Research Spotlight: Mia Gleason

Mia Gleason, an international relations major and Beginning Undergraduate Research Summer Training (BURST) recipient, is working on political science research under Andrew Tirrell, JD, PhD, associate professor of political science and international relations and director of the Master of Arts in International Relations program. Gleason's research studies co-management in New England fisheries. 

At the beginning of the summer the two flew into Boston to conduct six to eight interviews with people who have shaped the commercial fishing industry or have experienced its impacts first hand. For the most part, the interviewees consisted of civil society leaders or federal officials, but one interview especially stuck out to Gleason. She talked with the Gloucester Fishermen's Wives Association and the past mayor of Gloucester about the community surrounding commercial fishing and the firsthand struggles that come with the occupation.

Since the 1970s, commercial fishing has become a less viable job to make a living due to numerous restrictions and regulations. These regulations include quotas on the amount and type of fish, area closures and difficult-to-obtain permits. The former mayor discussed with Gleason how she wanted the fishermen to feel seen. The fishermen of Gloucester are responsible for fish that feed people across the United States, yet they are struggling to make a living wage. 

The interviews with officials focused more on the long-term vs short-term implications of commercial fishing. Those focused on the long-term implications brought up concerns of the environmental effects while those more troubled with the short-term were worried about making a living wage and providing for their families.

After returning to San Diego, Gleason’s research has focused on reading related articles, taking notes and reflecting on her past interviews. The most unexpected part of her research was that some of the interviewees were hesitant to speak openly. Some were reluctant to discuss their roles especially because they are dealing with the effects of the funding and staff cuts. They were nervous to speak out against different administrations that have impacted commercial fishing. 

Throughout her time in New England, Gleason said that a skill she developed was coming up with questions on the spot to ask her interviewees. She had to think decisively about what is the most relevant question and how to phrase them so they flowed naturally with the conversation.

Gleason’s advice for students interested in research is that there are a lot of research opportunities at USD, but you have to put the effort in to search them out. She took her time when talking to different professors to find the project that most interested her and allowed her to combine multiple interests into one research project.