RSS 1.0SUNY New Paltz Undergraduate Honors Thesis Collection
Recent Submissions
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A category theoretic bridge from classical error correction to quantum error correctionBoth the category Set of sets and functions as well as the category EVect of Euclidean vector spaces and their linear maps form monoidal categories under the Cartesian product and the tensor product, respectively. We categorically model classical computing within a full monoidal subcategory of Set, and similarly quantum computing within a full monoidal subcategory of EVect. The free functor offers a map expressing how all classical computing algorithms can be functorially mapped to a corresponding quantum algorithm. Error correction codes are included in this model using natural transformations and shown by examples, i.e Hamming codes and Toric codes, to maintain the objects and morphisms of their respective categories. Keywords: mathematics, math, computer science, linear algebra, Deustch-Josza algorithm, Toric codes, Hamming codes, Three-Bit Repetition code, Three-Qubit Repetition code, category theory, quan-tum computing, classical computing, error correction, classical error correction, quantum error correction, free functor, monoidal category, category
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How art education can address post-Covid student apathySince returning to in-person learning post-Covid, educators have observed a rise in student apathy, characterized by low motivation, disinterest, and fear of failure. This paper investigates how contemporary art education can address these challenges by providing therapeutic benefits and creating engaging, meaningful educational experiences. Artmaking offers a safe space for self-expression and self-regulation, while playful and discovery-based approaches promote risk-taking, metacognition, and student agency. Collaborative activities and thematic projects build community and connect learning to broader life experiences. By reframing art education to meet students’ psychological and emotional needs, we can foster their growth as learners and individuals in a post-pandemic world. Keywords: Art education, visual arts education, art, post-pandemic, post-Covid, student apathy, student motivation, student engagement, education, child development, social change, therapeutic art, self-expression, emotional regulation, play, playfulness, risk-taking, agency, discovery, metacognition, self-efficacy, collaboration, themes in art
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Presidential partisanship compared to migration push factors: a study of undocumented migration in the U.S.With the recent re-election of Donald Trump to the presidential office, many Americans are worried about what is to come concerning immigration policy, particularly for those who are undocumented. While immigration is a highly divisive issue in political debates, the reality of implementation indicates that both the democratic and republican parties are harsh on undocumented migration. I hypothesize that the immigration policies of the United States are reactionary in relation to undocumented migration and therefore rely more heavily on the push factors of migration from foreign countries rather than the political ideology of the president. The findings of this paper ultimately support my hypothesis that presidential ideology is not statistically significant in handling undocumented migration. However, they also conclude that push factors do not fully explain the trends in undocumented migration either. Keywords International Relations, Undocumented Migration, Political Ideology, Push Factors, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George Bush, Joe Biden
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The opioid overdose crisis in New York: a study on the impacts of policy, demographics, and treatment accessThere is a notable gap in research examining the opioid epidemic between 2016 and 2021, particularly across all counties in New York state. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the factors contributing to opioid overdose deaths, focusing on demographics, drug-related crime, healthcare events, and policy. The model reveals that opioid overdose death rates are higher across counties with larger populations of Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and multiracial populations, highlighting potential disparities in substance abuse treatment access. Additionally, the findings show that healthcare visits for opioid overdose or abuse are associated with increasing mortality rates, suggesting a lack of coordinated care across counties. However, the interaction between healthcare facility visits for opioid abuse and admissions to OASAS-certified drug treatment programs is associated with a decrease in opioid overdose deaths. This is likely due to the effectiveness of these certified programs in preventing overdose, even in the rare instances when coordinated care is employed. Surprisingly, drug misdemeanor charges are correlated to a reduction in overdose deaths, possibly reflecting the success of drug diversion programs that offer treatment over incarceration. Conversely, the legalization of recreational marijuana and the COVID-19 pandemic are strongly associated with higher overdose death rates, potentially due to shifts in drug-use patterns, increased substance availability, and disruptions in addiction treatment services. These findings emphasize the need for sustained access to healthcare and highlight critical gaps in treatment and intervention efforts across New York State. Keywords: Business Analytics, Opioid Overdose, Mixed-effects model, COVID-19 pandemic
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Sustainability: educating, communicating, and implementingTo achieve global sustainability, we must start in our own communities. Using the Global Goals for Sustainable Development and acknowledging the three pillars of sustainability - Environment, Society and Economics as a foundation, this thesis explores how integrating sustainable knowledge and skills with individual passions creates a chain reaction that supports and enriches our communities and connects sustainability actions from individuals to small towns to the entire world. When supported through interdisciplinary programming, knowledge and skills open up doors to leadership opportunities in our own communities allowing for sustainability to be integrated in even more impactful, innovative and effective ways. Over the past three years at New Paltz my education gives an example of what a non-traditional, interdisciplinary learning approach can become. Through the opportunity to be a Sustainability Ambassador, taking sustainability classes, having different leadership positions, and working to implement sustainability in many different sectors of our campus, it is clear to me that sustainability is everywhere, and it is in everything. However, it is evident that this sentiment is not widely known or shared. My thesis question centers upon how I can effectively work to help integrate sustainability across our campus? What are effective modes of communication and education about sustainability while implementing specific action projects? By developing posters dedicated to each of the seventeen Global Goals, establishing a Sustainability Zine Library, creating sustainability zines, working as a Team Leader for our Bike Friendly Campus initiative - in conjunction with my other work in leadership positions - I provide a framework and model for communicating and educating about sustainability at New Paltz to help our community become stronger, more sustainable and more resilient. Keywords: Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Community, Education, Leadership, The Global Goals, Communication, Global Connections
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The domestication syndrome: why some dogs might not get adoptedDomestication is the process of selective breeding of a species to alter the biobehavioral profile of that species. A hypothesized set of characteristics is said to be the result of domestication and is thus referred to as "the domestication syndrome." While the cause of this hypothesized "syndrome" is not understood, dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are said to exhibit all the traits resulting from the domestication syndrome. To test if the number of characteristics described in the domestication syndrome a dog possesses correlates with time spent in a dog shelter, data was attempted to be collected from various dog shelters in the Hudson Valley Region, NY. The lack of response, probably due to overcrowding in shelters and overworked staff, resulted in little data collected to test the original hypothesis. Rather, the implications of this research were examined. Life in dog shelters is stressful for the animal, and enrichment may lessen this stress, thus providing positive behaviors that potential adopters are looking for. The dogs' comfort in a shelter should be a priority, and enrichment activities can improve the welfare of these animals. Keywords: Biology, domestication, Canis lupus familiaris, shelter, adoption, breeding, reform, enrichment Author's Note: Originally, the length and content of the document were going to resemble a scientific journal, after the lack of data collection was possible, implications of the original study question were explored, elongating the document and altering the content.
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Studying military narrative identities: influence of military experiences on narrative identitiesThe purpose of this study was to conduct an exploratory analysis of how military identities are developed via lived experiences within the military. Participants (N=8) included current and past military members with varying jobs and ranks from the United States Air Force. Semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely via Zoom, allowing participants to describe their experiences with military life. Reflexive thematic analysis (TA) was used to identify five emergent themes including: Poor Leadership, Rank, Teamwork and Mutual Support, Influential Mentors and Challenges Being a Woman. The study highlights how military life influences autonomy, rank progression, and resilience, while also promoting community through mentorship, support networks, and teamwork within the military community. Keywords: Psychology, Narrative Identities, Military, Military Narrative Identities, Identities, Qualitative, Qualitative Research
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Beyond language proficiency: addressing the emotional and psychological needs of English language learners in New York StateEnglish Language Learners, or ELLs, have become a growing population in the United States over the past couple of decades. In states like New York, where the number of immigrants accounts for a significant percentage of the population and is increasing every year, local governments and school districts are faced with the responsibility of adjusting policies and perspectives as the cultures of their neighborhoods change. ELLs are a growing community that requires support beyond what is available in a general education classroom. The primary concern for educators regarding ELL students is their academic success and, more specifically, their proficiency in the English language. Although English proficiency is an important goal for ELLs, their emotional needs and mental health are often not given the same importance or even taken into consideration. This paper offers a unique perspective into the psychological implications of being an ELL and aims to highlight the real experiences of students in ELL programs in New York State. The research for this paper was conducted through an analysis of various academic papers and journal articles focusing on ELL programs, language anxiety, and case studies pertaining to the psychology of ELLs, as well as interviews with teachers in ELL programs and general education teachers with experience working with ELLs. The causes of mental health issues for ELL students explored in this paper include previous trauma, language anxiety, and cultural assimilation. The emotional unwellness of ELLs discussed in this paper impacts many aspects of their lives, including academic performance, home life, personal identity, cognitive and social development, and future success. There is a disproportionate connection between ELL students and psychological issues, putting these students at an even greater disadvantage. These findings indicate that educators of ELLs must be more aware of their students’ backgrounds and must be well-prepared to support their students not only academically but emotionally and socially as well. Teachers must carefully and constructively consider their pedagogical approaches to educating ELL students and create classroom environments that are supportive, engaging, encouraging, understanding, and respectful of all students. Keywords: early childhood and childhood education, English Language Learners (ELLs), New York State Education Department, English language immersion
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The aging woman in the 21st century: a personal journey into adulthood through culture and expectationsThis collection of poems explores the coming of age experience as a woman as well as growing older in a way that indelibly links the interior experience of aging with cultural notions of generationality and age. Aging is often identified through the changing of cultural ideas and icons and the ways in which, over time, we start to notice the recurring themes and messaging in culture. As we age, most of us reject these new objects of desire. We are no longer fooled by them since we have seen them in many other fashions before. These narratives examine expectations versus reality of life and the ways in which our expectations and desires change with the passage of time. I often change the voice within my poems to make my meditations both personal and fictional, but they all stem from the same experience of being a woman in the 21st century and changing in the public eye. Keywords: Early Childhood & Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Poetry, Poems, Women, Perception, Culture, Social Media, Aging, Love, Expectations
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Exploring the boundaries: performance art as a pedagogical tool in K-12 educationThroughout history, the world of visual arts consistently changes and expands in response to current events. As the spectrum of the arts changes, curriculum must change alongside them to encourage and foster student understanding of contemporary art and its cultural significance. Performance art, a genre of contemporary art, consists of artworks that involve action, demonstrations, and/or live exhibitions. While the concept of performance art has been used by artists for ages, the ways performers interact with audiences and the array of methods that may count as performance have advanced the genre greatly in modern times. Introducing performance art in a K-12 educational setting will provide an opportunity for educators to convey themes of collaboration, innovation, spontaneity, and creative expression. Contemporary art thrives on the idea that there are limitless modalities and spaces in which to display art. Encouraging students’ understanding of performance art is key in helping them embrace these ideals and expand their individual perceptions of what may count as art, especially as performance serves as a vehicle for art that doesn’t require proficiency in fine art skills. This paper examines the ways in which performance art can be realistically introduced into class curricula. Incorporating evidence from contemporary art research, educational policies, and personal correspondence, this study exhibits that performance art is an accessible and inclusive pedagogical tool in K-12 education. Key Words: Art education; performance art; contemporary art; educational pedagogy; curriculum; mentor artist
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Violence and power in Ukraine and Russia: how geography, history, and identity define the conflictRussia's actions against Ukraine in 2014 and 2022 are intricately linked to Russian (triune) identity, historical and narratives, as well as to its rejection of Ukrainian sovereignty and borders. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Russian state actors and population believed the country remained a great power, like its main rival, the U.S.A., due to its intrinsic quality within the Russian national identity. Without great power status, Russia cannot legitimate its existence or actions domestically and internationally. The domination of Ukraine is required by Russia’s view of its ethnic identity and international status. The loss of Ukraine to Western powers like the U.S. illustrates a fissure within the Russian identity and state. By looking at the actions and rhetoric of Russian institutions and elites, we can see the war against Ukraine as rooted in the great power narratives, ontological security, as well as imperial irredentist claims. Keywords: history, geography, political science, Ukraine, Russia, conflict, identity.
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Carotid dissection: a stroke of insight into safer work conditionsA 51-year-old man was admitted to hospital on the basis of dysarthria, left-side facial paralysis, pharyngitis, proximal loss of vision, left-arm paresis, and asphyxiation. Through various neurological testing, the patient was confirmed to have an ischemic stroke caused by an arterial dissection with a subintimal hematoma in the area of the carotid artery (carotid dissection). The patient was released from the hospital 3 days after being admitted with post-incident treatment instructions to ensure recovery. In this case study, detailed clinical assessments, radiological findings, and therapeutic interventions will be reviewed to provide a holistic understanding of the patient's journey from injury to recovery. Through a meticulous analysis of real-life patient care, this thesis aims to help highlight the early symptoms of strokes and their impact on individuals, particularly those in physically demanding and dangerous work conditions, such as the patient, who worked as a roofer. By shedding light on the unique challenges faced by individuals in such occupations, I seek to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in stroke medicine. Ultimately, the goal is to improve clinical management and outcomes for individuals affected by carotid dissection while advocating for safer working conditions for those at risk. Keywords: Psychology, Psychobiology, Evolutionary Studies, Honors, Neuroscience, Neurology, Carotid Dissection, Stroke, Medicine, Work Conditions
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Fear and masculinity in the private expressions of soldiers during World War OneWorld War One catapulted the world into modern warfare. Hand-to-hand combat was replaced by trenches, heavy artillery fire, and chemical warfare. Consequently, soldiers entered combat unprepared and left experiencing combat-induced traumas including shell shock. These traumas caused men to physically and emotionally break down which was a stark contrast to the brave and stoic male gender ideal at the time. Most historians argue that shifts in gender ideals didn’t occur until after the First World War. However, by analyzing the personal expressions of male soldiers at the front it is apparent that gender ideals were shifting in the trenches during the war.
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Assessing the accuracy of telluric correctionsObserving transiting exoplanets with ground-based telescopes and high-resolution spectrographs enables the resolution of individual absorption lines in the exoplanet transmission spectra. However, observing from the ground inherently introduces telluric contamination: spectral contamination from absorption due to molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere. We take high-resolution observations of a transiting exoplanet around a bright A-type star as a case study and use synthetic telluric molecfit models to remove contamination from water and oxygen molecules in Earth’s atmosphere. The quality of the telluric corrections was statistically assessed for several different telluric regions based on absorption depth and molecular absorption species. We find that corrections for shallow telluric lines are more robust than deeper telluric lines, though both depend similarly on airmass. Corrections for different molecular bands varied by region. Some regions demonstrate a higher dependency on airmass, potentially due to the wavelength, depth, or quantity of telluric lines. Finally, we determine that the most accurate corrections are performed at observations with airmass under 1.07 corresponding to a zenith angle of approximately 20.84 degrees. Whilst this is a somewhat limited airmass range, these results highlight the need for improving telluric models for future searches of water and oxygen features in Earth-like exoplanet transmission spectra with 30m-class telescopes. These results may assist in optimizing observations for retrieving and preserving more data in an exoplanet transmission spectrum, especially when absorption features from the same molecules–and potential biosignatures–in Earth-like atmospheres fall in these highly contaminated regions. Key Words: astronomy; astrobiology; exoplanets; atmosphere; spectroscopy; telluric contamination; telluric corrections
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Kensington’s drug and opioid epidemic: evaluating influences, policy, and community based responsesThis thesis explores the complex landscape of Kensington's opioid crisis, examining its history, and governmental aspects along with community-led initiatives. By examining the socioeconomic environment of the neighborhood, the influence of urban planning, and the significant effects on education, child welfare, health, and mental well-being, this study highlights the critical importance of holistic strategies in tackling the crisis. Using insights from the community and input from local organizations and law enforcement, this research promotes cooperative, evidence-based policies that focus on equity in health and social equality. This thesis contributes to drug policy, health equity, and psychological research by synthesizing important findings and providing insights on future research directions. It highlights the importance of collective action in addressing the opioid epidemic in Kensington and beyond.
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Evolution and critiques of terrain mapping techniques in the upper Esopus watershed concerning turbidity reduction in the NYC water supplyThe most recent Pleistocene glaciation ended approximately 12,000 years ago, a cooling interval that deposited lacustrine clay and glacial till throughout the Catskill watershed. These fine-grained glacial legacy sediments erode during heavy rainfall events and create turbidity in the streams. The streams of the Catskills feed into various reservoirs that provide clean drinking water to millions of residents in New York City. Turbidity reduction in the Catskills is a NYS-funded effort to ensure the cleanliness of the New York City Water Supply. Since the early 2000s, the New York Cite Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) has worked collaboratively with the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program (AWSMP), contracted firms, and municipalities to uphold its initiative to reduce turbidity in the Ashokan Watershed. This analysis of stream management explores the evolution of terrain mapping techniques used in the Stony Clove watershed and Broadstreet Hollow Creek watershed, both tributaries to the Upper Esopus Creek. The survey, monitoring, and restoration project phases of stream management all play a crucial role in the success in turbidity reduction. Over the past two decades, these approaches to stream management have evolved as new innovations have been made in the industry. Even so, there are still mentionable critiques of stream management that can be applied to future stream assessments, monitoring studies, and restoration projects.
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An Iŋgliš Orþografē RēformWriting is our most effective method of communication, yet English has many complex and contradictory rules for doing so. This thesis project aims to make a case for standardizing English spellings for words based on current and common pronunciations for words by using letters from the extended Latin script. “An Iŋgliš Orþografē Rēform,” concerns a hypothetical restructuring of the way English is written. The project uses a combination of print medias, including posters, packets, and 3D-printed magnets to advocate for the addition of the letters “Ð, Ŋ, Þ” and the adoption of the “caron” and “macron” diacritic marks to help standardize English spelling. KEYWORDS: Graphic Design, Spelling Reform, Typography, Orthography, Phonetics, IPA, 3D-Printing, Unicode, SoundSpel, English, Language, Writing
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From saga to tragedy: exploring the original sources of Hamlet and MacbethAlmost all of Shakespeare’s plays are based on prior sources, some contemporary to him and some not. By looking at the prior sources for two of Shakespeare’s famous tragedies, Hamlet and Macbeth, we can better appreciate and understand Shakespeare’s work. This paper begins with a discussion of whether Shakespeare exists as an adaptor, a plagiarist, or an appropriator. Next, I explore how Shakespeare’s changes to the endings, protagonists, and female characters change the original texts from historic sagas to theatrical tragedies. Keywords: English, History, Shakespeare, Hamlet, Macbeth, Raphael Holinshed, Saxo Grammaticus, The Danish History, Amleth, The Hystorie of Hamblet, Hamblet
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Emotional labor performed by nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting shifts in workplace perceptionIn the fast-paced and emotionally demanding environment of a pandemic, nurses were confronted with various challenges that require effective coping strategies. This qualitative research study explores the intricate interplay between stress, trauma, emotional labor, and the mechanisms employed to cope with these multifaceted experiences. Through in-depth interviews, the study delves into the concept of communication resilience and its role in mitigating the effects of stress. It examines how solidarity and support systems can foster a sense of collective strength, enabling individuals to navigate stressful situations more effectively. Furthermore, the research sheds light on the profound impact of emotional labor and its potential to contribute to traumatic experiences. It investigates the significance of support networks and their capacity to provide a sense of security and understanding, facilitating the healing process and promoting emotional well-being. This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of human experience and the diverse strategies employed to navigate life's challenges. The findings have implications for mental health professionals, workplaces, and communities, offering insights into fostering resilience, nurturing supportive environments, and empowering individuals to thrive in the face of adversity. Keywords: Communication Studies, Communication resilience, emotional labor, COVID-19, nursing, coping, stress, female dominated industry
