ZACHARY OWEN 2024 Posters-at-the-Capitol Spotlight

Zachary Owen

Major: Public Policy

Minor: Community & Leadership Development 

Research Mentor: Dr. Cory Curl

I enjoy research because.... "I can discover solutions to real-world problems!"

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

"Research is an essential part of the public policy process! As I progressed through my classes with the Martin School of Public Policy & Administration, I came to fall in love with research! Research methods and strategies have allowed me to learn about alternative policies that impact people on a daily basis!"

How long have you been engaged in undergraduate research?

"Since my sophomore year at UK"

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

"Through my research, I found out that a problem that impacts renters across the United States can be addressed with such a small policy fix! By including a renter's positive payment history in their credit score, they become much more likely to get approved for a mortgage and eventually become a homeowner in a time when homeownership is extremely hard to attain!"

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

"Research isn't for everyone, but it plays a vital role in our society so that we can make informed decisions. If you decide to do research, don't go into it with an idea of where you might end up! Analyze your problem, understand the context, and then arrive at a solution!"