Isis Malcolm

Why FSU?

I chose Florida State University because of the opportunity to grow as a researcher, work with faculty who share my interests, and explore research questions that I am genuinely passionate about.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

My interest in graduate school grew from my desire to understand people, especially when it comes to things that affect their everyday lives. I wanted to go beyond simply learning about information and explore how research can help address real-world problems and make a difference in people’s lives.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My research interests center on information behavior, health information seeking, and the experiences of underserved communities. I am particularly interested in how marginalized individuals find and access sexual and reproductive health information. I want to better understand where individuals turn for information, the barriers they experience. I believe everyone deserves access to reliable information, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Who has been influential in your graduate journey?

My advisor, Dr. Margaret Sullivan, has been one of the most influential people in my graduate journey. Her guidance and encouragement have helped me become more confident in my ideas, think more critically about research, and understand that becoming a researcher is a continuous learning process. I have also been inspired by the people and communities whose experiences remind me why the work I do matters.

Career aspirations

My long-term goal is to become a professor and researcher at a research-intensive university (R1). I hope to continue conducting research, teaching, mentoring students, and contributing to conversations about information access and health information equity. Most importantly, I want my work to have an impact beyond academia and contribute to improving how underserved communities access and use information.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

My biggest advice would be to give yourself room to learn and grow. You do not have to have everything figured out when you start, and it is okay for your interests and goals to change along the way. Find people who support you, ask questions, take advantage of opportunities, and remember that you belong in the spaces you are working so hard to enter.

Accomplishments during graduate career

Madge Hutchinson Scholarship, Latin American and Caribbean Scholarship (LAC), and Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T) Scholarship Award

Hobbies outside academics

I love finding little ways to be creative, relax, and enjoy life outside of research, such as cooking and dancing.