Why I Chose My Major: Criminal Justice

About Julie  

Julie ’24/’25 grew up in Frisco, Texas, located in the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area. 

She was an active member of the HSU community through her contributions to Cowgirl athletics, the criminal justice program, and her work as a graduate teaching assistant. 

Julie played for the HSU women’s soccer team from 2021 to 2024 and joined the brand-new cycling team during its inaugural season in 2025. 

As part of the criminal justice program, she served as both president and vice president of the Criminal Justice Association, worked as a student assistant in the Criminal Justice Office, and was a graduate teaching assistant for multiple classes during the spring 2025 semester. 

The opportunity to play collegiate soccer for a strong program initially drew Julie to HSU. However, after researching the university’s criminal justice program and speaking with Dr. Karin Brown, she realized the opportunities HSU offered would be hard to find anywhere else. 

Julie didn’t always know what career she wanted to pursue. But during her senior year of high school, she became interested in law enforcement, thanks to several internships and relationships she developed with officers. 

“I knew that I could make a difference in that career field, which really sparked my interest in entering law enforcement,” she said. “I began internships and formed relationships with various types of officers, which opened my eyes to new possibilities.” 

Criminal Justice at HSU 

Julie said her experience as a student in the Criminal Justice Department exceeded her expectations. She appreciated the flexibility the program offered in course selection and credited it for both her academic success and strong friendships. 

“This kept me engaged and gave me the opportunity to learn about things that will benefit me in the long run,” she said. “On top of that, many peers shared the same interests as I did. This created strong bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime.” 

Julie credited her parents, local law enforcement mentors, and department professors for encouraging her to pursue her dream of becoming a Texas state trooper. 

“Dr. Karin Brown and Professor Josh Ward have been extremely influential during my four years here,” she said. “They constantly pour into their students and teach information that caters to their career goals. They are the heart and soul of the HSU Criminal Justice Department.” 

Future Aspirations 

Thanks to her hard work and dedication, Julie has earned a conditional job offer as a state trooper. Her goal is to work for the Texas Department of Public Safety and eventually rise to the rank of Texas Ranger. 

She wants to be remembered for her commitment to the criminal justice program and for the countless hours she and others dedicated to its success. 

Julie also hopes her friends and peers remember her as a genuine person who remained true to herself and others. 

Advice to Criminal Justice Majors 

Julie encourages current and future criminal justice majors to cherish the experience of being part of the department and to recognize the support they’ll receive. 

“Cherish it,” she said. “Each professor and peer will drive you to be the best person you can be. They will push you to pursue your dreams. Most of all, they will be there for you for the rest of your life. They’re going to be some of your biggest fans and a great support system throughout your career.” 

Click here to discover educational tracts for criminal justice at HSU.