Hello everyone.

For those who don't know me, I'm Brendan Frizzell, a second-year sociology PhD student at the University of Southern California. Before starting my PhD, I attended Rice University, where I majored in Sociology and Latin American Studies with a Certificate in Civic Leadership. I am hoping to attend the Latin American Studies Association conference taking place in Paris, France at the end of May to present an ongoing research project I’m working on entitled “The U.S. Dollar as a Symbol of Ongoing Latin American Imperialism.” My general research interests include the Americas; family, gender, and sexuality; economic and political sociology; and social demography.

As a current graduate student and an aspiring professor, a crucial component of my academic journey is attending regional, national, and international academic conferences to present my in-progress research projects, receive feedback and career advice, and network with established faculty and scholars. Given USC's precarious funding situation, I created this GoFundMe to ask for community support from family, friends, connections, and those who value high-level research and academic inquiry. My department is able to provide some funding, but this will not cover the entire cost of the trip, which includes airfare, housing, food and groceries, public transportation, and more.

I appreciate you taking the time to learn/read about me and my research. Thank you in advance for donating, sharing, and supporting. If you’re interested in reading my abstract, please feel free to reach out.