51A Personal Statement

When I first applied to colleges, I applied under the notion that I was going to become a police officer. I was going to get my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, take the police exam, and become a detective. Over time, however, I was able to take a variety of courses that would change my life forever. One of the classes that I particularly enjoyed was Child and Elder Abuse. Having worked with children in high school, volunteering at my school and church, as well as having a case worker instructor, my interest in youth care skyrocketed. In the class, I learned about the warning signs of abuse, how to write 51A’s and the step by step process of investigating complaints. From then on, my interests began to shift.
While I enjoy the typical classroom setting, I often found myself unable to engage in conversation or ask questions as I constantly felt as though I was behind on note taking. With prerecorded lessons, interactive online settings, and a smaller cohort, I believe that I will be better prepared to provide my input and engage in strong discussions with my peers. Specifically, about the effects of programs on youth and dealing with crisis situations. As an individual in the middle of a transitionary period in her life, as I am looking to switch jobs, an online degree also allows me the flexibility to move without having to worry about transferring out of the program. One thing that I found particularly intriguing about Simmons’ program is that it provides its students the ability to choose one of four clinical specializations. While I have an interest in both Child and Family and Trauma and Interpersonal Violence, I find satisfaction knowing that my classes will be tailored to my specific needs and that when I do choose a specialization, I will be receiving a strong education based on both classroom and field experience in that