91ÖÆƬ³§

What is justice studies?

The field of justice studies involves philosophical and theoretical understandings of justice, knowledge of the inner-workings and realities of laws and justice systems, and skills related to the implementation of justice. Pursuing a master’s in justice studies allows you to delve deeply into law, crime, courts, corrections, policing, drugs, terrorism, homeland security, immigration, forensics, sexual violence, juvenile justice, and more. 

Meet Emma Kostyun '26, who, after getting undergraduate degrees in journalism and criminal justice, is getting her accelerated master's degree in justice studies. Emma is a first-generation student who discovered that the key to acclimating to undergrad and grad life is finding the right community, finding purpose by being editor of the student newspaper, and taking every opportunity that comes her way.

Interview with an Accelerated Master's Justice Studies Student

Why did you decide to get an accelerated master’s degree?

I am hoping that furthering my education can put me ahead in the job market. I am also so proud to be a true first-gen master's student. I feel that’s something to brag about.

"I am a true first-gen master's student. I feel that’s something to brag about."

What have you learned from your internship?

I have learned a new avenue that I am interested in pursuing. I never imagined enjoying or exploring a career in law enforcement, but it has been a wonderful experience so far.

What are some of your favorite things to do around 91ÖÆƬ³§?

I love how close we are to the ocean. As someone who grew up too far for beach day trips, it is an absolute treat. 

"I love how close we are to the ocean. As someone who grew up too far for beach day trips, it is an absolute treat."

What is your favorite thing about 91ÖÆƬ³§?

My favorite thing about 91ÖÆƬ³§ is the breadth of opportunities. Whatever your interest, whatever your path, even if it’s something you never imagined doing, there is an opportunity to do it here. I took advantage of everything that I could, and I wish I could’ve done even more. 

"Whatever your interest, whatever you path, even if it’s something you never imagined doing, there is an opportunity to do it here."

What are your plans for after graduation?

I plan to try to find a career within law enforcement where I can find an intersection of my undergraduate majors in journalism and criminal justice. I want to manage communications and help bridge gaps that have long been broken. 

What are some of the challenges of being a first-generation student?

One of the main challenges I faced as a first-generation student was the disconnect with my parents. Calling them for advice was not as easy as it might’ve been for students who aren’t first-gen. It was often hard for us to come to an understanding on subjects such as scheduling, academics, and extracurriculars.

What advice would you give to other first-generation students?

Find a community. It is important that you surround yourself with those that will lend a helping hand to you. Even if it they aren’t first gen, they are still experiencing college for the first time, just like you. Utilize the support systems at your disposal.

"Find a community. Even if it they aren’t first gen, they are still experiencing college for the first time, just like you."

How did you receive support as a first-generation student?

In all honesty, I found support from friends and faculty. My friends helped me navigate university life. I was blessed to be an independent person already but knowing that there were people I could talk to if needed really helped me.

How did you find community on campus as a first-generation student?

I attended socials and events. I'm never afraid to speak up in class or introduce myself to someone new, so it was easy for me to seek and find a community to embed myself in.

What has it been like being editor of the student newspaper on campus?

It is a wonderful honor, while also being incredibly stressful. I love having an ear to everything on campus and being able to help further the future careers of my writers. To have published articles before getting into the field is very important and playing a big role in that is something I am proud of.