Student Profiles: Kara LaFleur
My
research focuses on how discourse may be used within society to empower or
oppress individuals, advocate for self or others, and bring about larger social
change. Much of my research surrounds the use of language on the
Internet, frequently compared to the printing press in its infancy for its
potential to bring unrestricted, un-moderated ‘voice’ to the masses. My
current research projects include an exploration of the on-line representation
of women diagnosed with breast cancer and their use of the Internet to self-advocate,
seek on-line communal support, and engage in cathartic writing practices. I
am also researching the role of ethos within professional business writing
and, more specifically, grant and proposal writing in the nonprofit sector.