PUTTING KNOWLEDGE TO GOOD USE

In the face of the many issues occurring at such a tumultuous pace it is inderstandable that one can become a cynic or even a recluse . In fact, I was jolted into action when I realised that I was on the brink of concession myself; I [almost] questioned my purpose as a citizen and wondered to what end, should one pursue a degree in Criminal Justice? Ask yourself, where would you be when you graduate? How, or better yet, ARE are you going to put your degree into use? Perhaps I already sound pessimistic, but it is not my intention to discourage (y)our academic pursuits, rather I am propelling us into action through education. We did not spend our money and expend our energy to remain cogs in the wheel! Granted that our situation appears gloomy at present but we as professionals in our careers and in our field of study should not join the pilgrimage to defeat. What better time to harness our potential and find ways to positively contribute our circles of influence.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice provides courses related to police, courts and corrections systems, as well as a background in humanities, science and mathematics. The curriculum meets the needs of both students looking to gain entry to the field and those already employed in the criminal and juvenile justice systems. Some programs offer concentrations, such as corrections, crime and justice, legal processes, loss prevention or juvenile justice. I suspect that among the graduates of 2013 that several persons will go on to pursue related fields such as Criminology, Law, Public Safety and Security Administration. Others may pursue specialities in complementary areas such as Policy Development and Public Administration. Whatever the preferences, my point is, we need to make full and extensive use of our talents, skills and qualifications. We need to master our crafts in preparation for leadership and succession planning.

In conclusion I want to shadow Mr. King’s gesture and encourage all to start making a difference, beginning with positive suggestions. It is easy to indulge in speculative discourse, to criticise and to offer negative prognoses but the reality is, “we barn here”, and if we “ain’t die here” well at least let the ants bring us some good news – that our efforts were not all in vain!

Tammy Cumberbatch