This thesis would not have been possible without the hard work and support of those close to me. I have enormous gratitude for those individuals who have helped me along the way. I would like to thank my advisor, Professor Jill Morawski, for providing invaluable guidance over the past two years. Her knowledge, dedication, hard work, and kindness made this thesis possible. I appreciate the hours and hours of her time that were spent with this thesis and me. Without her expert direction and infectious vitality this thesis simply could not have happened. I cannot thank her enough for all that she has done. In addition, I would like to thank my lab mates, Kristen Lynch and Rachel Pradilla for all their hard work and assistance with this project. Their insights and productivity were invaluable to the success of this research, and I appreciate their openness and commitment to this project. Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude for my family and friends at Wesleyan who gave me their support during this journey. I could not have completed this thesis without those of you on the outside helping me to the finish line. Thank you.