Aiyana
What career can I be in my favor, since I passion for fixing the criminal justice system and being able to help people by listen to them and understanding their mindset behind their actions?
My name is Aiyana, I am a senior in high school, who struggled but later on understood my mindset and what caused me to struggle to change. Through overcoming and reflexing I learned a lot about myself and that lead me to build a passion to help other who are in need for help and someone to just listen to their problems. I am also on the debate team at my school and have a passion for arguing and finding justice in what's unfair by giving each person their fair dues. Fixing the broken criminal justice system is very complex and difficult, however I believe it can and needs to be fixed. Understanding the system I realized that their is valid evidence for everything and investigating is something that I am good at making me love criminology and Forensic science the evidence can not lie and I like to have proof or reason to understand the situation. I will be starting college in the fall of 2016 and I'll be majoring in Psychology as a starting point for me. I am asking this question because I have researched and it not likely for me to find a job right after college in the field that I am. I also want to combine the things I love doing to benefit me in the future. #criminology #forensic-psychology #criminal-defense
3 answers
Lauren Hall
Lauren’s Answer
Hi Aiyana,
You are already on the right track by selecting psychology as your undergraduate major. I think you could take two routes after college to pursue your interests. If you are interested in reforming the system and making a difference in policy, you could pursue a Master's degree in Public Policy. If you are interested in helping those that are connected to the criminal justice system and making a difference in lives or the community, you could pursue a Master's degree in Social Work. I suggest looking into each of these graduate degrees and sample courses to see which would align better with your goals.
All the best,
Lauren
Thank I will look more into it.
Aiyana
Dr. Kelly Desso
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Charting Your Career Path in Criminal Justice
Given your strong desire to rectify the flaws in the criminal justice system, your ability to empathize with people, comprehend their motivations, and your fascination with criminology and forensic science, there are several career options that perfectly match your interests and abilities:
1. Criminal Justice Reform Advocate: In this role, you could strive to amend policies and practices within the criminal justice system to render it more equitable and just. This involves campaigning for reforms, spreading awareness about systemic issues, and collaborating with policymakers to bring about change.
2. Forensic Psychologist: Forensic psychologists operate at the crossroads of psychology and criminal justice. They evaluate individuals engaged in legal proceedings, such as defendants or witnesses, to comprehend their mental condition and behavior. Using psychological concepts, forensic psychologists aid in legal decisions and offer insights into criminal conduct.
3. Criminal Defense Attorney: As a defense attorney, you would represent those accused of crimes to ensure they receive a fair trial. Your enthusiasm for debate and seeking justice in unjust situations could be utilized in defending your clients' rights and advocating for their best interests within the legal framework.
4. Victim Advocate: In this role, you would lend your ears to victims' experiences, offer emotional support, guide them through the legal maze, and link them with resources for recovery.
5. Criminologist: Criminologists delve into crime patterns, reasons behind criminal behavior, and the efficacy of interventions within the criminal justice system. Through research and data analysis, criminologists provide valuable insights that can inform policy amendments and enhance the system's operation.
6. Policy Analyst in Criminal Justice: These analysts scrutinize current criminal justice policies, assess their effects, and formulate suggestions for reform. By examining data, trends, and best practices, policy analysts significantly influence legislation and initiatives aimed at enhancing the fairness and efficiency of the criminal justice system.
All these career paths provide opportunities to effect meaningful change in the criminal justice system while leveraging your strengths in empathetic listening, understanding others, advocacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Top 3 Credible Sources Consulted:
1. American Psychological Association (APA): The APA offers in-depth insights into psychology careers, including forensic psychology. Their resources provide information on educational prerequisites, job prospects, and professional growth opportunities in this field.
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides extensive data on various criminal justice occupations, such as lawyers, psychologists, criminologists, and policy analysts. Their occupational outlook handbook offers detailed information on job opportunities, salaries, and necessary qualifications.
3. National Institute of Justice (NIJ): The NIJ, a research agency within the U.S. Department of Justice, focuses on crime control and justice policy issues. Their publications discuss topics like criminal justice reform initiatives, advancements in forensic science, and evidence-based practices in law enforcement.
These sources were referred to ensure the career guidance provided is accurate, reliable, and tailored to your interests in rectifying the criminal justice system and aiding others through empathetic listening and understanding.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.