation presents the Deciphering Interfaces for Your Accessibility (DIYA) framework, an open-source automated auditing framework that evaluates cybersecurity tool web interfaces across eight normalized dimensions: WCAG conformance, Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA) usage, semantic structure, keyboard operability, form accessibility, dynamic content accessibility, interaction cost, and screen reader readiness. …

Know But Not Recognized? Québec, The United States And The Thresholds For Diplomatic Recognition, Thomas Forget

Student Theses

This thesis examines the conditions under which the United States would recognize an independent Québec diplomatically and how it would maintain stable institutional relations with it. It also examines the extent of Québec’s paradiplomatic network’s reach in the United States, and how it influences the relationship and the probability of recognition. Based on a qualitative case study using process tracing and conceptual analysis, the thesis proposes that the institutional density of the Québec-US relationship increases the probability of functional continuity and, potentially, of programmatic cooperation after independence. However, this would not lower the significant political, legal, and strategic US thresholds …

The Intersection Of Faculty Perceptions Of Student Evaluations Of Teaching And Nursing Retention: The Challenges Of Undergraduate Nursing Programs In Higher Education Institutions, Melissa Wolff

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

For over 100 years, higher education institutions in the United States of America have been using student evaluations of teaching (SET) to evaluate course effectiveness and teaching quality. SETs are used to inform faculty about areas where course improvements are needed, if course objectives have been met, and the strength of their teaching ability. Even with the longstanding integration of SETs in higher education their reliability and validity have been questioned. Various factors negatively influence student ranking of faculty including class size, faculty appearance, ethnicity, and gender. SETs also impact faculty’s ability to earn tenure and promotion, which raises concerns …

Exploring The Skills Gap And Implications Of Science Technology Engineering And Mathematics Graduates And Professional Laboratory Staff, Indrajee Wewaliyadda

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

The noticeable expansion of the biotech and research industries, fueled by increased funding due to the 2019 pandemic (Wallace et al., 2022), which increased the existing skills gap among fresh STEM graduates entering professional laboratories. This study aims to evaluate whether bachelor’s degree holders in biological sciences possess the necessary laboratory competencies to meet professional demands. Utilizing survey methods and Kolb’s experiential learning model (Kolb, 1984), the research examines the extent and implications of the skill deficiencies observed. The study helps to understand the gap in practical laboratory skills among new graduates. Further, results from this work will show the …

Strength, Growth, And Self-Discovery: A Journey Of Reflection And Development, Kristen M. Glover

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

The self-analysis is a way to dive into personal strengths and growth that have shaped the growth of a career and profession. The self-analysis project examines the past, present, and future. The process of self-analysis reflects one’s ability to relate and educate with full potential, while understanding that more personal experiences determine the ability to accept and recognize other perspectives. Reflecting on individual growth and development enables one to serve and support others in the counseling field. This self-analysis analyzes intimate thoughts, theoretical assessments, significant others’ perspectives of the author, and theoretical conceptualizations allowing for more successful individualized planning and …

Analysis Of Self, Adam D. Krebsbach

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Analysis of Self

A Thesis Presented to

the Graduate Faculty of

Minnesota State University Moorhead

By

Adam Daniel Krebsbach

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Degree of

Master of Science in Clinical Mental

Health Counseling

March 2026

Moorhead, Minnesota

Abstract

“Selah” represents an intentional pause—a moment to reflect, reassess, and seek deeper understanding. Through a process of self-analysis, I have embraced the opportunity to practice Selah by consulting with loved ones, reflecting on past opportunities and mistakes, and challenging my own thoughts and behaviors. The purpose of this project is to explore who I was, who I am, …

From Healing To Helping: Turning Pain Into Purpose, Amber Oslowski

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Abstract

This paper reflects on my life over the past thirty-six years, with a primary focus on the challenges and adversities that have shaped my personal development. This paper outlines how I navigated difficult and traumatic experiences and the processes through which I was able, and continue, to heal and grow. This reflection tells the story of how various experiences throughout my life have influenced my perspective and resilience and gave me a sense of purpose through being able to help and support others facing hardships of their own. Additionally, this reflection reveals how this masters counseling program through Minnesota …

Analysis Of Self, Annika Gb Anderson

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Abstract

This paper is an analysis of my personal experiences, relationships, development, and how these factors have shaped who I am personally and professionally. I reflect on different areas of my life including my relationships, academic and career journey, mental, chemical, and physical health, cultural identity, coping strategies, strengths, and personal interests. I also discuss the results and personal impact of personality and career assessments as well as interviews with family members who know me well. Through this process, I gained a deeper understanding of how my life experiences have influenced my values, beliefs, and approach to counseling. I found …

Understanding Myself As A Helping Professional, Mia Duncan

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This paper reflects on my own personal experiences that have shaped the person I am both personally and professionally. The purpose of this paper is to showcase the emotional, mental, and physical events I have gone through as well as the work I have done to overcome these challenging events to better serve my future students and clients. I have identified pivotal relationships in my life, therapeutic approaches that have worked for my own development, as well as what I use to help my students as a school counselor, and what my plans are after I graduate to continue as …

Megan Doebbeling Plan B Project, Megan J. Doebbeling

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This self-analysis project explores my personal, academic, and professional gorwth as I work toward becoming a school counselor. Through reflection on my relationships, family background, career path, and life experiences, I examine how these have shaped my approach to helping others. I identify both strengths as well as areas for growth for personal and professional development. This paper also outlines my evolving theoretical orientation, grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and a holistic wellness perspective, all of which align with my belief in strengths-based, actionable counseling. Finally, insights from formal assessments and interviews with close family …

On The Outside Looking In: A Reflection Of Self, Andrew J. Bates

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

As a musical theater enthusiast, song lyrics hold deeper meaning for me than poems or historical quotes. One line from Hamilton that is particularly meaningful to me is, “I am the one thing in life I can control. I am inimitable. I am an original.” (Lin-Manuel Miranda, 2015, 1:34). Through my exploration of self, I have found these three things to be true. By re-walking the path of my past, through my childhood, relationships, and growth, I have discovered just how original I truly am. This theme emerged again whilst examining my theoretical conceptualization. Many others may use the same …

My Journey Into Discovering How My Experiences Shape Who I Am Today, Sabrina K. Forde-Kerbaugh

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This is an ‘Analysis of Self’ portfolio that goes through many key points and people that have shaped the person I am today. This paper will start with going through my background information, which will range from my close relationships, to my favorite activities and hobbies. The second section will go through two different self-assessments and what I learned from completing each of them. The third section of this paper will go through the results of the interviews I completed with a handful of my close family members and friends. After going through the themes from conducting my interviews, I …

Countless Journeys: Becoming A Mental Health Counselor, David Smallen

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This self-analysis articulates the author’s process of developing, across his own lifetime, personal aspects essential to professional practice as a mental health counselor. Explored in this paper are the author’s experiences across diverse areas of development, including: relationships, culture, mental and physical health, career and hobby interests, and personal strengths. The author’s theoretical orientations towards therapeutic practice, including the lenses of Psychosocial Lifespan Development, Relational-Cultural Theory, and Existential Theory, are articulated and connected to his personal narrative. Results from two personality inventories, the VIA Character Strengths Inventory and the Primals Inventory are presented and discussed, as are key points from …

The Life Of A Walking Oxymoron: An Analysis Of A Cynical Optimist, Lydia Mae Anderson

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Abstract

These pages very briefly summarize 23 years of my life, my development, and my experiences using an eclectic array of topics, including but not limited to, my past and present social influences (family, friends, romantic relationship), mental and physical health, strengths and weaknesses, cultural influences, and assessments. The intent of this project was to gain a deeper understanding of who I am and what makes me the person I am today with the secondary goal of bolstering my ability to be an effective counselor. I feel that this intent was achieved, because in writing this, I was able to …

A Moment For Pause, Jared J. Saunders

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This essay outlines the life of Jared Saunders, from his birth in 1995 to the day this was written in 2026. Born, raised, and educated in Minnesota, he grew up in a stable household with a moderate sized family. Trained to be an educator, he has recently redirected his career path towards becoming a school counselor in the hopes that he can better serve his students. Throughout the process of researching and writing for this essay, the author reflected on his life and the mechanisms that steadily sculpted him into the person he is today. After chronologically reflecting on his …

Layers Of Self: Unpacking Identity And Experience, Alayna N. Gary

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

In this paper I explored myself through my history, assessments, feedback, theories, and personal & professional reflection. In the background section, I looked at formative life experiences & developmental theory, my worldview, and why I chose this career path. Using the assessments Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory, I gained a better understanding of my personality strengths and career alignment. Interpersonal interviews with my family members, coworker, and classmate all revealed common themes in myself and how others view me. I conceptualized how several theories including Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Adlerian, relate to my personal and professional identity. I integrated …

Between Sessions: Counseling The Counselor In Training – The Long Conversation, Ashley J. Sather

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

The analysis of self can open up new opportunities to reflect on experiences that shape us. Exploring past experiences that got us to where we are now, looking at present experiences and perspectives, as well as looking forward to future career goals all have a part in knowing yourself. Learning about my own journey will help me in supporting others through theirs. What I have been through with family and friends, my faith, my academic career, and my culture have created the person I am. I used assessment and theoretical orientation exploration to gather deeper information into who I am …

The Child I Was, The Individual And Counselor I Am Becoming: A Theoretical Self Conceptualization, Jill Neustel

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Abstract

This paper examines the development of my personal and professional identity with the help of multiple counseling theories: Family Systems Theory, Developmental Trauma Theory, Adlerian Theory, and Existential Theory. By reflecting on my life experiences, I connect how childhood and family relationships, inconsistent caregiving, and emotional unpredictability impacted my development of self, the ability to cope, and function within various relationships. From my family dynamics, I became hypervigilant, had chronic self-doubt, and a persistent belief that something was wrong with me. My childhood contributed to my internalized shame, masking behaviors, and seeking external validation. Through theoretical integration, I was …

Plan B- Self Analysis, Michaela K. Halvorson

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

The background information includes the topics of: family/relationships, academics, mental, chemical, and physical health, culture, resilience, and coping skills of the writer. Addressing what has impacted the writer’s life and development is covered. Topics of impact are family structure, heart issues, and my own mental health issues. Application of the assessments, Myers-Briggs type indicator, and the Strong Interest Inventory, then interviews of five people close to the writer, and the counseling theories: wounded healer, disenfranchised grief, and Bowen's family system theory were used in conceptualizing the writer's background information. A reflection of professional identity and a plan to continue professional …

My Existence And Experience, Ava Aigner

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This analysis of self-paper aided me in exploring and reflecting on personal experiences that had a direct impact on my development and identity. Several elements aided in developing an indepth analysis of self, including taking and interpreting assessments, engaging in interviews with significant individuals and reflecting on their responses, and the integration of relevant theories throughout the paper in order to develop a conceptualization of self. Through this analysis, I have reflected on my life, which has helped me become more self-aware and confident in my professional abilities as I continue to evolve and learn. Keywords: Attachment styles, relationships, family, …