Jacob Currey
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
My project investigates how the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) fulfills its legal obligations to support individuals returning to society after incarceration. By analyzing state laws, court cases, and IDOC policies alongside interviews with formerly incarcerated individuals, I explore gaps between policy and practice in reentry services. The research highlights shortcomings and offers policy recommendations to reduce recidivism and promote successful reintegration.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
My interest in this project comes directly from my own experience inside the criminal justice system. During my incarceration, I witnessed injustice at every level; policies that looked fair on paper but were ignored in practice, and people with power using it to harm rather than help. I saw friends lose their lives in prison because the system failed to provide even the most basic protections or opportunities for rehabilitation. Even after my release, I quickly realized that escaping prison was only the beginning; the challenge of reintegration was every bit as difficult as navigating a broken court and penal system. Securing housing, employment, healthcare, and even something as simple as an ID became uphill battles that the state claimed to support but rarely delivered. These experiences gave me not only a personal stake in understanding how reentry is supposed to work, but also a sense of responsibility to expose where it falls apart. This project allows me to combine lived experience with academic research to identify systemic failures and to push for reforms that can prevent others from enduring the same unnecessary hardships.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I was drawn to interdisciplinary research because I want to become a better communicator and problem solver. Accessing other fields of research allows me to reach the diverse groups that policies and systems ultimately affect, while also revealing how deeply connected many issues are. Time and again, I’ve found that problems in criminal justice such as inequity, lack of accountability, and systemic bias mirror challenges in education, healthcare, housing, and beyond. By comparing these patterns on a broader, systemic scale, interdisciplinary research creates opportunities for a more common understanding across disciplines and communities. That shared understanding is essential for building dialogue, forging mutual respect, and ultimately moving toward solutions that different stakeholders can agree on. For me, interdisciplinary work isn’t just about gathering knowledge from multiple fields; it’s about creating bridges where reform and understanding can meet.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
Overwhelmingly, this has been a wonderful experience. At the start, I did encounter some challenges; navigating the IRB process and completing the CITI training felt intimidating at first, but with a little guidance and persistence, those hurdles became manageable and now feel more like small bumps in the road. Interestingly, what I found most “tricky” wasn’t the paperwork or protocols, but the constant urge to want to do more. Each discovery opened new questions, and I often had to remind myself to stay focused and build a strong foundation before expanding further. Through this process, I’ve gained valuable skills in legal analysis, qualitative interviewing, data organization, and academic writing, but perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned how to balance ambition with careful, methodical research. I’m deeply grateful for the base I am building and eager to continue as this project and my broader scholarly work grow.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
Do it! Find something you are truly passionate about and set a clear goal to guide your work. Passion will carry you through the long hours and unexpected challenges, and having a goal will help you stay focused when the process feels overwhelming. Take full advantage of the incredible resources and support at Northwestern; faculty, staff, and the Undergraduate Research Office are there to help you succeed. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Research is not just about results; it’s about discovery, growth, and the wonderful learning experiences you’ll collect along the way.
What would you name a boat if you had one?
Dockket Cleared
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
I could easily give a ten-minute presentation on how to prepare several delightful dishes. Cooking has always been a creative outlet for me, and I love sharing tips for making simple ingredients shine.
If your (speaking) voice were an instrument, what do you think it would be?
Trumpet
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Toy Story
What was a memorable interaction that you had on campus this week?
My fellow classmate thanking me for not being apart of the typical NU student body.