Growing up, every child goes through stages of what they envision their dream job to be. For girls, there are the stereotypical answers of princess, pop star, veterinarian, teacher, this list goes on and on. Very rarely when you ask a little girl what she wants to do when she grows up will the answer be “police officer”. This idea follows girls through their entire lives and when it’s time to pick a major, not many people expect a girl to choose Criminal Justice. For decades, this idea of Criminal Justice being a “Man’s Profession” has tainted the public’s image of who can and cannot enter this field. Yes, there are more women than ever in this field, but women still face harsh prejudices and scrutiny. When I chose to major in Criminal Justice, I was unaware of just how much people would judge and question my decision. Here are some things that I, as well as other women I know who major in this, have heard others say.
1. Oh...good for you!
Sure, people will say that but their eyes tell a different story. It goes a little something like this: Wow I can’t believe that’s what she chose to go to school for. She’s in for a rude awakening when she begins her classes. I love my classes and find them beyond interesting, but of course, no one bothers to ask about that.
2. Wow...what are you planning on doing with that?
Do you really want me to explain my entire life’s plan to you right now?
3. You know its nothing like the crime shows on TV right?
*sigh* Yes, I am fully aware my life will not become one continuous episode of “Law and Order SVU” as soon as I get a job. Although…would it really be that bad to be a real life Olivia Benson? I think not!
4.Oh! So you want to go into Social Work?
Ummmm sorry no, I want to be a cop. Social work is in no way a bad profession, it’s just not the one for me.
5. So you know that the FBI is only really looking for accountants right?
Actually there are many jobs within the FBI that have nothing to do with math. People with all types of degrees are able to get jobs with the FBI and a Crim degree is no exception. Which is a good thing because I cannot do math to save my life.
6. You still want to do that? Even though being a police officer is so dangerous nowadays?
Yes, but thanks for the reminder. It’s not like I knew the job was dangerous beforehand or anything. I want to do this job to help others and to make society safer, which can involve being put in dangerous situations.
7. You know the FBI is really difficult to get into and most people don't make it.
Isn’t that the same deal with any big time organization? Thanks for the concern, but it doesn’t change my mind. I’m going to try my hardest and go from there.
8. Are you sure you can handle that type of work?
Is anyone every truly sure of anything before they try it? I love what I’m studying and I am so passionate about it, which means I’m willing to put myself out there and see what happens. If I don’t like it, I’ll figure it out. But for now, yes I am sure I can handle it.
