Doctoral scholar Laura Pappano is known for her contributions to the advancement of girlhood studies, especially through her research on adolescent girls' educational experiences and socialization. She examines the cultural narratives surrounding girlhood and how these influence identity formation and academic engagement. Pappano's work emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique challenges girls face in education, advocating for policies that promote gender equity. By shedding light on the intersection of gender, education, and society, she encourages dialogue about empowering young women in their roles as learners and leaders.