Lauren Smith

In July, 2023, I graduated from the University of Hull with a 2:1 in American Studies, completing my degree with a dissertation focusing on the life and legacy of an inspirational American feminist, Shulamith Firestone. Whilst analysing her progressivist views and revolutionary ideas involving the future of women, motherhood, and technology, I looked into how her career has impacted modern feminism, and how it has become relevant in a modern American society.

Within the Treatied Spaces Internship, I am looking into government documents surrounding the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, and Native Alaskan Land Claims, during Richard Nixon’s presidency in the early 1970s, alongside Dr. Kimberly Weir and Prof. Joy Porter. The Internship is a chance for me to develop many skills, for example organisation, through the grouping of documents in relation to different themes and chronology.

I am incredibly grateful and honoured to be a part of the Treatied Spaces team, which is helping me to develop confidence within myself and within a work environment. The experience and knowledge that I gain every day is invaluable to a recent graduate like myself.