Bronwyn and her poster!
Author: Parish Bronwyn | Major: Psychology | Semester: Summer 2025
My name is Bronwyn Parish, and I am an undergraduate sophomore student at the University of Arkansas majoring in psychology and minoring in anthropology and business management. I am currently participating in the SPHERE research lab on campus lead by Dr. Mitch Brown. Under the guidance of my excellent research mentor, I have been permitted to conduct a study of my own, which I presented this summer at the Northeastern Evolutionary Psychology Society (NEEPS) conference in Atlantic City, New Jersey!
The work I presented analyzed perceived stereotypes of exotic or conventional pet owners with the modifier of cosmetic use. We found interesting correlations between long-term and short-term mating in individuals who own an exotic pet vs a non-exotic pet–the most interesting being that a woman who owns an exotic pet and wears makeup is overwhelmingly seen as more interested in short-term mating. This research serves to better understand the roots of misogynistic stereotypes and how unconventional variables, such as pet ownership, can influence opinions on women.
I was accepted to present a poster at the NEEPS in Atlantic City, New Jersey. This was my first experience attending a research conference, and I learned so much from watching other presenters. Not only did I learn from other researchers, but I also got the chance to connect with them. Some research from people around the world aligned with my personal research interests going forward in my career, and I got the chance to network with these bright minds. One excellent networking opportunity NEEPS offered was the student luncheon, where each table had a research advisor from a different school to ask questions to regarding networking, research, graduate programs, and more. The faculty member who sat at my table had excellent advice and made me very excited to apply to graduate school.
As this was my first time presenting research, there were nerves. However, the encouraging and kind demeanor of every student and faculty member attending the conference allowed for an extremely pleasant experience presenting. I loved answering questions and describing my methods, especially since there was such genuine interest in my work! Listening to other presenters also gave me exciting ideas for research moving forward.
I had a small group of friends from my research lab that I attended most of the conference with, which I am very grateful I had. A couple of students from other schools across the country eventually joined our group, and we had the chance to discuss our current research and ideas moving forward. The idea of collaborating on research with students from other universities is very exciting, and there were so many opportunities for this kind of work here.
For any student considering presenting, or simply attending a research conference, I absolutely recommend it. Even if you are not presenting your own work, the opportunity to talk to and connect to researchers is unique at conferences. Overall, it is a very inspiring experience! If you are presenting research, my biggest word of advice is that there is no need to be nervous– students and professors are very encouraging and genuinely interested in learning about your work. Presenting is a great way to improve presenting and writing skills.
Next for me, I am interested in presenting at more conferences next year. I would love to do a talk or a data blitz, as well as present a poster again. The University of Arkansas’ honors program is so encouraging, and the ability to print my poster at the university was so helpful. I feel inspired to continue this line of work.