Elizabeth Grace Newhall ’25

Q: Where did you study as an undergraduate? What was your major(s)?

I studied at UNC Chapel Hill. My majors were Anthropology and German Literature and Culture, and I also earned a minor in Archaeology.

Q: What do you like about UNC’s graduate program in Russian and East European Studies?

I appreciate the interdisciplinary approach that the graduate program takes, and I appreciate the confidence and support that the faculty has shown to the entire cohort.

Q: Why did you choose to specialize in this region of the globe?

I have a deep fascination with understanding and solving social issues which plague our entire world. Eastern Europe in particular has had such a different approach from the United States to many of these issues, and yet in many cases there are stark similarities. Understanding how the history and culture of a region impacts their approach to issues such as income disparity, discrimination, homelessness and access to healthcare and education is vital to addressing injustices.

Q: Do you have work and/or study experience in the region?

Nope!

Q: What are your research interests?

I am interested in studying the structures of power that keep systems of oppression thriving and how these systems are globally interconnected through imperialism, colonialism, and globalization. I am also keen on modern identity formation and how that is influenced by or a reaction against the Soviet push for cultural revolution.

Q: What would you like to do after you graduate?

I would like to work in social advocacy, but I would settle for just being employed.

Q: What are your hobbies? What do you like doing in your free time?

I love to cook, bake, and of course eat. I also like collecting pint glasses.

Q. What is your favorite visual reminder of the region and why? 

My favorite visual reminder of this region is a picture of Vladimir Putin riding a RitzTM cracker like a horse. When I was in 7th grade, I took a music class, and my music teacher tried to play us the music video of “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Taco. He accidentally clicked on a video of Putin on a RitzTM, and I have never forgotten the image since. This happy accident led to my first classroom discussion about Russian arts and culture.