Blake Sampson NCUR 2021 Spotlight

BLAKE SAMPSON

Sophomore, STEM Education and Chemistry major

Research Mentor: Dr. Sahar Alameh

View Blake's NCUR 2021 Abstract and Presentation Information

I enjoy research because.... "I not only get to work collaboratively with my research mentor, but I have also had opportunities to guide our research project to what best suits my academic interest."

How did you first get interested in undergraduate research at UK?

"Dr. Molly Fisher came into my 'Introduction to STEM Education' class and introduced us to the REU Program in STEM Education. While I wasn't sure if I would get in, I decided to apply and the rest is history."

How long have you been engaged in undergraduate research?

"I have engaged in undergraduate research through the REU program in STEM Education for two semesters. I started in the Fall of 2020, and the experience will conclude at the end of the Spring 2021 semester."

What has been the most exciting aspect of your research so far?

"For me, the most exciting aspect of research is collecting and analyzing data. This analysis will be my - and my team's - contribution to scientific literature, which is both exciting and humbling."

What advice would you give to other UK students thinking about doing research?

"Reach out to faculty who have similar research interests as you and establish a working relationship with them. The faculty genuinely enjoy the research they do and are happy to guide you on your way to doing research."