Acacia Hull, MS in Criminal Justice – Justice Administration
Current occupation: Ottawa County Sheriff Department
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I wanted to be able to teach criminal justice classes and share my experiences with others.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I started my schooling at Terra State Community College, when I learned about the dual relationship between the schools, and found out my classes would transfer, I thought how awesome would it be to have a bachelors degree in criminal justice in law enforcement as well. I then thought since I got my bachelors, and I’ve heard nothing but awesome reviews about Tiffin’s master program in Justice Administration, I might as well keep going!
What has been your experience with the program so far?
I have enjoyed being able to take all my classes online, and the instructors have been very helpful and knowledgeably about the courses they are teaching. Moodle was easy to use, the instructors were easy to get ahold of, so overall, it has been a fantastic experience.
All of the faculty I have encountered are very knowledgeable in the courses they are instructing. Every instructor I have reached out to for any questions , have been quick responding and very helpful. John McCauley, Patrick Friscone, Monique Chouraeshkenazi, Michael Lewis, and Mike White are just a few who I have encountered who have gone above and beyond to assist many throughout their classes here at Tiffin.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school?
I always tell people to make time for themselves. I have three kids, work full time, and also have a part time job on the side. I managed to juggle all of them and if you are willing to better yourself through education, you will make time, and no matter how stressful it gets, it will all be worth it in the end.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
My family and my end goals , I enjoy working in the field, but I also want to be able to teach to others who are interested in criminal justice, all that I have learned, seen and witnessed.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
If you really want to go back to school, do it. There is no one holding you back but yourself. If you think you can’t do it, you’re wrong. It doesn’t matter how old you are, how behind you are in technology, if you have the ambition and goal, then embrace it.
TU’s motto is: Without risk there is no gain. Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and what you gained from it?
Taking risks is just a part of everyone’s journey. Anyone in any position in the criminal justice field, has a risk going to work each day, just like anyone else. I took a risk going back to school after doing everything backwards, kids, marriage, house, then school, but in the end it has all been worth it and I don’t regret any of it!