The Master of Arts in Museology requires that students complete a thesis. They may choose either a research or project thesis. We’re talking with some of our second-year students who are deep in thesis work right now to get their perspectives on what they are learning. Museology Communications and Marketing Assistant Xavier Lucas-Cooper (’27) spoke with Grayson McKinnerney (’26) about his thesis work.
How did you arrive at your thesis topic and how much did it change over time?
Before settling on the experiences of trans and/or nonbinary museum staff and volunteers, I had thrown around a few topics. I have educational and professional interests in collections databases and Japanese Art, so I considered a couple of other ideas centering there. However, it felt very natural to return to my roots in Queer Studies. Additionally, I have seen first-hand that places that celebrate trans and queer attendees can still treat their staff with far less care. Once I settled on that idea, it didn’t shift too much, except for a bit of indecision on my recruitment areas.
How has doing a research thesis changed your views on the museum field?
One main thing that came up in my research is how little focus is placed on marginalized staff and volunteers when investigating feelings of inclusion. There is a growing body of attendee focused research, but staff are often left behind. Additionally, it has been fun to see how many trans folks there are in the field just in Seattle. I’m looking forward to recruiting in other areas.
What has kept you motivated when things got tough?
A few things! I am very passionate about my topic and also just love interviewing and meeting new people, so that has been helping me through the harder bits. Also, the support from my friends and partner cannot be understated. One great thing about thesis is that your whole cohort is doing it, after all, it’s very required, so you really band together. My partner also has been the very best patient zero for all of my interview guides and recruitment surveys.
What fear did you outgrow?
When it comes to fears I’ve outgrown, it’s really just learning that communication is always best. I get really worried about emailing or reaching out to people when it’s been a long time, but people generally just want to know how you’re doing. Don’t be ashamed to just email your committee member a question!
How do you think you’ll utilize the knowledge gained from your thesis after you graduate?
I have actually been getting more into the People and Cultures/Human Resources aspect of the field. I am still a big collections management-head, but it has been very interesting to learn more about the people management side. I think that competency will be useful for post-graduation. I also just think that my research better positions me to act as an advocate not only for myself but for other trans folks in the field.
What version of yourself started your research, and what version of yourself are you now?
The current me is tired and stressed, haha, but I’m proud of my work so far. I’m looking forward to all of the interviews I’ve yet to do. I’ve been learning so much about research and also self-paced academic work. I feel that I’ve become more confident in not only my intelligence but my capacity for compassion.