December 04, 2023

Library research award winner spotlight: Ella Neff

One of two winners of last year’s library research award offers this encouragement: “Everyone is required to take a Bibliographic Research in Writing class at L&C, and the Kopp Award provides a little extra push to polish that final product and make it something you’re proud of!”

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Applications for Watzek’s library research award are now open! Here’s some inspiration from one of two winners from last year, Ella Neff.

Q. What did you write about?

A. For my German History class, I wrote about consumer culture in East Germany following World War II and its contribution to the failure of the ruling socialist government. I ended on this topic after spending weeks painstakingly trying to research and compare fashion in East and West Germany—turns out there isn’t a lot out there about that subject, so I had to adapt and pursue something similar but more accessible.

Q. What did you learn from the process?

A. If your original idea isn’t panning out, there’s no shame in abandoning it and heading down a different track. Research is full of unexpected snags, so don’t be afraid to deviate from the plan when necessary.

Q. Why should students consider applying?

A. Everyone is required to take a Bibliographic Research in Writing class at L&C, and the Kopp Award provides a little extra push to polish that final product and make it something you’re proud of!

Congratulations again to our two winners from last year, Ella Neff and Dor Nadler!

Not sure if you’re eligible to apply? Find a complete list of current Bibliographic Research in Writing classes here. Full guidelines and a link to the application may be found at https://library.lclark.edu/events/kopp-awards.