Student passionate about gender studies research, art tells peers to live in the moment
Zoelyn Mulloy. Courtesy photo
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2025 graduates.
If there’s one lesson Zoelyn Mulloy has learned during her academic career, it’s to live in the moment because you never know where you’ll end up.
Hailing from Phoenix, School of Social Transformation student Zoelyn Mulloy started her academic career during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
After many unexpected challenges and turns, she found herself thriving at ASU and is now graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in in gender, women and sexuality studies and a minor in art history.
“This academic year, Zoe has steadily worked on her honors research exploring gender norms of early 2000s cable tween TV, at a moment of heightened ‘girl power’ media attention,” said Associate Professor Crystal Jackson.
“Zoe is sharp, curious, kind and engaged, and it’s been a joy watching her develop confidence in her research skills; she relishes those fulfilling 'aha!' moments of scholarship.”
Editor’s note: Answers have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?
Answer: When I graduated high school, I went to college undecided until I took an introductory course on gender, women and sexuality. Coming from a small and sheltered school, this course opened my eyes to ideas I had never heard before. If anything, I encourage everyone to take at least one gender or women’s studies-related course during their college career.
Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: Being within the School of Social Transformation has taught me how to foster empathy for anyone and everyone. I have gained a deeper understanding not just for others, but for myself as well. This constantly changing field of study is important because it guides us to a better, more inclusive future.
Q: Why did you choose ASU?
A: To be honest, ASU was not my first choice of college. I applied to ASU while in high school; however, I got accepted to my top school in Washington. After a few months away from home, I decided I needed to return home due to personal reasons; however, I wasn't going to let this stop me from pursuing my degree.
While working on making plans to return home, I applied to ASU once again. While here, I have made some of the greatest friends I could have ever asked for, adopted my first cat and met my partner of three years.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: I can’t choose just one! I would have to say both my thesis director Dr. Crystal Jackson and English Professor Dr. James Blasingame (Dr. B!).
Dr. Jackson has taught me that it is OK to make mistakes and to not take myself too seriously. Dr. B taught me another important value, which is friendship.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you would give to students?
A: I would say to take things a bit slower. Sometimes the craziness of life gets in the way and everything seems like it's moving so fast. It’s important to be in the moment and to even be happy about your accomplishments no matter how big or small they may seem.
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?
A: I would say my favorite spot on campus is a popular one, despite its name, and that would be the Secret Garden. I can’t give the exact location of where this area is on campus because that just ruins the fun of finding this place. I will say, however, it is a peaceful location with grass and some seating shaded by trees and buildings. The Secret Garden is where I would go in between classes to do homework or just relax.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I am unsure where I will go after graduation. I have had many thoughts about what I would like to do, like working with nonprofits, starting my own art business and even becoming a teacher. I'm unsure if I will pursue higher education at the moment; however, I plan on using my degree wherever I go. Although it is uncertain, I’m looking forward to what comes next!
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: In a perfect world, I would use the money to aid in cancer research. One of my biggest supporters and inspirations in life is my mother, who is a two-time cancer survivor, and I know not everyone has the privilege to say that. Cancer research saved my mother, and the more we can invest in it, the more lives will be saved.
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