Emily Sumrall Summer Research Fellow 2022
Research Project Title: "Legal decision-making in rape trials: The impact of victim alcohol and drug use."
Brief Project Description: "The objective of this project is to observe the effect of alcohol and/or drug use by the victim at the time of the incident on legal decision-making within rape cases. We know that rape cases demonstrate notoriously low conviction rates, so in order to better protect survivors of rape, we need to investigate the different factors that possess the power to alter the perception of the victim by the jurors. In this project we are specifically examining how the consumption of alcohol, marijuana, and opioids by the victim will affect legal decision-making."
Q. FINISH THIS SENTENCE: "I enjoy research because....."
A. "Research at UK has become my creative outlet to ask and investigate questions that are both important to the fabric of society and myself. For the first time in my educational and professional career, I am granted freedom to explore the topics I have great interest in and encouraged to work independently."
Q. How did you first get interested in undergraduate research at UK?
A. "I first became interested in undergraduate research at UK once I learned that research is not limited to the biology and chemistry majors. There truly is something for everyone in the undergraduate research office, as long as you have a passion to increase the stock of knowledge."
Q. What has been the most exciting aspect of your research experience so far?
A. "The most exciting aspect of my research experience was presenting my research from last year at the Undergraduate Research Showcase. It was incredibly special to me to share my findings with my peers who were genuinely interested in my project."
Q. How has undergraduate research impacted your college experience at the University of Kentucky?
A. "If I had not participated in undergraduate research at UK, I would not possess the same skillset I do now. I have learned important skills for my professional life, such as critical thinking and communication skills. I have also built a relationship with my faculty mentor, which can be hard to do at such a large university."
Q. What advice would you give to UK students who are considering starting research?
A. "I would advise any student considering starting their research journey to find a field of research they are genuinely interested in, and do it! Don't sign up to conduct research that you think will look good on your resume, but instead find something you are truly passionate in and you will find it to be incredibly fulfilling, and fun!"