Jade Meicher '21

Major: Criminal Justice and Psychology

Why this major?

I am double majoring in criminal justice and psychology because I truly want to understand people. I believe understanding someone and their experiences is the best way to help them grow. This is especially important in criminal justice, since this knowledge can help prevent previous offenders from being recommitted.

What is your career objective?

I have lots of ideas for a career, but at the moment I hope to work with government agencies or police departments as a forensic psychologist.

How has what you’ve learned prepared you for your future?  

The classes I have taken so far cover a wide array of theories and reasoning behind people and their actions. They have taught me the importance of distancing myself from a situation in order to remove personal judgment from my interactions with people.

Have you had opportunities to work closely with Carroll faculty?

Carroll’s small class sizes mean the professors really know you. Carroll also has advisers for each student that are always there to help. My adviser taught one of my classes during my first semester. She made every effort to get to know me, my goals and how to help me succeed inside and outside the classroom. The support always pushes me to do better when I begin to feel weighed down.


My favorite class experience from my time at Carroll occurred in my Intro to Criminal Justice course. We had a debate day that involved gathering information on multiple sides of controversial issues. The professor then randomly assigned you to a side. This allowed me to see things from multiple perspectives and taught me to create fact-based opinions, whether or not I agreed with them.

How has Carroll enriched your growth as a person?

Carroll has given me so many opportunities to explore my interests. I am currently a student-worker for Student Affairs, which allows me to meet and interact with a variety of Carroll students. Also, I am currently working with my adviser to find internships that will help me succeed with my career. Not to mention, I have the time to join a variety of clubs that spark my interests. Even crazier, I am doing it all in only three years, rather than four, thanks to the Carroll3 program. Carroll has given me a variety of chances to push myself and step outside my comfort zone!

What would you say to someone considering criminal justice?

Criminal justice is not any easy major. It will force you to consider some tough subjects, and more importantly, it’ll ask you to look outside yourself and understand things you have never even thought about. But that shouldn’t scare you away! I am incredibly thankful to have a major that not only makes me happy, but also expands my perspective on society.

How has financial aid made a difference in your life?

I would not be here without scholarships and financial aid. Carroll’s immense generosity has allowed me to focus on my studies, rather than needing to work three jobs to attend school. I am incredibly thankful that Carroll has been able to help me pay for an education that I otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford.

What’s your favorite place to study on campus?

Carroll has way too many good places to study. However, if its warm, on top of Hastad Hall has the best view of campus. It is almost too easy to get distracted by the scenery.
Learn more about the Criminal Justice program

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