Current occupation:
Graduate Assistant at the Murphy Academic Support Center
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I have always loved learning and expanding my knowledge, so getting the opportunity to do so was exciting to me. I am not only pursuing an MSCJ in Forensic Psychology, but I am also pursuing an MSCJ in Crime Analysis simultaneously. This is not an opportunity that everyone is afforded; thus, I could not pass up the chance that allows me to expand my professional options when entering the criminal justice field.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I originally chose Tiffin University because I attended the first-ever Forensic Science Academy (i.e., summer camp) that the university held. There, I was able to meet some amazing professors who shared incredible experiences from their time in the field. I was able to learn about all the different opportunities available in Forensics, and the professors encouraged me to go above and beyond the minimum. By holding myself to the highest academic standard, I was able to complete both a BS in Forensic Science and a BCJ in Forensic Psychology in four years at Tiffin University. After graduating, I decided to stay for graduate school because I could pursue what I wanted while getting to learn more from the dedicated faculty who continue to encourage me.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
So far, the program has been great! I think I was surprised how laid back the in-person Forensic Psychology program was at first, but this could have been because I did not have daily chemistry and math homework. I was a little anxious about the online courses for the Crime Analysis program because I knew that they were only seven weeks. Taking online courses during undergrad, I knew that seven weeks went by fast, and I was nervous that it would be difficult to manage with the more in-depth nature of graduate courses. At times it can be difficult to keep up, but as long as I communicate with my professors in a timely manner, my professors have been willing to work with me because they all understand that life can get in the way sometimes.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
It is hard to juggle work and school, but my family has been extremely supportive. I am fortunate enough to be local, so I live at home. I do not have any kids of my own, which does make things easier, and my parents also have busy schedules; thus, we usually do our own thing. Juggling work with school isn’t as hard because my position on campus allows me to accommodate my classes. My bosses are also supportive and understand the importance of mental health and self-care. I think that the best thing to do if you are nervous about handling work, family, and school all at once is to write everything down. Write out due dates, doctors’ appointments, family events, etc., as soon as you know about them. I set a calendar in the kitchen with my schedule, so my family can reference it and let me know if something important comes up. Also, communicating with professors when your personal life gets messy can help a lot. Most professors want you to succeed and do so with as little stress as possible. If necessary, express that you are nervous, as it is normal to be nervous and can help relieve some of your stress. You are here for you, so you need to look out for your well-being.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
I think how far I have come helps motivate me to keep going. Since I turned 18 years old, I have had four surgeries, and I have been dealing with two chronic, rare diseases. It’s been five years since I graduated from high school, and I look back in awe at everything that I have accomplished. I have had so many supporters along the way, but I have also had so many naysayers. To me, those who try to discourage me only fuel my fire more, but it is still disheartening to hear someone tell me I shouldn’t try to reach my goals. I try to use this a fuel to my fire when I can, but ultimately, it is my life, so I just try to make it the best I can.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
While I went straight into school myself, my mother did not. She will be graduating with her master’s from another university around the same time as me. She has been working 40 hours a week, doing an internship for about 10 hours a week, and keeping up with some of the housework as well. She has cried, but she has also laughed. She has considered giving up, but she hasn’t. So, I would say, it is never too late. Don’t give up on yourself, and take it one step at a time. It’s okay to ask for help, too! My mom comes home from her counseling internship so excited every day, talking about how she helped someone or learnt something new. If you want it, go for it! You definitely won’t get it if you do not try!
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?
Well, I did take a risk attempting to complete both bachelor’s degrees in four years. I was able to finish them both on time, with a 4.0 GPA, made several friends, and got a job as a tutor turned GA. I do not think this was the most important risk I took. I am not a risk taker, so I cannot identify too many times that I have taken a risk in the typical sense; however, I feel like I take a risk every day. I am always pushing myself to do better than before and to accomplish as much as I can, and so far, I have. Yet, I have gained the realization that I am capable, but just because I am capable doesn’t mean it is what is best for me. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing, but looking forward, I want to make decisions for myself in the now. I won’t forget about making decisions for my future, but I want to focus on making the best out of every part of the journey!