Graduate School
How UofM鈥檚 Linguistics PhD Program Is Empowering Future Policy Leaders Like
Applied Linguistics | Hometown: Nigeria
For Ifeoluwa Priscilla Awopetu, language is more than just a means of communication鈥攊t鈥檚
a powerful force that shapes perception, identity, and inclusion, especially in the
digital age.
鈥淚鈥檝e always been fascinated by how language shapes the way we see the world,鈥� she shares. 鈥淕rad school gives me the opportunity to really slow down, study these dynamics, and ask deeper questions.鈥�
Priscilla鈥檚 research dives into the complex intersection of language, identity, and
ideology in digital spaces, with a current focus on how platforms define and regulate
hate speech. She examines the policies behind content moderation and how they can
influence social inclusion and digital equity.
鈥淢y goal is to push for more balanced and fair digital policies鈥攐nes that protect users without reinforcing harmful biases,鈥� she explains. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about creating safer, more inclusive online spaces.鈥�
One pivotal moment in her graduate journey came during a class with Dr. Sage Graham, where the class explored how ideology is embedded in everyday language鈥攅ven in silence. 鈥淲e even analyzed random objects and situations in class,鈥� she recalls. 鈥淚t reshaped my analytical lens and reminded me that communication is constant鈥攅ven when words aren鈥檛 present.鈥�
Priscilla credits the faculty in the Applied Linguistics program for their intellectual support and mentorship throughout her journey. 鈥淭hey鈥檝e pushed me to grow in so many ways,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 feel truly privileged to be learning from some of the best in the field.鈥�
Among her proudest achievements is being named one of the Top 30 Under 35鈥攁 recognition she says symbolizes 
how each step of her journey has contributed to her growth. 鈥淗onestly, it鈥檚 been the
whole journey,鈥� she says. 鈥淔rom my first semester to presenting at conferences and
receiving awards鈥攅very milestone has meant something.鈥�
Graduate school isn鈥檛 without its challenges, but for Priscilla, faith, purpose, and a strong support system鈥攊ncluding her husband, family, and friends鈥攌eep her grounded and motivated.
As she looks ahead, Priscilla hopes to continue teaching, researching, and shaping strategy and policy in digital communication. 鈥淲hether in academia or beyond, I want my work to make a real and lasting impact.鈥�
Published: August 2025