Graduate school application essay

Criminal Justice

Drumming my hands on the desk before me, I finally spoke. "You're right, you're absolutely right." My academic advisor patiently raised a single eyebrow. "What? You thought I would steer you wrong?"

I didn't believe her when she called me; I definitely thought she would be joking. Yet as I gazed at the piece of paper, reading for the third time the letter addressed to me, I had to admit, she had me pegged.

'Congratulations," she said with a huge grin. "You got the internship.

'I can't believe it," I finally managed, and stood up abruptly. Far less stunned than I was, my advisor had watched me blossom from a fledgling freshman into an academically accomplished senior. When in my junior year I finally realized that I was beginning to accomplish all I had set out to do, I did not feel as relaxed as some of my fellow classmates. Never had I wanted to settle for a Bachelor's Degree because I always had my mind and heart set on highly specific goals. At the same time that I look forward to graduating, I look forward even more to earning a higher degree and beginning a challenging professional career.

When I started earning my Bachelors of Science degree I knew exactly what I wanted to study. Criminal justice and criminology had fascinated me throughout my entire adolescence, no doubt partially inspired by captivating television shows and films depicting diligent detectives nabbing cocksure criminals.

As I began delving into the real world of criminal justice in college, my interest didn't wane, it only blossomed. I thrived. From sociological meta-analyses to political science theory to the psychology of deviance, I have explored as many nooks and crannies of my chosen field as possible. In addition to excelling at purely academic projects I sought out internships and research assistance positions. The combination of scholarly research with rich networking opportunities has immensely enriched my understanding of criminal justice. I have discovered areas of focus and places I would hope to specialize in. Drawn to work in the federal sector, I applied for an internship with a major federal agency. The letter I received via my academic advisor's office propelled me into a new level of success. Earning the opportunity to participate in the intern program has absolutely solidified my goals.

With proven leadership skills, I will someday ascend to a directorial position within a federal agency. I thrive in environments in which my mind is tested to its limits, when I can stretch myself and apply creative and critical thinking skills. Drawing on empirical evidence in the interrelated fields of psychology, sociology, and criminal justice, I can apply academic wisdom to real life situations. Keeping localities and our entire nation safe and secure will of course be ultimate goals of any criminal justice professional. I intend to bring integrity, ethical responsibility, and credibility into the framework of federal criminal investigations.