Acknowledgements
Many thanks to all who have encouraged me along the way of writing this thesis.
Professor Harrison who helped me from the very beginnings of this research and guided
me along every step. Without her help this undertaking would have been impossible.
Thank you to my roommates and friends, Lauren, Meghan, and Emily who have been
there for me through so much and who encouraged me when things seemed too tough,
Finally, an extremely huge thank you to my parents for the countless things they have
done (and will do) for me over the years. Nothing in my life would be possible without
them.