The Cupcake Thesis

A college student writing an undergraduate thesis on cupcakes- who would have thought?!

First things first: Who am I?

I am. . .

•  Erin Leonard, an Honors College Senior at the University of Central Arkansas 
•  Pursing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences with an Interdisciplinary Minor 
•  A cupcake lover and a self-proclaimed cupcake connoisseur
•  Writing a thesis on cupcakes 

Meet my Mentor. . .

• Celia Harkey, an adjunct instructor at the University of Central Arkansas 
• Registered Dietitian teaching Nutrition and Food Science courses
• Focused on all things food including those special treats like cupcakes 

Second is best: Why Cupcakes?

I chose cupcakes because…

• I have a passion for baking, especially baking cupcakes
• I wanted to learn more about cupcakes and the cupcake industry
• Cupcakes have always been my favorite desserts

Third time’s a charm: What’s the game plan?

This thesis will cover. . .

• The history of the cupcake: from the beginning to present
• The cupcake industry: Boom and Bust?
• Baking your own cupcakes: the process of learning how make homemade cupcakes appear professionally made

So what’s the purpose of this blog?

Three words: Pre-Thesis Progress Tracker.

I intend to use this blog to keep track of the steps I take along the way to becoming a true cupcake connoisseur. Join me in my quest to write the perfect thesis as I learn to make cupcakes from scratch, visit various bakeries to learn the business perspective behind the sweet treats, and find out the history behind these delectable desserts.