Beyond Impact: Research as a Path of Personal Growth and Fulfillment
At our latest NURCE meeting, we stepped beyond projects and publications to reflect on the personal journeys that shape our research. It was a space for curiosity and introspection—where we exchanged evolving perspectives on academia, the challenges of research, and the deeper motivations behind our work.
Philip Schröder: Balancing Qualitative Richness with Quantitative Rigor
My research into IT and governance across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan has shown me the limitations of relying solely on qualitative methods. While narratives provide deep insight, I often find myself seeking more measurable, definitive outcomes. This desire resonates with Abai Kunanbaev's Word Twelve, which emphasizes continuous learning and self-discipline.
Motivated by this, I am adopting a more integrated methodology—maintaining the depth of qualitative narratives while incorporating quantitative analysis to strengthen conclusions. For instance, in a recent project evaluating school nutrition programs, we not only gathered feedback from relieved parents but also quantified nutritional outcomes for students. The result was a more holistic picture: stories backed by data.
This evolution in my approach reflects Abai's philosophy—knowledge should be dynamic, rigorous, and constantly evolving. By combining qualitative nuance with quantitative precision, I aim to better capture the complexities of governance in a digital era.
Galiya Saktaganova: Navigating the Rigors of Academic Inquiry
As a Research Assistant in the Public Policy program, I’m learning to navigate the intricacies of academic life. Inspired by Abai’s Word Twelve, I see each day as an opportunity to grow—not only in knowledge but in character.
Securing ethical approval for my projects has introduced me to the foundations of responsible research: discipline, patience, and integrity. This experience has been transformative, reinforcing the importance of rigor and ethical responsibility in academic inquiry. Like Abai, I believe true learning is not static—it demands perseverance and ongoing refinement.
Nazira: Laying the Groundwork for a PhD Journey
As a second-year student in Political Science and International Relations, I’m already setting my sights on a PhD. Abai’s Word Twelve reminds me that dreams must be matched with discipline—and that preparation begins now.
That’s why gaining hands-on research experience is my top priority. Engaging deeply in research at this stage is not just about building a résumé—it's about laying a solid foundation for future academic pursuits. Our recent NURCE meetings were more than research discussions; they became moments of self-reflection, where we shared both our aspirations and our doubts.
Each of us is on a unique path, but we're united by a common drive: to learn, to question, and to make meaningful contributions. This shared commitment embodies Abai’s call for self-discipline and purposeful growth.
Dr. Jessica Neafie: Navigating New Research Frontiers in Kazakhstan
Relocating my research to Kazakhstan during the COVID-19 pandemic transformed how I approach global issues—moving from abstract models to grounded, localized perspectives. Inspired by Abai’s call for continuous learning, I’ve found a renewed sense of purpose in my work.
One ongoing project examines local views on Chinese investment in Kazakhstan. While economic benefits are acknowledged, there is hesitancy toward direct business ties, rooted in broader cultural and security concerns. In parallel, my environmental research at the School of Mining and Geosciences explores the impacts of oil pollution and methane emissions. We've found that many so-called “local” oil companies are essentially foreign-run, raising serious questions about regulatory oversight and global accountability.
My focus now lies in understanding the real-world consequences of policy gaps—and the grassroots efforts to address them. Abai reminds us that research is not just about collecting data, but about striving for meaningful change. That’s the impact I hope to make.
At our latest NURCE meeting, we stepped beyond projects and publications to reflect on the personal journeys that shape our research. It was a space for curiosity and introspection—where we exchanged evolving perspectives on academia, the challenges of research, and the deeper motivations behind our work.
Philip Schröder: Balancing Qualitative Richness with Quantitative Rigor
My research into IT and governance across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan has shown me the limitations of relying solely on qualitative methods. While narratives provide deep insight, I often find myself seeking more measurable, definitive outcomes. This desire resonates with Abai Kunanbaev's Word Twelve, which emphasizes continuous learning and self-discipline.
Motivated by this, I am adopting a more integrated methodology—maintaining the depth of qualitative narratives while incorporating quantitative analysis to strengthen conclusions. For instance, in a recent project evaluating school nutrition programs, we not only gathered feedback from relieved parents but also quantified nutritional outcomes for students. The result was a more holistic picture: stories backed by data.
This evolution in my approach reflects Abai's philosophy—knowledge should be dynamic, rigorous, and constantly evolving. By combining qualitative nuance with quantitative precision, I aim to better capture the complexities of governance in a digital era.
Galiya Saktaganova: Navigating the Rigors of Academic Inquiry
As a Research Assistant in the Public Policy program, I’m learning to navigate the intricacies of academic life. Inspired by Abai’s Word Twelve, I see each day as an opportunity to grow—not only in knowledge but in character.
Securing ethical approval for my projects has introduced me to the foundations of responsible research: discipline, patience, and integrity. This experience has been transformative, reinforcing the importance of rigor and ethical responsibility in academic inquiry. Like Abai, I believe true learning is not static—it demands perseverance and ongoing refinement.
Nazira: Laying the Groundwork for a PhD Journey
As a second-year student in Political Science and International Relations, I’m already setting my sights on a PhD. Abai’s Word Twelve reminds me that dreams must be matched with discipline—and that preparation begins now.
That’s why gaining hands-on research experience is my top priority. Engaging deeply in research at this stage is not just about building a résumé—it's about laying a solid foundation for future academic pursuits. Our recent NURCE meetings were more than research discussions; they became moments of self-reflection, where we shared both our aspirations and our doubts.
Each of us is on a unique path, but we're united by a common drive: to learn, to question, and to make meaningful contributions. This shared commitment embodies Abai’s call for self-discipline and purposeful growth.
Dr. Jessica Neafie: Navigating New Research Frontiers in Kazakhstan
Relocating my research to Kazakhstan during the COVID-19 pandemic transformed how I approach global issues—moving from abstract models to grounded, localized perspectives. Inspired by Abai’s call for continuous learning, I’ve found a renewed sense of purpose in my work.
One ongoing project examines local views on Chinese investment in Kazakhstan. While economic benefits are acknowledged, there is hesitancy toward direct business ties, rooted in broader cultural and security concerns. In parallel, my environmental research at the School of Mining and Geosciences explores the impacts of oil pollution and methane emissions. We've found that many so-called “local” oil companies are essentially foreign-run, raising serious questions about regulatory oversight and global accountability.
My focus now lies in understanding the real-world consequences of policy gaps—and the grassroots efforts to address them. Abai reminds us that research is not just about collecting data, but about striving for meaningful change. That’s the impact I hope to make.
