Hi Everyone!
This week, I‘ve been busy writing Kasia’s story from Poland, and today, I submitted it to Fourth Wave for review. Once any edits have been made, it’ll be live for everyone to read. Exciting!
Participant Questions
A question I‘ve been receiving from potential participants is: What topic(s) should I talk/write about?
There‘s no single answer to this question since everyone’s life and experiences differ. For some women, a particular event shapes their narrative. Others have fond memories of many different aspects of their country, such as food, music, or special holidays. All perspectives and topics are welcome.
However, for participants struggling with where to start, I’ve developed a range of sample questions to help get ideas flowing.
Sample Questions
This is neither an exhaustive list nor would I expect to ask so many questions in an interview. Rather, it’s to give a broad view of what topics you might wish to focus on should you choose to take part.
Culture
- Does your country have a predominant religion? If so, how do people show or follow their faith?
- How do people access health services and is this free?
- What types of jobs do people have?
- How are relationships viewed? E.g. courtship/marriage.
- What foods are common in your country?
- Is there a traditional form of dress/clothing?
- How do people get information about world news?
- Who governs your country?
- Do girls/women have the same advantages as men? How/how not?
Family
- What did your home look like? E.g. apartment/house/other type of dwelling.
- Who did you live with?
- What language(s) was/were spoken at home?
- How are elderly relatives and children cared for?
- Did you grow up with more than one parent?
- Have your family passed down any stories that you’d like to share?
Education
- Do people regularly attend school, including further/higher education?
- Is education free or paid for?
- Do you have any specific memories of school?
- Can you speak more than one language?
- What were your teachers like?
- Were there subjects you liked/disliked?
- Do you feel you have enough opportunities in your country? Why/why not?
Hobbies and Interests
- How do people spend their spare time?
- Is it common for people to go on vacation?
- Did you read books or magazines growing up?
- How much access did you have to entertainment? E.g. TV, cinema.
- What skills did you learn growing up?
- Did you have a hobby?
- What activities did you do with your friends?
Everyone’s Welcome
I hope you’ll consider taking part in AW80W, as I’d love to hear your story. Either email me at aw80w.project@gmail.com or fill in the contact form on the website, and I’ll get back to you soon.
Take care,
Rachel
