Investigating the root causes of criminal activities
Student Researcher Ella Vance Dives Deep into Criminal Law Theory with Paul H. Robinson
Ella Vance, a third-year student majoring in psychology and criminology from Roanoke, Virginia, is making her mark in the world of criminal law theory. Vance is currently participating in a research project under the guidance of Paul H. Robinson, the Colin S. Diver Professor of Law at Penn Carey Law, University of Pennsylvania.
Vance's role in the research is multifaceted. She is involved in the ground floor of the research process, searching for literature reviews, scouring meta-analyses, and reading scholarly articles. This meticulous work lays the foundation for the project, which explores the causes of crime, tackling issues such as addiction, mental health, and poverty.
Vance finds the project valuable due to the opportunity to tap into Robinson's expertise. She describes Robinson as someone she can openly discuss the project with, praising his supportive and collaborative approach. Robinson, in turn, has praised Vance, calling her an "absolute star" with "wonderful work habits."
The research project often results in law review articles or books. Vance drafts the findings into memo form with details on possible solutions or treatments. Her recommendations are a testament to her curiosity and inquisitive nature, qualities she encourages other students to cultivate during their researcher-student relationships.
Vance's work on the project was supported by the Penn Undergraduate Research Mentoring Program, which provided a $5,000 award for the 10-week summer opportunity. This support allowed Vance to fully immerse herself in the research, working alongside Robinson and other researchers from the law school.
As the project progresses, Vance continues to contribute her unique perspective and diligent work ethic, making significant strides in the field of criminal law theory. Her journey serves as an inspiration to other students, demonstrating the value of curiosity, hard work, and mentorship in academic research.
