Master of Science in Criminology
Assistant Professor of Instruction
Dallas, TX
What do you do?
I am an Assistant Professor of Instruction, here at the University of Texas at Dallas within the Criminology and Criminal Justice department. I graduated with a Master of Science in Criminology from UTD in 2016, and a Ph.D. from UT Arlington. Since graduation, I found and followed my passion for teaching and research.
The main focus of my research is based on examining active offenders and their decision making process to commit crime. Society often questions why an individual decides to commit a crime, and more specifically why that person selected a specific location or how they got involved in that particular type of crime. These answers could be found by asking the offenders to analyze their motivations and justifications in deciding to commit crime. Therefore, in order to complete this task, I go out to the field to conduct interviews with active offenders who are involved in various types of criminal activity.
I am greatly appreciative for the opportunity to share with students my lifetime’s worth of experience working in schools, non-profits, and state agencies. Prior to becoming a professor, I started out working with elementary kids in non-profits, and then worked with middle and high school youth to provide them tools to overcome barriers. It was during my work as a practioner when I decided that I needed to earn my Ph.D. so I could share what I have learned in the field with the next generation. I am truly passionate and greatly enjoy being able to show others how the criminal justice field touches so many facets of our communities.
Truth be told, years ago when I was playing dodgeball with youth or when I was counseling a gang member, I never thought that I would be a professor. Early on in my career, I was happy simply seeing a youth pass a test or complete their probation. Now, I am thrilled to see my students graduate college and go on to start their career.
How has your EPPS education informed your work?
During my time at UT Dallas, I was able to hone in on my research interests and develop valuable research skills. Having faculty that are actively doing research and publishing in the field gave me the opportunity to not only collaborate with faculty to publish, but more importantly, helped shaped my research agenda. Being part of the department also allowed me the opportunity to attend and present my research at national conferences, provided me the opportunity to learn the latest research from the CJ field, and connected me with other scholars whose work has further inspired my own.
What value has your EPPS degree and your time in EPPS and at UT Dallas brought to your life and/or your work?
The decision to attend UTD and the criminology department was one of the best decisions I have made so far. It was one of the best environments I have been privy to. The classes are built to introduce different topics with varying ways in order to help the student decide their direction in building a career in criminal justice. While I was a student at UTD, the professors were able to help me decide my research focus and career goals and took the time to help guide me in understanding difficult concepts. Those interactions prepared me for the way I guide my students in chasing their own career paths.
The EPPS education in the Criminology department serves as the foundation for my research, teaching, as well as for educating my EPPS students. I firmly believe that my degree in Criminology from UTD has thoroughly prepared me for the present and future challenges that will be presented in academia. Earning a criminology degree within EPPS has provided many opportunities and I am excited for the future.
What advice would you give current and future EPPS students?
I would advise future EPPS students to: (1) get involved not only in university events, but also within the department, for example, joining a student group; (2) make sure to get to know your peers and your professors – the professors want to see you succeed; (3) do not be afraid to seek help in any capacity, the professors and the university have a wealth of knowledge to help you along the way; and lastly (4) enjoy your college experience!