Summer at the Osman Lab - Xuanjia’s reflections

This summer in the Osman Lab taught me how much a research question can evolve through iteration. I started with a broad question about equity in 311 reporting, and through repeated analysis, discussion, and revision, the project gradually developed into a dynamic feedback framework examining how different government responses shape residents’ future reporting behavior. Along the way, I also became much more careful about identifying which findings truly support the central argument and how to communicate the research story clearly.

I am especially grateful to Professor Osman for his guidance and encouragement throughout this process. Whenever I brought him a question or a new idea, he would respond thoughtfully and help me see how it could strengthen the project. His feedback played an important role in shaping both the analysis and the overall direction of the work.

I am also very grateful to Shuojia for being such a supportive mentor. She was always willing to discuss ideas with me, help me work through problems, and encourage me throughout the summer. Having someone I could turn to so easily for research discussions made a huge difference in my experience.

Beyond the project itself, I was deeply impressed by the culture of the lab. People genuinely enjoy spending time together — from hiking and karaoke to sharing pizza, watching the World Cup, trying different restaurants, and even going out for ice cream with Professor Osman. Just as importantly, people genuinely celebrate one another’s good news. Whether someone had a paper accepted, reached an important personal milestone, or simply had something worth celebrating, the whole group would be happy for them. That sense of mutual support made the lab feel especially warm and close-knit.

At the same time, the lab is remarkably efficient when it comes to work. Communication is direct and responsive, and questions often turn quickly into useful discussions and concrete next steps. I found myself discussing my research with almost everyone in the group at some point, and people were always willing to listen, share their perspectives, and offer thoughtful suggestions. I really appreciated being part of a group that could be both so relaxed and fun socially, and so focused and effective academically.