Olivia Thom, Rice University Gateway Program
Major

Social Policy Analysis, Business

Graduation Year

Spring 2026

Testimony

“I researched my theory of “implied personhood,” which refers to the embedded personhood of the fetus in state statutory law…As I intend to publish this research together with my mentors, attending this conference and being selected to do a paper presentation rather than just a poster was extremely helpful for gathering feedback. Doing a paper presentation at this conference not only helped me gain more experience presenting in an academic setting like this with a field of experts, but also let others in the field become more aware of this important topic.”

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