Matthew Meier

As a doctoral student under the mentorship of Marie-Louise Mares, I am interested in the ways that media experiences shape identity and emotions, with a focus on gender identity and the formation of toxic masculinity ideology in adolescents. Related to this, I want to better understand how media experiences can promote positive or constructive emotions such as empathy, inclusivity, vulnerability, and resilience. Prior to attending UW-Madison, I worked in the entertainment industry in a variety of roles before eventually returning to the USC School of Cinematic Arts, from where I also received my B.A., to work as a full-time staff member while earning my M.A. in Cinema & Media Studies.