A New Perspective on Criminal Justice by Janiyah

A New Perspective on Criminal Justice by Janiyah - July 2026 Scholarship Essay

One of the most challenging academic topics I have studied is criminal justice, specifically learning about the causes of crime and the different theories used to explain criminal behavior. When I first started taking criminal justice courses, I believed that crime was usually the result of someone simply making a bad decision. I thought the answers were straightforward. However, as I learned about theories such as strain theory, differential association, and social control theory, I realized that understanding crime is much more complex than I had imagined.

At first, it was difficult to keep the theories organized because many of them seemed similar. I also struggled to apply them to real-life situations instead of just memorizing definitions for exams. There were times when I became frustrated because I could not immediately determine which theory best explained a particular case. Instead of giving up, I began reviewing my notes more carefully, asking questions in class, and practicing with case studies. I challenged myself to think beyond the surface and consider how factors such as family life, education, poverty, peer influence, and community environments all affect a person’s choices.

As I became more comfortable with the material, I noticed that my way of thinking had changed. Rather than jumping to conclusions, I started evaluating situations from multiple perspectives. I learned to compare evidence, recognize bias, and support my opinions with facts instead of assumptions. These are skills that extend far beyond the classroom and have strengthened my overall critical thinking.

Studying criminal justice has also reinforced my career goals. I hope to work in the criminal justice field after graduating from North Carolina Central University, where I can make fair and informed decisions while helping others. This experience taught me that solving problems requires patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to consider different viewpoints before reaching a conclusion.

Although this topic challenged me at first, it ultimately became one of the most rewarding subjects I have studied. It taught me that true learning is not just about finding the right answer but about understanding why that answer makes sense. The critical thinking skills I developed through studying criminal justice will continue to guide me throughout college and in my future career.