Mary Gates Endowment For Students

Alice Xing

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Winter 2022

Research Project: Perceptions of Racial Colorblindness

Project Description: Racially colorblind statements (e.g. “I don’t see race”) can be interpreted in two main ways. Either, they may be interpreted as denying that racial discrimination is still an issue today, or they may be interpreted as denying that race determines who people are. How do stereotype endorsements, political leaning, and familiarity with US culture affect how people interpret colorblind statements?

What have you learned throughout your research project?

You’re going to do things incorrectly or sub-optimally, and that’s okay. That’s normal. What’s important is that you keep persevering, keep fixing your mistakes, and learn to avoid them in the future.

What piece of advice do you have for future applicants?

Even if you don’t think you’d be selected to receive the scholarship, apply anyway! It can be great motivation to get started on your project and gain some more experience. Writing the application furthermore is, at the very least, good practice for the personal statements and cover letters you may have to write in the future.