Reflect On This Discussion Assignment

For This Discussion Assignment Reflect On Everything That You Have Ex

For this discussion assignment, reflect on everything that you have experienced throughout your degree program. Consider the following aspects of your experiences – and respond only to the points that apply to you: What might have helped you in the beginning of your Criminal Justice program that you wish you had known earlier? What are your plans after graduation? Based on your studies, have you selected a career that meets your future aspirations, plans and goals? How well do you think this program prepared you for your next career step or career move?

Have you submitted applications or selected an initial occupation? What type of agency are you interested in as your first choice? Have you considered continuing your education in a graduate program? If you have selected a graduate program of study, what is the specialty? Have you determined a longer-range career plan that is beyond your entry-level position in Criminal Justice?

Are you already employed in a Criminal Justice occupation (or a related occupational field) – and if so, why did you choose to get a degree? What is one piece of advice that you would pass on to new Criminal Justice students that will help them to make the most of their time at AIU to help them graduate?

Paper For Above instruction

Throughout my journey in the Criminal Justice degree program at AIU, I have gained invaluable insights into the nuances and demands of the field. Reflecting on my experiences, I recognize that there are certain aspects that could have been better prepared for at the outset. Specifically, understanding the practical applications of theoretical concepts and gaining early exposure to fieldwork or internships might have eased my transition into the professional environment. Such early engagement would have provided a clearer perspective on the day-to-day realities of a career in criminal justice, enabling me to tailor my academic and extracurricular efforts more effectively.

My plans post-graduation revolve around securing a position within a law enforcement agency, with the ultimate goal of advancing into supervisory roles. I have researched several agencies, including local police departments and federal agencies like the FBI, aiming to identify those that align with my aspirations for community engagement, policy influence, and career growth. Additionally, I am considering furthering my education through a graduate program specializing in criminal law or forensic psychology to deepen my expertise and broaden my career opportunities. This aligns with my long-term objective of contributing to criminal justice reform initiatives or becoming a criminal defense attorney.

In terms of career preparedness, I believe the AIU program has provided a solid foundation in criminal justice principles, legal procedures, and ethical considerations. However, I acknowledge that practical experience and leadership training are areas I need to develop further. Therefore, I am actively seeking internships and volunteer opportunities to supplement my academic knowledge with real-world skills. These efforts are essential to ensure I am well-equipped for an initial entry-level position and subsequent career progression.

Currently, I am in the process of submitting applications for entry-level roles in law enforcement agencies. My primary interest is in local police departments because of their direct impact on community safety and engagement. I have also contemplated working with specialized units such as cybercrime or narcotics enforcement, depending on the opportunities available. Continuing my education appears to be a crucial step, and I am exploring graduate programs that offer flexibility and specialization options in criminal justice or related fields.

As for career planning beyond the entry-level position, I envision myself progressing into leadership roles, such as detective or criminal investigator, and eventually moving into policy advisory positions within governmental agencies. My broader aspiration is to influence criminal justice policies that promote fairness, accountability, and community trust.

In addition, I am already employed in a criminal justice-related field as a probation officer, which was motivated by my desire to support rehabilitation and community safety. Pursuing a degree in criminal justice was a strategic decision to enhance my understanding of the legal system and improve my effectiveness in this role. The degree has helped me develop a more comprehensive perspective on the criminal justice process and the importance of ethics and professionalism in service delivery.

One valuable piece of advice I would offer to new Criminal Justice students is to actively seek practical experiences alongside academic endeavors. Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteering can significantly enhance learning, build professional networks, and clarify career interests. Additionally, staying proactive about graduate studies and specialization options can pave the way for a more tailored and successful career path. Ultimately, maintaining a balance between academics and experiential learning will maximize the benefits of the program and better prepare students for their future roles in the field.

References

• Aggarwal, S. (2017). Criminal Justice: An Introduction to the Criminal Justice System. Pearson.
• Barker, T. (2020). Law Enforcement in the 21st Century. Routledge.
• Crank, J. P. (2014). Understanding Police Culture. Anderson Publishing.
• Friedrichs, D. O. (2010). Trusted Criminal Justice: A Human Service Perspective. Prentice Hall.
• Gottfredson, M. R., & Snyder, H. N. (2012). Justice and Public Safety. Elsevier.
• Hester, R., & Eby, D. (2017). Community Policing: Partnerships for Problem Solving. Routledge.
• Reichel, P. L. (2021). Introduction to Criminal Justice. Routledge.
• Schmalleger, F. (2019). Criminal Justice Today: An Introductory Text for the 21st Century. Pearson.
• Sklansky, D. A. (2017). The Justice Cascade: How Human Rights Prosecutions Are Changing World Politics. W.W. Norton & Company.
• Walker, S. (2018). The New World of Police Accountability. Routledge.