Many thesis resources available to Barrett Honors College students

As a student in Barrett, The Honors College at the Arizona State University at the West Valley campus, Tina Vuong took advantage of many resources that helped her complete an honors thesis.

“My research process was enhanced through the thesis pathways course and workshops, providing me structure and clarity on resources I could benefit from,” said Vuong, a double major in psychology and behavioral science, who completed an honors thesis titled Gratitude, Feelings of Indebtedness, and Impulsivity that evaluated whether gratitude increases feelings of indebtedness and decreases impulsivity.

In addition to the thesis pathways course and workshops, Vuong relied on the guidance of her thesis directors, Katherine Nelson-Coffey and John Coffey, both associate professors in the ASU School of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

“My thesis directors provided crucial guidance and feedback during the development of my research project, writing process, and defense. I was able to further develop skills that opened opportunities within academic and professional settings, setting me up for a brighter future,” Vuong said.

Vuong also received thesis funding from Barrett Honors College that allowed her to expand her research project with a larger pool of study participants, strengthening the reliability of research results and relevance based on a wider demographic.   

Throughout the thesis process, she also was in constant contact with her academic advisors and faculty honors advisors to ensure her project was progressing efficiently and she was on track for graduation.

“All of these resources were integral in creating a strong thesis and further enriching my academic experience,” she said.

Barrett Honors College students have access to many resources to help them complete an honors thesis, including:

• The Barrett Thesis Workshop, in which students can brainstorm topics, learn about the honors thesis process, gain feedback on ideas, ask questions, and create an honors thesis to-do list. Enroll in a thesis workshop here.
• The Barrett Thesis/Creative Project Student Guidebook, which outlines each stage of the thesis process, from proposal to final submission. The guidebook is available at the bottom of this page.
• The Barrett Thesis/Creative Project Digital Collection at the ASU Library, an online collection that features the work of Barrett students and provides a research model for current students looking to find faculty sponsorship and develop their own project.
• ASU Library Barrett Peer Mentors, who can guide fellow students in effectively locating, evaluating and using library resources to develop their research for the thesis.
• The Barrett Writing Center, which offers thesis support services to help with structure, style, and editing.
• The Thesis Reimbursment Fund. Which offers up to $1,000 in reimbursement of expenses in support of thesis projects.
• Honors academic advisors and faculty honors advisors.
• Honors Thesis Pathways course, which provides a structured experience in completing your thesis, while researching a  topic  of interest.
• Founders Lab, which provides guidance and support for thesis entrepreneurial opportunities. 
• GlobalResolve, an international service-learning program that enhances educational experience and supports thesis project work.

Vuong highly encourages students to use thesis resources and to, most importantly, work closely with faculty who serve as thesis directors and advisors.

“Do not hesitate to ask for guidance from your ASU faculty and staff! Your thesis directors have a wealth of knowledge and can provide valuable insight on whatever niche project you desire to pursue. Your advisors and counselors are here to provide guidance on the process of the thesis,” she said.

“I have sent out plenty of emails and scheduled meetings riddled with questions and concerns, and I have always been met with kindness and consideration. Without the support of my thesis directors and the Barrett Honors College staff, I would not have been as self-assured in my ability to achieve my goals.”