Sometimes examining the past can unlock answers for the future. 

New York native and University Enrichment Fellow Joyce-Zoe Farley believes this.

The recipient of multiple fellowships and a Columbia University alumna, Farley could have chosen to pursue her graduate education around the digital humanities anywhere in the country – but chose Michigan State for the freedom she would have to pursue her passions.

“Here at MSU, it’s like a gateway to opportunity,” Farley said. “There are so many things to explore because we’re hooked up to so many different avenues of opportunity, fellowships and study abroad.” 

Farley, who is currently working toward a Ph.D. at MSU, is examining race, riots and rebellion in 1967 Detroit. Since 2009, she has worked to gather oral histories of those who lived through the uprisings, which will ultimately become a thesis project.  

Learn more about supporting graduate students like Farley at Michigan State University.

Written by Sarah Wardell