Inspirations and Journeys in Pursuing a BS Criminology Degree
My journey into pursuing a BS criminology degree was inspired by a charmingly naive notion that I could help bring about criminal justice reform from within the system. This notion was amusingly youthful in hindsight, but it planted the seed of interest that eventually blossomed into a full-fledged academic pursuit.
A Personal Insight
The desire to make a positive impact within the criminal justice system was ignited when I had to assist my children with visits to their abusive father. Despite the court requiring those visits, it did not offer adequate safety planning or support, which further motivated me to understand the complexity of the criminal justice system better.
Various Factors Driving Interest in Criminology
Several individuals pursue a degree in BS Criminology for different reasons:
1. Interest in Criminal Justice
One of the primary factors is a strong fascination with how the criminal justice system functions, including law enforcement, the legal process, and corrections. This fascination drives individuals to explore the intricacies of the system and understand its workings.
2. Desire to Help Others
Many are motivated by a desire to make a difference in their communities. They wish to help victims of crime or work towards rehabilitation for offenders, ensuring that justice and support are accessible to all.
3. Curiosity about Crime
Understanding the causes of criminal behavior and its societal impacts is another driving force. This curiosity guides individuals to delve into the psychological, ethical, and legal dimensions of crime, aiming to create safer and more just societies.
4. Career Opportunities
The allure of diverse career paths is another significant factor. Fields such as law enforcement, forensic science, legal studies, and social work offer a wide range of opportunities, making the pursuit of a criminology degree appealing.
5. Influence of Personal Experiences
Personal experiences with crime or the justice system can also inspire individuals to address these issues head-on. They may feel compelled to study criminology to tackle inequality and injustice, thereby contributing to positive change in their communities.
My Own Journey
My own journey into criminology began when I saw an opportunity to make a difference. For over three years, I had been writing training materials for the Oakland Police Department. This experience provided me with first-hand insights into the criminal justice system and its complexities.
I chose to pursue a criminology course because I have always been fascinated by the criminal justice system. My interests in understanding the causes of crime, how it is prevented and punished, and how we can create a safer society drove me towards this field. Additionally, I wanted to explore the ethical and legal implications of crime, as well as the psychological effects on victims and offenders.
Like many others, my journey is unique and often influenced by a combination of these factors. Whether it's a personal experience, a desire for social change, or a fascination with criminal justice, the path to this field can be varied and rich with purpose.