Monica Connors - Criminology and Psychology
Monica Studied Criminology and Psychology, and in 2010, will be studying a Masters at John Jay College in New York
The three years I was there were the best years of my life and if I could do it all over again I would
”Monica studied a joint honours degree in Criminology and Psychology.
Why study a degree in Criminology and Psychology?
I chose the degree Criminology and Psychology because I was always interested in Psychology and whilst doing my A-levels I did a module on crime and deviance and realised that I was particularly interested in criminal psychology.
The best parts of the course for me were the guest speakers, conducting your own dissertation on an area of personal interest and the court room trial experiences. And the social life along side all the work of course.
Staff and support
As I majored in Criminology, I spent a lot of my time with the Criminology department and staff members. They were all very helpful and supportive throughout my time at university. They were always there to assist with questions or any problems I had during the course. They were also great in assisting and adding to the value of my application to study an MA in Criminal Justice at John Jay College in New York.
Passion and ambition
I think being passionate about the subject helps a lot in adding to the experiences you get out of completing this course. I also feel that confidence and being out spoken are good personal qualities you need to excel in Criminology.
The student experience
Student life in Derby for me was the best life experience I have had so far. The three years I was there were the best years of my life and if I could do it all over again, I would. The people I met were great and I have made many friends for life whilst I have been here. The night life is great and many social nights are set up throughout the year for the chance for you to meet and social with other people all the time.
Balancing the studies is dependent on the individual, but the lecturers assist you in suggestions on the best ways to balance your studies. I found I coped with my studies alongside my social life pretty well. Especially in my third year.
How this course has helped my future
I feel this course has given me a lot of knowledge towards all aspects of a possible career in Criminal Justice, and I feel it has outlined particular career paths that I would be interested. The degree has also helped me get used to doing presentations and application forms, as well as personal statements and has built my confidence in meeting new people.
Thanks to the staff and support at the University of Derby, in January 2010 I will be moving to New York to study a Masters in Criminal Justice in John Jay College (Manhattan). The course is expected to last between one year and two years and once it's completed I hope to start a career in offender profiling, mainly focusing on serial homicide cases.
