This has been an arduous and insightful journey, and I am very, very grateful for its end. I would like to thank my many professors for the grueling coursework and constructive feedback that has allowed me to grow as an academic expert in my field of study. Additionally, I want to express my gratitude towards my dissertation committee for their steadfast dedication in helping me complete this journey. Finally, I want to thank my family and friends for continuously believing in me, even at times when I doubted my own abilities to succeed. vi