This summer, our Graduate Research Assistant, Sabrina Zarza, participated in a research journey with our team. In this Q&A, she shares her reflections on the experience, talking about the new challenges, what she learned along the way, and rewarding moments that made her experience memorable.
1. What sparkled your interest in joining PROSPECT and how would you describe your research focus this summer?
My dissertation journey has led me to examine the structural aspects of universities, so PROSPECT’s investigation of transfer partnerships felt like a natural connection. I also began my own postsecondary journey at Fullerton Community College before transferring to Cal State Fullerton, where I earned my B.A. and M.A. in Mathematics. This research opportunity resonates deeply with my academic path and allows me to explore how institutional structures shape student experiences.
2. Was there anything surprising or unexpected in what you learned?
As someone who made the jump from community college to a four-year university with the support of just one (very dedicated) college counselor, I didn’t realize how formalized and intentional transfer partnerships could be. I’ve been pleasantly surprised to see the level of investment from faculty and staff who are committed to building and sustaining these programs to support student success.
3. What was the most enjoyable aspect of your research experience?
I’ve especially enjoyed listening to interviews and hearing how positively people speak about their work. The student voices have been particularly powerful, hearing them describe their positive experiences in transfer programs has been both affirming and inspiring.
4. How has this experience shaped your thinking about research and how do you think it will contribute to your professional journey?
This work has pushed me to think more deeply about the structural and relational elements that influence student success. Even partnerships at the institutional level often come down to the quality of relationships between colleagues, and those relationships can make a tremendous difference for students. I’ve also learned a great deal from the research team I am working with, professors and graduate students alike, whose collaboration and generosity of ideas will continue to shape my work well beyond my work on this team.
5. What advice would you give a student considering a summer research experience, and why (or why not) would you recommend it?
I’d encourage students to have open conversations with professors about their interests and the kinds of experiences they hope to have. Being clear and communicative can help you find the right fit. I highly recommend pursuing a summer research experience as it’s a chance to develop or fine tune research skills and build meaningful professional connections. It has also been really exciting to see how my contributions this summer have taken shape in our developing manuscript, which speaks to how supportive and encouraging.