05/19/2026
The School of Global Integrative Studies proudly congratulates Carsyn Loncke on the successful defense of her senior thesis in March! 🎉
A double major in Global Studies and Political Science, with a minor in Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, Carsyn explored questions surrounding immigration, public perception, and economic impact in Nebraska through her thesis, “Perceptions Versus Reality: Misunderstandings of Immigrants in Nebraska: How do Rural Nebraskans Perceive Immigrants’ Economic Role in the State of Nebraska?.”
Supported by the Forsythe Family Program on Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs Undergraduate Research Fellowship, Carsyn’s research examined how rural Nebraskans perceive immigrants and immigration and compared those perceptions with empirical evidence about immigrants’ demographic and economic contributions to the state. Her work highlights the critical role immigrants play in Nebraska’s workforce and economy, particularly in industries experiencing ongoing labor shortages.
Throughout her undergraduate career, Carsyn presented her findings at the 2026 Forced Migration and Resettlement Community Partnership Symposium and the 2026 University of Nebraska–Lincoln Student Research Days, contributing to important conversations surrounding immigration and rural communities in Nebraska.
Throughout the project, Carsyn worked closely with faculty mentors Dr. Emira Ibrahimpašić and Dr. Julia Reilly, whose expertise, encouragement, and mentorship helped shape and strengthen her research.
We are also thrilled to celebrate Carsyn as she prepares to begin the next chapter of her academic journey at Yale Law School this fall. ⚖️
Congratulations, Carsyn, on this outstanding achievement and for contributing meaningful research that deepens conversations around immigration, human rights, and community perspectives in Nebraska.
