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I’ve met a graduate student who needs our help. Here’s her email:

“Thank you for speaking with me yesterday regarding the prospect of writing an original research project concerning the experiences of women funeral directors.  I wanted to first tell you more about my research interest.  Specifically, I would like to ask women funeral directors about their experiences when first entering the industry, and if they perceived those experiences as different than their male counterparts, and how their opinions have changed as they progress in the field.  This includes the motivation for entering the funeral industry, and the impact that their first experiences of “death on the job” had on this.  The larger context of this research will be examining how the movement of women into the funeral industry is elevating their status within their field by taking back a more traditional care giving role.

“I would like to be able to interview women funeral directors for this project.  I would be willing to travel to speak with people in person, but phone or email interviews would also be okay.  This project will be intended for publication, but all participants are guaranteed anonymity through the university.  I will not use any names or personal identifying information.  I spoke with the graduate committee this morning, and i could have the approval to begin interviewing in about two weeks.

“Thank you very much for your help and interest in this project.  It will not be possible without support from women within the industry and people like you taking an interest in the field.”

If you’re interested in sharing your perspectives, please email me at kim@wfdconnect.com.