Kayla Wolf – Political Science and International Relations
The USC Dornsife Ph.D. Academy supports Dornsife Ph.D. students to help them thrive during each year of their Ph.D. program. The Ph.D. Academy wants to highlight the amazing students that are a part of our unique community.
This special spotlight is on Kayla Wolf, a graduating Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Political Science and International Relations. We will have the pleasure of seeing Kayla walk at the 2025 Ph.D. Hooding Ceremony on May 14, 2025.
Thesis title: Four More Years (of Education): College, Outgroup Empathy, and Changes in Ideology
What is your dissertation about?
My dissertation project looks at how college education is an important agent of socialization that impacts students’ ideology and empathy toward marginalized outgroups.
Are there any mentors, advisors, or peers who have had a significant impact on your PhD experience?
I am so grateful for all the women in my cohort. We bonded during our very first class and have remained close over the past six years celebrating milestones, defenses, and even a wedding! Shoutout to Lobster and Beer in Palms for 6 years of happy hours after every big occasion.
What are your plans and aspirations for the future, now that you’ve completed your PhD?
I’ll be starting as an Assistant Teaching Professor at Northeastern University in the fall.
Congratulations, Kayla! We are immensely proud of your success and accomplishments! Fight on!