First, I received a quality education through the University of Maryland, College Park’s Criminology and Criminal Justice (CCJS) program at USG which enhanced my passion for juvenile justice. The classes I took on juvenile delinquency, criminal investigations, domestic violence, and many others, provided me with a practical and theoretical framework of the criminal justice system. I thoroughly enjoyed my program not only because the material was intriguing, but because I was learning from local defense attorneys, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers; all of whom helped me develop my own understanding of what justice is.

Second, as a former undergraduate student and current graduate student, I understand the stress that comes along with academics. But in the moments when things got challenging, I found comfort in knowing I was not alone. My study squad in undergrad were there to lean on for support, study sessions in the library, and most importantly, encouragement. But it was not just the friends in my program that provided this support. My peers in other programs and I would send each other internships and job postings related to our respective fields of interest. Now, USG is not solely a place to take classes and leave. No, USG is a place where my friends and I stayed late on campus to attend events (with free food!). USG is a place where students celebrate diversity at events such as International Night and give back to the community by volunteering at mobile market food distribution events. USG helped me develop lifelong relationships and a community right here in Montgomery County.