Career Corner
Recent grad April Haile talks about her experience as a crim major and her new career as an investigator for the Public Defenders Office
What was your experience like as an undergraduate student in Criminology and Criminal Justice?
My overall experience was excellent. I had outstanding advisors who helped me get ahead both academically and personally. There were a wide variety of courses to fulfill my varied interests and academic needs. The professors are highly qualified, dedicated individuals sincerely interested in the success of their students and willing to share their knowledge and expertise.
What did you learn in your coursework that most prepared you for your current job?
The Internship Program provided me the opportunity to work in the field and learn the skills I needed for my current job. I interned at the Public Defenders Office, where upon graduation I was fortunate to be offered a position as an investigator. I have no doubt that had it not been for the Internship Program and the quality of courses taught within the College, I would not have had this opportunity. FSU is nationally recognized for its criminology program, and a FSU criminology degree highly regarded.
Can you describe your position and the type of work you do?
I'm an investigator responsible for conducting investigations of misdemeanor and juvenile cases as well as other assigned cases. I conduct crime scene investigations to gather evidence and take pictures for use in court. I also take statements from witnesses, evaluate and preserve evidence, and work with law enforcement who testify in court. My position also requires conducting background investigations and locating people.
What advice would you offer to students earning a degree in criminology?
Stay in touch with your advisors! They will help you create an efficient schedule, and they are the best resource for career information and graduate school. Take full advantage of all of the academic and extracurricular organizations through the College because these experiences and contacts will be invaluable in the future. Most importantly, participate in the BS-MS and Internship programs. Take advantage of the opportunity to take graduate classes that will count for your bachelor's and master's degrees and explore your interests and gain hands-on experience through internships.
What's something you would “brag” about to others about the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice?
That you will never have a dull day! There is always something new and interesting to learn. You learn how to deal with people and what makes them “tick.” You gain insight into why people do the things they do and the motivators and driving forces behind their actions.
Is there anything you'd like to see change about the College?
Not one thing! Having entered FSU not knowing what I wanted to major in, the College provided me with a myriad of areas within the field to choose from. This opened my eyes to the fact that criminology is more than just a field for people who want to become involved with law enforcement. It helped me devise my own understanding of the field and how to apply knowledge gained.
