Student Support Series: Meeting academics, UN officials, and NGO leaders in Colombia
For course-related fieldwork and conference funding, Green Templeton students can apply for Competitive Conference and Fieldwork Funding (CCFF). In the run up to Giving Day on the 5 and 6 February 2020, weβve spoken to some of our students who have secured this funding to hear more about the work and experiences it contributes to.
In the latest of this Student Support Series, we heard from Samuel Ritholtz (DPhil International Development, 2018), based at the Oxford Department of International Development. Samuel was awarded CCFF funding which contributed to a preliminary field visit to Colombia, as part of his research exploring the dynamics of violence against sexual and gender minorities during the internal armed conflict in Colombia.
Can you briefly describe your research topic/question?
My research explores the dynamics of violence against sexual and gender minorities during the internal armed conflict in Colombia.
What did you enjoy the most during the trip?
I spent two weeks in Colombia on preliminary field visit where I was able to meet with academics, UN officials, and NGO leaders. I enjoyed connecting with other scholars and practitioners who work on similar topics. There’s a great network of researchers in Colombia and it was a joy to be able to meet with them in person and hear more about their work. I received invaluable feedback from them all and I can now move confidently knowing that the next phase of my research will complement their efforts as well as have an impact.
Why is fieldwork important for your work?
As my project is both theoretical and empirical, fieldwork allows me to create a bridge between these two components. Through fieldwork, I can see and experience the context of my study, as well as connect with important stakeholders. Having this empirical grounding in my fieldwork allows for richer theorization as I can use the data I gather to further flesh out and direct my thinking.
How did the CCFF fund help you achieve your research goals?
I feel very fortunate that I was able to conduct this preliminary field visit, thanks to the CCFF, and then return to Oxford for a term. After this term, I will return to Colombia for 9 months in January. This multi-visit research design allows me to be more considerate about my research. As opposed to one long stretch of fieldwork, after this first visit, I can return to Oxford, reflect on what I’ve learned, discuss this new information with my supervisors and peers, and then return to the field with clearer intentions. I believe this will improve the quality of my research and make my time in Colombia more productive.
More about Samnuel’s research and experience on his LinkedIn page.
You can find out more about Samuel’s research and experience on his LinkedIn page.
More about giving to college, and about Giving Day coming up on the 5 and 6 of February on the Giving Day event page.
