About:
Dr. Swenson completed her BA in languages and linguistics at Baylor University and her Ph.D. in linguistics at MIT. Dr. Swenson’s research focuses on the ways in which data from understudied languages can contribute to our understanding of human language. Her specialization is in Dravidian languages, spoken in Southern India. Her research focuses on the way syntax (the structure of language) interfaces with the other parts of the grammar and is predominantly driven by data from fieldwork. In addition to formal linguistics, she enjoys learning about the history and culture of India, the Syrian Christian Church, Islam and Hinduism.