The Office of Student Research is proud to feature Sandrah Burrill in this week’s “Scholar Story”.

Sandrah “Sandy” Burrill is a junior at Longwood University and is also a member of the Cormier Honors College for Citizen Scholars. Sandy is majoring in Psychology and she also has a minor in Neuroscience Studies. Sandy started her research project with her faculty mentor, Dr. Sarai Blincoe, in fall 2022 when she participated in the Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program. Sandy’s research investigated the qualitative experiences that people had during periods of device-free time. Sandy became involved in independent research because “it allows for a deeper, hands-on application of what is learned throughout college.”

During the research process Sandy was “able to glean a better understanding of where my field is in the "real world" and was provided tools with which to succeed in my future studies and career. Along with this, I have a greater understanding and appreciation for the dedication and brilliance of scientists and researchers.”

Sandy said that she particularly enjoyed this research project because “working with people is something that I love. Although not working face-to-face with people, in this research project, I had the opportunity to read and code nearly 100 reflective summaries wherein people discussed their experiences with device-free periods of time. Hearing about the impacts, struggles, and inner workings of their mind was fascinating!”

Sandy is currently working with her faculty mentor, Dr. Sarai Blincoe, to prepare a manuscript for future publication. Sandy also won 1st place for the Best Student Presentation Award at the Fall 2022 Student Showcase for Research and Creative Inquiry. Check out Sandy's presentation here.

After graduation, Sandy plans to attend graduate school for clinical mental health counseling and earn her licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Congratulations to Sandy on her successful research!

If you would like to have your research featured in a “Scholar Story”, or if you would like to learn more about getting involved in research at Longwood University, please visit Longwood’s Office of Student Research website http://www.longwood.edu/office-of-student-research/

or contact Amorette Barber, Director of the Office of Student Research (osr@longwood.edu or barberar@longwood.edu)