Criminology student Grace Elendu. Credit: S. Bala
Connecting academic research with real world issues: Grace Elendu’s URA Experience
Listening and engaging with lived experiences is a key part of research
Grace Elendu, a criminology major in the Faculty of Arts, earned an Undergraduate Research Award (URA) and learned valuable skills through 16 weeks of mentorship.
During the URA, Elendu conducted research on restorative justice models and practices, drawing comparisons to traditional justice systems. Her work also delved into Indigenous water laws and responsibilities, where she explored the reverence for water as a sacred entity and the vital role Indigenous women play in its protection. This immersive research experience not only deepened her understanding of the intersection between academic inquiry and real-world challenges but also enriched her overall university journey. Elendu plans to carry this knowledge into her future legal career, approaching her work thoughtfully and fairly while keeping people and their experiences at the forefront.
In the summer of 2024, Elendu worked under the supervision of Dr. Andrew Woolford, professor and head of the Department of Sociology and Criminology. Dr. Woolford is an Emeritus of the College of the Royal Society of Canada, Fullbright Scholar and former President of the International Association of Genocide Scholars. His research focuses on themes of power, resistance, justice and destruction.
We spoke with Elendu about her URA experience:
What research did you conduct?
Elendu: I focused on researching restorative justice models and practices, comparing them to traditional forms of justice. Restorative justice emphasizes healing, accountability and community-based approaches, which often align with Indigenous worldviews but it’s important to note that they are not the same. Additionally, I explored Indigenous water laws and responsibilities, learning how water is viewed as a sacred entity and how Indigenous women are central to its protection. Both areas of research highlighted how traditional and Indigenous practices offer meaningful alternatives to mainstream systems.
What made you decide to apply for an URA?
Elendu: I wanted to gain hands-on research experience and learn from a professor in a way that went beyond the classroom. The URA felt like a great opportunity to dive deeper into topics I’m passionate about while building skills for my future. Additionally, it will strengthen my academic profile for applying to law schools.
Was there anything that surprised you during the research process?
Elendu: I was surprised by how much I learned from talking and connecting with people, especially Elders and knowledge holders. Attending a residential school survivor event and listening to Elder Betty Ross share her story was incredibly eye-opening. It taught me that research is not just about books and articles—it’s about listening and engaging with lived experiences.
What did you learn from the URA experience? How has it enriched your university journey?
Elendu: The URA taught me how to think critically, manage my time and communicate my ideas succinctly. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the connection between academic research and real-world issues. This experience has made my university journey feel more meaningful, and it’s shown me how research can create positive change.
How do your studies in the Faculty of Arts complement your research activities and your future career goals?
Elendu: My studies in criminology and psychology help me understand how people behave and how justice systems work. This connects to my goal of becoming a lawyer; it gives me the tools to think carefully about legal issues and how they affect people and communities. Through my research on restorative justice and Indigenous practices, I’ve learned how justice can be about healing and accountability, not just punishment. I plan to use this knowledge in the future as a lawyer to approach my work in a thoughtful and fair way, ensuring I keep people and their experiences at the forefront.
The URA is an incredible opportunity for students interested in conducting research to spend 16 full-time weeks from May to August under the mentorship of a professor of their choice. It offers many benefits: building valuable research skills, expanding your academic network and a $7,000 monetary award.
Applications for the 2025 URA are open! Visit the Undergraduate Research Awards webpage for more information on the application criteria and guidelines. There are over 50 Faculty of Arts researchers willing to take on an undergraduate student this summer.