Claire Lawrence is a Research and Theory masters student in the School of Journalism and Media. Born and raised in Texas, she received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Journalism from St. Edward's University where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the university's student-led newspaper, Hilltop Views. Her undergraduate research mainly focused on media effects, using communication and rhetorical theory to analyze public perception of journalism and news. As a graduate student, she wishes to look more into the cultural significance news coverage has on society and the methods in which the media presents social justice and advocacy. She is also interested in analyzing how public perception of the media varies depending on generational and cultural differences. Before starting graduate school, Claire was a journalist for seven years. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, listening to music.