Make an appointment with your ethnic studies professor. Tell him that you want insight and ask for at least 30 minutes.
Make a list of possible topics. Consider the ethnic group and time period that is being studied. Contemplate how culture and migration shape the experience of the ethnic group. Look at famous historical figures from the ethnic group, and determine how these people influence their culture and era. Examine stereotypes and how they affected the image of the culture.
Speak to your professor. Bring your list and ask for input on the topics you are considering. Request information on ethnic studies resources that can help your research. In particular, ask if there are any other experts in the field that you can personally interview. Make notes of your conversation with your professor.
Pick your topic. Make sure that it is a topic that you have an interest in. Look over the notes from your conversation with your professor to ensure that you are on the right track. Do a preliminary Internet search to see if there are reliable resources available in your chosen area of ethnic studies.
Go to your school library and ask the librarian about ethnic studies academic journals. Request information on books by ethnic authors that will broaden your understanding of the topic. Research the racial and cultural climate issues that influenced your topic. Make copies of books and journals you cannot take from the library. Find old TV and radio shows that feature ethnic minority interviews. Take notes as you watch and listen to them.
Compile your notes and resources. Organize them and read them. Highlight and mark your material. Make note of things that surprise you about the ethnic experience as well as things you might not agree with.
Start writing your paper. Be objective about what you have learned. Talk about what surprised you about the ethnic experience. Use your life experience and cultural perspective as you write. Revise your paper and have someone else read it.