Interview with Autumn Reyes
The Rapoport Center opened a call for papers for graduate students across campus to submit papers relevant towards human rights, in hopes of generating discussion with both fellow graduate students and faculty within UT. This workshop operated in a way that utilized a method developed by the
Institute for Global Law and Policy at Harvard Law School, wherein other participants in the workshop would present each other’s work, which would then lead to further discussion on the work itself.
One of our own members of the Working Paper Series Editorial Committee, Autumn Reyes, was able to participate in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Workshop, which was organized with help from our own Apurva Gunturu. Briefly, we’re asking both Apurva and Autumn to share their thoughts on the process.
What drew you to this workshop?
AR: As an affiliated member of the Rapoport Center, the newsletter that comes out always informs me of new and upcoming events. As such, I thought that this workshop was a unique opportunity! Not only does it align with my research interests, but something of note was that as a graduate student we have
a tendency to be very insular with our own departments and research interests. The fact that this was pitched as interdisciplinary drew my attention immediately – as I hope to gain insight from fellow scholars.
What did you take away from the experience?
AR: So much! It was useful not only to gain valuable insight towards my own work but also to hear about other amazing academic pursuits happening the in LBJ School, the Law School, or in the History Department, to name a few. Being able to witness how human rights scholarship takes different avenues and shapes allowed me to appreciate the grand scope of all of these projects. Additionally, I found it to be a worthwhile experience in regards to discussing potential methodologies and how that could affect the pursuit of my project – something that I hadn’t thought of before! Lastly, something that I found unique and fantastic about the workshop was that the organizing committee were willing to reach out to faculty on campus on your behalf to come and attend the workshop. As such, I was able to gain insight in a formal setting towards my project from faculty in departments I wouldn’t have been able to work with otherwise (shout out to Dr. Hauser and Professor Laurin!).
What advice would you give to others thinking about going into this workshop?
AR: Coming in with an open mind is integral! The people attending the workshop are all brilliant minds who are there to help – such as pointing out gaps in projects. As such, it’s a great building opportunity. In addition, the fantastic organizing committee are able to work with your schedule so you can attend as much of the workshop as you’re able. Also – food was provided which is always a plus! I greatly encourage anyone to attend the workshop if they’re able.