Milad Asadi, a fourth-year political science major, is the recipient of the Alice B. Macy Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Research. The honor recognizes the Anteater for his paper, “Countering Misinformation: Strategic Solutions to Protect the Average Person from Misinformation’s Distortive Effects.” Below, the Irvine native shares more about his work, mentors, and plans post-undergrad.

What made you decide to pursue a major in political science, and specifically at UCI? What interests you most about your work?

My combined interest in the realm of politics and elections as well as contemporary voting patterns propelled me to undertake this research project. After the Presidential Elections of 2020 and 2024, I felt that misinformation posed a significant threat to the future of the democratic process in the United States. As a result of this deterioration, I felt that any process of determining the solution to such a situation required greater understanding. UCI reinforced the foundation from which I approached my research. By granting its students wide ranging access to resources and excellent faculty, UCI provided the platform for which I was able to conduct my research. What interests me most about my work is how emotional appeals and identity-based misinformation spread faster than evidence-based corrections, and how digital algorithms amplify these effects.

When do you plan to finish your degree and what are your plans thereafter? 

I plan to finish my degree in June 2025 and attend law school.

What would you consider your biggest accomplishment at UCI?

My biggest academic accomplishment at UCI is winning the Alice B. Macy Award. However, one of the most meaningful things I learned at UCI is that when I started pushing myself into situations that challenged me, the risk paid off. 

What activities have you been involved with on campus and in the community?

I have been involved in the Iranian Student Union and Anteater Habitat for Humanity

Tell us about your undergrad research. What are you studying?

I am currently in the Political Science Honors Program and am researching the effects of colonial institutions and soft power on Iran pre-revolution. I’m looking at how this cultural pressure helped fuel the 1979 revolution and how, ironically, the new Iranian government ended up using similar tactics to control culture from within. 

Who has played an important mentorship role in your life thus far and why? Specifically at UCI?

One of the most important people is Professor Brunstetter for his incredible guidance and support. He provided plenty of important lessons on how to become a better writer and I believe taking his class and having him as a Thesis Advisor propelled me to win this award. I would also like to thank the wider faculty in the School of Social Sciences. It is their expertise and knowledge that encourages me continue to learn more about topics I find most interesting. 

Are there any unique circumstances/life experiences that have played a major role in where and who you are today? What challenges or hurdles have you faced in getting to where you are?

Yes, I used to second-guess my ideas and kept quiet, even when I had something to contribute. What changed wasn’t some big moment, just time and effort. I started pushing myself to take on harder topics, speak up more, and back my thinking with real work. Over time, I stopped waiting to feel ready and just started showing up. 

Where can you most often be found on campus?

In class.

What’s your best memory thus far from your undergraduate experience at UCI?

One of my best memories at UCI is just the routine of it. Grabbing coffee before class, catching up with people I saw every day, and slowly getting more comfortable in spaces that once felt unfamiliar. Nothing dramatic, just the feeling of settling in and realizing I could handle it.

Any other interesting tidbits you would like to share?

I would like to thank my incredible peers and faculty at UCI. I would also like to pay special appreciation to my brother and parents who stood by my side and supported me in my academic endeavors. None of this would have been possible without their strength, love, and support. Thank you!