Hayden Pierce

Experience in the Lab

I began working as a research assistant with near zero knowledge about linguistics, but Dr. Fafulas graciously allowed me to join and work on one of his current projects. I understood what the data was and how it was acquired after his explanation, but it wasn’t until a few months of coding that I realized exactly what the project was seeking to do. The pear story project focuses on subject pronoun acquisition for learners of Spanish, a part of the process not directly taught in the classroom but learned over time. I helped to categorize the expression and form of the subject, and, later, assisted in presenting our current findings to the Modern Languages Department and at the Southeastern Conference on Linguistics. 

My experience in the SoCIOLing Lab has aided in my understanding of linguistics, expanded my Spanish vocabulary, enhanced my critical thinking skills, and given me the confidence to present complex data. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Lab, and I would encourage anyone interested to see what it’s all about, even if it’s outside of your comfort zone. 

My role as a research assistant helped me to gain an internship as I could better (and more honestly) market my analytical and presenting skills. I  interned this summer for the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. 

Fun facts about yourself/interests/hobbies

In my freetime, I enjoy playing tennis and watching professional players. I am studying abroad next spring in Cordoba, Argentina, and I plan on joining the University's tennis team in order to make friends and keep my game alive.