Meet our new URA: Jefferson David

Meet our new University Research Associate, Jefferson David as he talks about his background and his interests in this spotlight article.

1. Can you tell us more about your background?

I was born and raised in a small town in Tarlac, in a household surrounded by different cultures and a rich mix of food and traditions, something that continues to influence both my writing and my interests. I am a graduate of BA Language and Literature from the University of the Philippines Baguio, where I developed a deep appreciation for stories, languages, and the many ways people make meaning. I am also a rookie fictionist, slowly building my voice and body of work.

2. What are your current research interests or what is something that you wish to work on?

I am interested in exploring projects related to disaster and medical communication, particularly how information is shaped, delivered, and received in urgent or high-stakes contexts. On the creative side, I hope to eventually develop an anthology of short fiction that engages with community narratives, memory, faith, and contemporary Filipino experiences.

3. What are some of the highlights of your experience being a University Research Associate thus far and what do you look forward to working on at the UP Department of Linguistics?

Since I am still fairly new in the role, I feel that I have yet to have major “highlights,” but it has already been a meaningful learning experience. I appreciate the opportunity to learn from the faculty, many of whom I previously encountered only through articles, lectures, or online talks while working on my undergraduate thesis on Sakuna. Being able to engage with them directly has been both humbling and inspiring.

At the UP Department of Linguistics, I look forward to contributing to projects that bring together the department’s strong foundations in linguistic research with emerging tools and methodologies. I am eager to learn and support ongoing initiatives, and grow within a space that values rigorous and thoughtful scholarship.

4. What is something that you enjoy during your leisure time?

In my free time, I enjoy reading, sleeping, and making or collecting zines, basically anything that makes me feel productive even when I’m not. I also enjoy cooking, and occasionally baking, especially when a random midnight craving convinces me it’s self-care. I attend conventions and events as well, which gives me the chance to meet new people and connect with artists.

5. Finally, do you have anything else you would like to share?

There is still so much to discover, and while many ideas in research and creative work have been explored before, no one has looked at them from your unique point of view. That is what I find exciting, being able to contribute a different perspective to the conversation.