Robin van Halteren is a visual artist, model, and master's student.
She specializes in intersectional gender studies and the philosophy of technology and media.
Linkoping University
MA Gender Studies – Intersectionality and Change. Aug 2022 - Jun 2024
I pursued my master's degree at Linköping University in Sweden, where I completed a range of impactful courses. I have the privilege of serving as the student representative for my cohort during both the first and second years. My diverse skill set encompasses intersectional analysis, cultural competency, policy analysis, social justice advocacy, ethics, and social responsibility.
For my first master's thesis, I conducted a critical visual analysis of virtual avatars. I analyzed how the use of feminized virtual avatars (FVAs) in the fashion industry poses the risk of the appropriation and exploitation of marginalized communities and identities.
Thesis: Unveiling the Dangers of Feminized Virtual Avatars in Fashion: A Critical Visual Analysis of Shudu Gram and Miquela Sousa (Grade: A)
University College Maastricht
B.A. & Sc. Liberal Arts & Sciences. Sep 2017 - Jan 2021
During my time at University College Maastricht, I pursued a dual major in Social Sciences and Humanities. I delved into the realms of race and gender studies, social entrepreneurship, and the philosophy of technology and media. Much of my research centered on the fashion industry's intricate entanglement with issues of racism and sexism. For my bachelor thesis, I delved into the influence of algorithms in shaping and promoting the self-objectification of young women.
In January 2021, I graduated with an honours distinction and received my Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Thesis: Seducing the Algorithm: An Exploration of Self-Objectification and Algorithmic Feedback (8,4/10)
MaRBLe Undergraduate Research The challenges and benefits of First-Generation Academics First-Generation Academics
During the course of six months, my research group and I conducted focus groups, interviews, and a quantitative survey. Our recommendations were accepted by Maastricht University and brought in new measures to better support first-generation students.