Michelle Grzybowski is currently finishing up her master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology as well as her women’s and gender studies (WGS) graduate certificate.
She recently presented her master’s thesis, “Gender Exclusive Language: Women’s Perception of Linguistic Ostracism, Voice, and Power in Politics” at the 21st Annual Women’s and Gender Studies Symposium. Grzybowski also received the 2016 Illinois State University Future Alumni Leader Award.
When she’s not in class or conducting research, she enjoys yoga, refining her meditation practice, travelling, painting, drawing, and many other creative outlets! Congratulations on your upcoming graduation, Michelle!
What career plans or academic goals are you currently pursuing?
My position as a graduate assistant at the Julia N. Visor Center has actually consolidated my decision to pursue a career in student affairs. I hope to use my research and experience in order to become a diversity specialist or program coordinator at a college or university. Therefore, I also plan to further my graduate tenure at the college student personnel administration program at ISU in order to meet these goals and further my research on social equity in educational settings (ISU is going to have a really hard time getting rid of me, I love this university)!
Michelle Grzybowski receiving the 2016 Illinois State University Future Alumni Leader Award.
What advice do you have for those either in WGS or thinking about WGS minor/grad certificate?
Oh my goodness, do it! Everyone associated with the WGS program (faculty, staff, and students) are so incredibly supportive and will positively impact your life in more ways than one. Join the WGS family at ISU, and you will NOT be disappointed!
As for those already in WGS (great choice, by the way), I would recommend becoming more involved with the program. Consider joining an RSO *cough* Sister Circles (see below) *cough* or volunteering/participating in an event! Doing so will add another dimension to your learning and allow you to further explore your role as a WGS minor/major/student.
Michelle Grzybowski presenting “Gender Exclusive Language: Women’s Perception of Linguistic Ostracism, Voice, and Power in Politics”
We heard that you created an RSO. Tell us about it!
Yes! Inspired by my role as a facilitator for this year’s Sister Circles event (an annual full-day workshop aimed at providing support to students who identify as female), I started an organization meant to empower, inspire, and support women in our community on their personal wellness journeys.
The RSO is meant to educate and provide resources for women at ISU as well as provide female solidarity and empowerment! Meetings will consist of topics and activities such as: Yoga 101 (e.g., intro to yoga, tools, types), Meditation 101, Healthy Eating/Cooking Workshop (e.g., healthy/easy recipes and snack ideas, DIY cookbook), Vision board/scrapbook making, Financial Wellness Workshop(s), Health Gadgets/Apps Workshop (e.g., Fitness trackers, Meditation apps, Water intake Tracker apps, Happiness apps, etc.), and so much more!
If anyone is interested in being a part of this group please email me at mgrzybo@IllinoisState.edu.
