Student NameSteph Strickland
Faculty Mentor NameYulia Strekalova
CollegeCollege of Journalism and Communications
MajorTelecommunications - Management and Strategy
MinorBusiness Entrepreneurship
Research InterestsPower, Mental Health, Media and Technology, Social Media, Social Venues, Psychology, Respect
Academic AwardsNational Collegiate Honors Council Delegate for the UF Honors Program
OrganizationsJournalism College Ambassadors; The Agency at UF; The Independent Florida Alligator; UF Honors Program; PRISM Honors Magazine; UF Health; National Collegiate Honors Council; Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society
Hobbies and InterestsYoga; Hiking; Baking vegan desserts; Watching documentaries

Research Project

Understanding the social influence of alcohol consumption in ROTC programs

For the purpose of this program I propose to investigate the relationship between alcohol drinking habits of college-aged students as it relates to the habits of those around them. In particular, I want to investigate this relationship in the context of ROTC programs in various social venues. These programs, which exist in every state across the country, all fundamentally promote ideals of respect, leadership and commitment. I am looking to investigate whether these ideals have an immediate effect on members of the program when it comes to socialization habits – specifically alcohol consumption and if these power dynamics have long-term effects. This research would have to be conducted through surveying to maintain anonymity, though both qualitative and quantitative questions will be posed. This research can be used to better understand power dynamics of military-programs as it relates to the behavior and mental health of its participants.