Simal B. Gerot

Simal B. Gerot

Ph.D. Candidate in Political Science and CLAS Dissertation Writing Fellow at the University of Iowa

MPSA Conference Presentation – Chicago, April 2025

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I recently presented my paper, “News, on Repeat: Examining the Relationship Between Habitual Media Use and Affective Polarization”, at the Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA) Conference in Chicago.

This research investigates how entrenched political media habits contribute to affective polarization, amplifying partisan divides in the U.S. The conference provided a great opportunity to share my work and engage with scholars working on media, partisanship, and political behavior.

Preliminary findings show that stronger habitual political news consumption is associated with greater emotional distance from political opponents, suggesting that everyday media habits may reinforce affective polarization.

Thank you to everyone who attended and offered valuable feedback as I continue to develop this research further.

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CLAS Dissertation Writing Fellowship – University of Iowa

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I’m excited to share that I was selected as one of ten recipients of the CLAS Dissertation Writing Fellowship for Summer and Fall 2025, awarded by the University of Iowa’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. This fellowship provides dedicated time and support for completing my dissertation.

Post-Comprehensive Research Fellowship – University of Iowa

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I am honored to have received the Post-Comprehensive Research Fellowship from the University of Iowa’s Graduate College. This competitive fellowship provides support for doctoral students to focus on their research following the successful completion of comprehensive examinations.