Q&A with Leadership Alliance Student Sarah Kulas

This summer, the Roman Family Center for Decision Research participated once again in the Leadership Alliance’s Summer Research Early Identification Program (SR-EIP). The RF-CDR was pleased to host Sarah Kulas, an undergraduate student from St. Norbert College, who worked with faculty mentor Professor Oleg Urminsky. 

The Leadership Alliance is a consortium of more than 30 institutions that provide research and networking experiences to more than 4,000 undergraduate students with the aim of increasing the participation of underrepresented minority groups in higher education and research. Their rigorous summer research program is specifically designed for undergraduates interested in pursuing a PhD or MD/PhD. Students have the opportunity to conduct an independent research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor, and participate in research seminars and professional development workshops to prepare for an advanced academic career. 

We spoke with Sarah after her summer at the Roman Family CDR to hear her reflections about the program and her emerging career in behavioral science. 

Q&A with Sarah Kulas

What is your background?

SK: I grew up in Iron Mountain, MI, which is in the Upper Peninsula. From a young age, I took an interest in understanding how and why we make decisions. After high school, I chose to attend St. Norbert College, where I am currently completing my final year as a Psychology and Mathematics double major. I am also an active member of the St. Norbert cross country and track and field teams. Outside of academics, I love reading and watching TV, especially psychological thrillers, and I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my three cats.

What were you hoping to gain from the Leadership Alliance program?

SK: When I applied to the Leadership Alliance program, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. After conducting mathematical research the previous summer, I was eager to explore research within psychology to help determine my post-graduation plans. I hoped to gain a better understanding of my interests and potentially find a field to explore further in the future.

What were the highlights of the program?

SK: The highlights of the program included the fascinating research question we explored, the incredible support from my faculty mentor, and learning more about potential career options. Additionally, I enjoyed getting to know the other program participants and engaging in weekend activities such as a Cubs game, a bonfire on the pier, a boat tour, a comedy club, and museum visits.

Has the program changed the way you think about a career in behavioral science?

SK: Yes, the program has definitely influenced how I think about a career in behavioral science. It provided me with a deeper awareness of the career opportunities within the field, and I’m excited to explore them further after graduation.

Conclusion

Thank you to Sarah for spending her summer at the RF-CDR! We look forward to following her promising career in the field. 

• By
• August 27, 2024
• Roman Family Center for Decision Research