Stephanie Jaroslava Perun (‘23) is currently a 3rd year senior studying Political Science and Communications with a minor in Law and Society. Throughout her time at Purdue, she has become involved in the Pre Law Society, Pi Sigma Alpha, and Lambda Pi Eta.

Stephanie’s research journey began in January 2022 as part of Purdue’s Diplomacy Lab. In collaboration with watch officers in Washington D.C, Stephanie and peer collaborators created a policy brief in identifying false information. The group was featured on the W.H.O. website. Stephanie wanted to further examine her contributions, so she began individual research.

Stephanie’s research focuses on the effects of disinformation in the media on individuals. Disinformation affects the spread of information, which can impact decision-making, especially political decision-making. Her role throughout her research has been to observe how individuals intake information, what they do with it, and how they spread it. From her research, Stephanie has learned a lot about decision-making and biases. This has allowed her to check her own biases in conversations with peers or in political decision-making.

“I’ve learned that gut feelings are what make us human, but there is a line to be drawn between my own feelings and decisions that impact others.”

Stephanie Perun

Throughout her research journey, Stephanie has been guided and assisted by mentors. Bethany McGowan, associate professor in the Purdue Libraries & School of Information Studies, has been Stephanie’s primary mentor. McGowan facilitated the Diplomacy Lab that initiated Stephanie’s path into research and encouraged her to start her own independent research. Stephanie also expressed gratitude for some of her professors here at Purdue including Adam Tournier and Dr. Swati Srivastava for helping her prepare for conferences.

“I couldn’t have done it without any of them and I am incredibly grateful for their help.”

Stephanie Perun

Stephanie recommends that students interested in getting involved with undergraduate research should take the opportunity and run with it. She says these experiences can build connections that will help in the future. Stephanie also believes in the importance of passion and confidence, especially when it comes to presenting at undergraduate research conferences.

“If you are interested in a topic and want to learn more, no one can stop you!”

Stephanie Perun