During my first year at American University, I have been exposed to a vast array of knowledge and skills in regard to politics and criminal justice. As a student in American University’s School of Public Affairs Leadership Program, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in a social action project. Throughout this project, I have deepened my understanding of education policy within the United States, along with improving my research skills and the ability to work in groups. Additionally, I have become passionate about ensuring that all students have access to an equitable and high-quality public education.
In addition to learning valuable research skills through courses at American University, I have been fortunate to be awarded an Undergraduate Research Fellowship. Through this project, I have collected first-hand accounts from those directly impacted by the death penalty, including personal narratives from inmates currently or previously on death row. I have analyzed each writing piece to identify common themes. Going forward, I will be using these themes and stories to examine the psychological impacts of the death penalty. The skills I have acquired through this fellowship can be easily transferred to future research projects.