Student Spotlight: Connor Wilcox
Connor Wilcox is a doctoral student in the College of Communication and Information. Originally from the Chicago area, Connor earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Eastern Illinois University before coming to Kent State. His research explores the nuanced ways people communicatively construct knowledge and negotiate identities within subcultures. Carefully and attentively studying subcultural social interactions and patterns reveal rich, hidden realms of meanings. Understanding subcultures and identity work is necessary for understanding ourselves and, ultimately, each other.
This semester, Connor is working on a research project with advisor Dr. Cristin Compton on the identity negotiation processes of musicians who create vaporwave, which is a sensational, surrealistic music genre and visual style. Not only has Connor made strides in researching this topic, but he also had the opportunity to present his findings at the Organization for the Study of Communication, Language and Gender this past October. In addition, Connor continues to collaborate and co-author scholarship with his master’s thesis advisor, Dr. S. M. Walus.
After completing his Ph.D., Connor seeks to pursue a full-time faculty position at a college or university. His desire to stay in academia is motivated by a love of learning, teaching, collaborating and mentoring. Connor feels that teaching has been his most rewarding job yet. While Connor strives to remain in academia, he acknowledges that faculty here at Kent State have been his favorite part of the university due to the patience, knowledge and kindness that they have demonstrated throughout his journey.
When not hitting the books or typing away on a paper, Connor enjoys collecting records, cassette tapes, guitars and effects pedals. He also serves as head of promotion for independent all-vinyl record label, Cavetone Records.
For more Kent State University student and alumni spotlights, follow the Division of Graduate Studies on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit our website for information on graduate student services, awards and virtual events