Sydney M. Email and Phone Number

Cultural Research and Thesis: My interest in the field of healthcare has led me to delve deep into the intricacies of medical traditions from different cultures. My research journey culminated in a thesis titled "How Balance Meets the Body: A Comparative Study of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Medieval Medicinal Systems."In the spring of 2023, I embarked on a captivating journey for my Senior Thesis within the Willamette University Department of Global Cultural Studies. Focusing on the theme of balance, I meticulously crafted a comparative analysis that intertwined Medieval medicine's Four Humoral theory with Traditional Chinese Medicine's Yin and Yang symbolism. Through extensive research encompassing Ancient Greek and Roman medicine, Medieval practices, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, I unearthed valuable insights into how these historical perspectives can inform contemporary healthcare and address health equity issues, arguing for the synonymous nature of balance and equity as concepts. My dedication to bridging the past with the present underscores my commitment to innovative and culturally responsible solutions. I was invited to present my senior research during the 2023 Student Scholarship Recognition Day at Willamette University. This annual event serves as a platform for students to showcase their research findings to peers, faculty, family, and friends. I was humbled to stand before this diverse audience, sharing my insights and discoveries.Illness Narrative - Medical Anthropology Insight:I conducted an in-depth interview with an individual named Rose, gaining profound insights into their journey of living with Vasovagal Syncope. Through careful design, I captured Rose's narrative, transcribing it into a tangible written document. The subsequent interpretive, qualitative, and comparative analysis helped shed light on the intricate facets of their experience. Presenting my findings through an autobiographical paper and sharing their story in front of peers and my professor, this experience deepened my understanding of patient experiences and the significance of empathy in healthcare.