Bom dia! My name is Katie, and I am from East Lansing, Michigan. I recently graduated from Michigan State University, and now I am living in Brazil, researching media's influence on children's wellbeing in Brazil! I am excited to take you along on my journey to meet new friends, understand a new culture, and learn a new place.
I am living in Salvador, Brazil as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar at the Federal University of Bahia. I applied to this research program because I wanted to better understand how children in Brazil were impacted by influences like social media, and if this influence differs from the United States. Recent studies have shown that kids who are exposed to unrealistic beauty standards on platforms like Instagram and TikTok are less satisfied with their appearance, which can lead to destructive behaviors and feelings. I want to make a difference in helping children become more confident in who they are and help combat comparison to harmful beauty standards.
Salvador is the oldest city in Brazil, and it used to be Brazil's capital! However, the city has a long history of colonialization and enslavement because it was used as a major port for the slave trade. Now, Salvador has one of the highest Afro-Brazilian populations in the entire country. The city is known for Afro-Brazilian culture, especially in its music and food. I look forward to learning more about the city's history and culture while I am here, and I am excited to take you along with me.
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
