Levi Mitzen

Describe your dissertation, thesis, or capstone (if you completed one):

My thesis is a qualitative content analysis of virtual media produced and shared by two notable right-wing organizations: Prager University and the Proud Boys. By analyzing this communication, I explore the nature of both organizations, their discourse/rhetoric, their connection to larger socio-political phenomena, and underscore how this reflects elements of the status quo.

How did you choose your specific area of study?

During my undergraduate, I helped organize efforts to document and remove far-right/fascist propaganda on and around campus. I also had friends who were injured in the Charlottesville terrorist attack of 2017. These factors gave me a very personal understanding of the importance of not just studying, but actively opposing movements hostile to social justice and democratic values. The relevance of this work has only continued to grow with events like the 2021 US Capitol attack.

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

In terms of academics, it equipped me with the fundamental tools needed to conduct the work I have a passion for: an in-depth, critical understanding of methodology and theory. In more general terms, it brought me into contact with colleagues and professors who have taught me more than I can list here.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

I would have to say my first publication, "Art in Action: An Analysis of Political Graffiti in Washington DC." Beyond being published in an international journal, this paper went on to receive the International Sociological Association's RC25 Award for Academic Excellence.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

More than I can mention here. My thesis committee members, whose patience and counsel pushed me to excel: Drs. Mark Jacobs, John Dale, and Ben Manski. Dr. Dale especially, as he served as a mentor since my undergraduate; I doubt I will ever be able to adequately express my appreciation for this. Dr. Storelli also certainly deserves recognition here, as she not only helped me work out the methodology for my thesis (no easy feat) but gave me my first teaching opportunity as a graduate teaching assistant.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

Trust in what interests you and let it guide you; the mundane or seemingly unremarkable have always been wonderful sources of inspiration for my work. For more practical advice, if you have an idea of what you want to do for your thesis/dissertation: try to orient your class work around it. You would be surprised how much preliminary research you can do without realizing it.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

I am currently applying to doctoral programs for the fall, looking to further develop my thesis through my dissertation. After that I hope to eventually become a professor. And, of course, to remain dedicated to the cause of social justice in all that I do!