Emma Shepherd
Criminology and Sociology majors, Psychology minor
Erie, Colorado

What are you doing post-graduation?
I am attending Indiana University McKinney School of Law to get my master’s in Jurisprudence while working for the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.

How did Butler support you in pursuing graduate school?
Given that Butler requires an internship to graduate, I decided to intern with the Prosecutor’s office last fall. I was unsure on what I wanted to do, and my advisor told me that past students had enjoyed these internships. I applied shortly after and have had remarkable experiences that have influenced my decision to get my master’s in Jurisprudence.

How did Butler prepare you for this next chapter in your life?
Butler is the sole reason I have chosen to stay in Indy and go to graduate school. I never would have considered taking the law route if it had not been for my professors in the Criminology and Sociology department. The Department’s curriculum allowed me to recognize my interest in law and realize that I want to place my efforts toward improving the criminal justice system.

What are your long-term career goals?
My long-term career goal is to use my academic endeavors and experience to support the community and improve other’s quality of life. I would support my community by helping provide resources and support to those in need.

What are you going to miss most about your time at Butler?
I think what I will miss most about my time at Butler are the people that I have met these past four years. Butler has given me the opportunity to meet so many unique and amazing people, and I am very thankful for it.

What advice would you give a first-year student as you reflect on your time at Butler?
I advise first-year students to get out of their comfort zone and get to know different people around campus. I met some of the most incredible people during my time at Butler my junior and senior year. I think sometimes we tend to close ourselves off from meeting people early in the college process, but it’s important to remember that there are always more people to meet and more things to experience. Although it takes time to adjust to new surroundings, opening yourself up to new people and opportunities can help with the adjustment into college.