Unlocking My Potential: How Project KEY Showed Me I Belong in Research

Stepping into the world of academic research at a prestigious institution like UNC can feel daunting, especially when you carry the layers of being a first-generation college student, an international student, and a woman in technology and education. Coming from a background shaped by socioeconomic barriers, it is often difficult for me to look at environments of high academic rigor and excellence and instantly see a space where I can fit in. However, joining the Mathematics Potential Lab (MPL) as a research assistant for Project KEY completely transformed my perspective. The first time I looked at Dr. Rodrigues’ work with MPL, I felt so much alignment with what I hope to build as a Tar Heel and beyond. I knew I had to give it a try, and I'm so happy to now be a part of MPL. At MPL, we believe that every single individual, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance, has the potential to achieve and thrive in math. Being part of a team that invites everyone to learn while bridging research-backed solutions and diverse classrooms has not only allowed me to apply my passion for educational technology, but it has also shown me that our lived experiences and unique perspectives are exactly what make our contributions to research so valuable.

Through my work with Project KEY, I have seen firsthand how impactful it is to present in practical ways inclusive learning tools that empower students and educators alike. Additionally, I'm also discovering my own potential as a researcher, being able to suggest new research questions to the current projects we run at MPL and to pursue questions related to my other interests, such as learning analytics and artificial intelligence. Becoming a MPLer has taught me that academic excellence is a collaborative space that is made richer by diverse voices, like mine and yours. To anyone looking at research opportunities at UNC who is from a non-traditional background and/or is encountering barriers for pursuing a research path, remember that you belong in these spaces and your perspective is so valuable for making academia a more inclusive space.

By: Alice Araujo Dos Santos Araujo Lourenco