Sava Ortiz, Master of Science in Criminal Justice Concentration in Criminal Behavior
Current occupation: Residential Support Worker with the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Service
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
In my case, I went for my Master’s immediately after I finished my Bachelor’s degree. I decided to pursue a Master’s degree because I wanted to learn more about criminal behavior and expand my knowledge I had from studying Forensic Psychology during my undergrad. I chose Criminal Behavior as my concentration because I had the urge to learn more about criminals and their psychology.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I was extremely impressed with the quality of education during my undergrad that I decided to continue my education at Tiffin University. The professors incorporate their professional experience in the classroom, which is what helped me throughout my undergrad. Hearing about the professors’ experiences helped to better understand the concepts provided in the textbooks. All of the professors were more than willing to help all of their students succeed. I did not regret my decision to be a Tiffin University dragon.
What has been your experience with the program so far?
I have had a wonderful experience with this program! The professors incorporate assignments for students to shadow professionals in the field. I feel this program really prepares students for graduation and beyond. I am so grateful for each professor and class I have had. I have learned so much and have had the opportunities to shadow my dream job both during my undergraduate and graduate careers.
“I feel this program really prepares students for graduation and beyond.”
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
I’m not going to lie, it has been rough. School can get hard sometimes. But, the support from my family and the professors is what has kept me motivated during this program. I have dreams I want to achieve, and I do not want anything to get in the way of making those happen. As long as you think of what you want for your future, you can make it through anything.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about going back to school?
Two words-DO IT! It is never too late to go back to school. It is the best decision you could ever make in your life. The best thing that could happen is you love it, make a lot of friends, and get a degree. No one can ever take a degree or your education away from you. It’s the best thing you could do for yourself. I thought about taking a break after my undergrad, but now I am happy I did not do that because I will have another degree come December. You are never too old to go back to school. Figure out what you want to do and go for it. You will never regret 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?
I have never been away from home. I took a risk by moving to Tiffin and starting a whole new chapter of my life. What have I gained from that? Absolutely everything. I made friends and a lot of memories, learned a lot, and decided what I want to do with my future. I gained experiences that I could not have had elsewhere. Because of my overall experience and education with Tiffin University, I am proud to say that I am an employee for The State of Ohio working with criminals and other individuals with severe mental illness. Every risk was worth it.