Undergraduate Research Assistants

Princess Igwe-Icho (Class of 2025)

Princess is from Dallas, Texas, originally from Nigeria, triple-majoring in Philosophy, Political Science, and Corporate Communication & Public Affairs, with a Pre-Law focus. As a research assistant for the Voices of SMU project, she is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices, particularly from the Black/African American and first-generation communities, to drive institutional change and increase funding for these groups. Princess also serves as the Communications Manager for the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce and as a National Research Intern for Campus Vote Project.

Michelle Ma (Class of 2025)

Michelle is pursuing bachelor’s degrees in international studies and accounting with a minor in Chinese. As a research assistant, Michelle strives to uplift the stories of underrepresented groups on campus so that every story can be told. Through working with VOSMU, Michelle hopes to gain insight into what a life in academia could be since that is a career path she wants to explore. She believes diversity is critical and has been an officer of SMU’s East Asian Student Association for the past year and is now their upcoming president. She’s also the Graphic Design Chair for Program Council and a Project Leader for Mustang Heroes.  Michelle enjoys fun, creative activities such as drawing, crocheting, and baking in her spare time.

Amanda Sun (Class of 2026)
 
Amanda is a a sophomore from Plano, TX, studying statistics, data science, and economics with a minor in computer science and business. Her academic focus revolves around analyzing data, uncovering insights, and making informed decisions, all of which will (hopefully) help her become an accomplished Data Analyst in the future. Through programs such as VOSMU, she aims to give past Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students a voice and raise awareness about their experiences. She is passionate about promoting inclusivity, cultural understanding, and empowering AAPI individuals on and off-campus. Apart from her studies, Amanda actively participates in the East Asian Student Association, where she contributes to fostering cultural appreciation and diversity. In her free time, she enjoys jogging, listening to music, and indulging in Minecraft with her friends, specifically engaging in architectural projects and world-building adventures.
Jenna Young (Class of 2026)
 
Jenna is a junior from Allen, Texas, majoring in Political Science and Psychology on the Pre-Law track, with a minor in Law and Legal Reasoning. Jenna is a proud team member and research assistant for the Voices of SMU Project, and hopes to help promote inclusivity and cultural understanding at SMU and for the broader Dallas community. She is particularly interested in hearing the insights and experiences of LGBTQ+ facility and alumni to help amplify and uplift their perspectives and voices. In her free time, Jenna works as a Resident Assistant at SMU, and is an active member of the Student Senate and Mustang Band.
Jenna Young