Communication Studies Opens New Research I Published October 16

By: Nefertiti Nzameyo

A classroom dedicated to research in the field of communication and media is a manifestation of Kean University’s mission to be a powerhouse of new knowledge.

The research lab located in CAS Room 441 is still in the process of being “beautified” but already awaits a band of scholars prepping to join forces and rebrand the role of what it means to be a college student.

“I know that college is often framed as go get a degree and learn but you’re also just as integral a part of the knowledge production process and the artistic production process…you’re moving knowledge forward as a student,” said Dr. Guitar, assistant Communication professor.

Julia Strugala, a second-year communication graduate student and former member of The Tower, earned her bachelor’s degree from Kean in ‘23 and jumped at the opportunity to be a research assistant.

“When I heard this space was opening up I thought that was really cool because I’m here to assist undergrad students in their research…it’s a space for them to comfortably do research in this building…it’s helpful to have all the communication professors along this hallway,” said Strugala.

Strugala is collaborating with Dr. Estelle Mi, who is conducting research on women’s health. An interest area that she herself finds intriguing.

“It’s a very welcoming and open environment and that’s what I hope to make this space for all the undergraduate students,” she said.

On August 29th, 2024, President Repollet reasserted his vision for the university in becoming an educational hub for research and realizing the heights that are more than possible to achieve in his opening day address.

‘We are in the midst of a significant educational transformation, a renaissance here at Kean – and that comes with profound responsibility,” said Repollet.

As Kean University aims to receive an R2 designation, a classification awarded to doctoral universities for “high research activity”, the research lab is a testament to the commitment to actualizing the academic mission by promising forward movement.

Guitar remembers how revelatory his undergraduate and graduate journey was to discovering his passions and pursuing a career that would invite him to practice what he loves. He similarly credits his faculty mentors for granting him the independence and motivation to find his interest and study.

The research lab embodies a reconciliation between his fondness for teaching and research, roles where he enjoys collaborating with students and sharing curiosity about the world.

“I really fell in love with teaching first, research became second but as I started doing more research I was like, oh my God I really really love doing this, and it was because I was able to foster and generate topics I was intrigued by.”

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