Get to Know your Student Committee: Sarah Fishel

We asked the members of the 2020-2021 Student Committee to answer some questions about themselves to help you get to know who they are and what they do.

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Sarah Fishel

law liaison
2020-2021

Sarah is a fifth year joint J.D./Ph.D. student at Drexel University

Why psychology and the law?
I've always been less interesting in what people do and more interested in why, which lead me to the study of psychology. A general interest in crime, coupled with some amazing experiences in my undergrad (a freshmen seminar on opportunity gaps in the US coupled with the founding of a mentoring program between my school and a local juvenile detention center) solidified my interest in the intersection of these two topics. The more I learn, the more passionate I become about each, both, all the above! I am very fortunate to be able to pursue this passion, and grateful for the privilege.

If you could only watch 3 movies or tv shows over and over for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

1) The Great British Baking Show – When I'm looking for classic comfort, this is what I watch. Its got great food, creativity, and the most collaborative group of competitors I think I've ever seen. An all-around "feel good" pick.

2) The Amazing Race/The World’s Toughest Race/Planet Earth – This pick should really be more of a genre that encompasses beautiful shots of different places all around the world. I love learning about different cultures and watching people really stretch themselves (myself and my partner have already decided who would be driving and who would be navigating if we did the Amazing Race). These are my picks for when I need to vicariously leave my desk and my various writing/research projects behind!

3) Just Mercy – I had a hard time with this last pick because I was thinking of all of the amazing TV shows and movies that have centered around (in)justice and there’s so many. I was leaning towards TV shows because of the simple fact they’re longer so can be played on a lengthier loop,

Is a hotdog a sandwich?
No

Explain your hot take about hotdogs
In answering this question, I first put "yes" because hot dogs are similar in makeup to meatball subs. Then, I put "maybe" because some people might think of subs as a non-sandwich item. Eventually I settled on "no" because something just feels wrong about calling a hot dog a sandwich.

What is a quote you like and who said it?
Do your best, and you will be the best - my mom

What is your favorite take-out/delivery spot near your school/campus?
Beiler's Donuts - truly legendary.

What is your favorite city and why?
Galway, Ireland. I was fortunate enough to study abroad there during my undergraduate career and absolutely fell in love. The people are absolutely charming and welcoming, and I loved the mix of small town charm and city experiences, such as the presence of the college, restaurants, and other activities. I am hoping to go back to visit at some point in the future!

If you were not in graduate school what would you do?
There are a couple things I’d probably do. First is something that has to do with animals – maybe animal rescue or designing enrichment for animals in captivity. Growing up I always wanted to spend as much time with animals as possible, and that hasn’t changed much as I’ve grown up. I’ve also always thought that I would enjoy being a party planner – I love organization and family gatherings, and even before learning about psychology I was great at mediating family conflict. It would be great if I specialized in destination weddings, because then I could also get some great travelling in!