Rising up at KUEC: In this Q&A series, outstanding students share how KU helps them prepare for, advance, or change their career.
Emily Russell began college courses while in high school, received her associates degree from Johnson County Community College, and is now pursuing her bachelor’s in Criminal Justice.
What inspired you to choose the Criminal Justice degree at the KU Edwards Campus?
The degree is available online, which is very convenient for me. And I’ve always wanted to be a police officer to help someone who’s having the worst day of their life. As a police officer, you run toward the chaos when everyone else runs away from it.
What has been the most rewarding part of your academic journey?
Seeing the dreams of my five-year-old self begin to come true. Each semester, I learn more and receive more opportunities. Whether it’s researching future jobs options, applying for scholarships, or looking into internships, I can feel my dreams coming true.
What challenges did you face as a transfer student, and how did you overcome them?
Starting in spring of 2024, I missed being part of the fall kickoff events which made adjusting to KU Edwards a little more challenging. Since Criminal Justice is a new program, you are going through the “firsts” with the faculty. This gave me the opportunity to establish closer relationships with my professors because we were going through it together. I would not change this experience for anything.
Who has had a significant impact on your experience at KU Edwards?
Susan Whitford, the Criminal Justice program director. She is ALWAYS available for students feeling challenged by coursework, struggling with personal challenges, or looking into future jobs. She never fails to show up.
What is your favorite part about activities or events at the KU Edwards Campus?
The criminal justice speaker series have been really interesting. John Calvert is a former police officer who talked about school safety and school shootings. He motivated me to continue pursuing law enforcement because I want students to feel safe at school. Ossco Bolton, a former gang leader from Kansas City, inspired me too when he talked about young people joining gangs because they crave a sense of belonging. He knows firsthand how difficult it is to get out of a gang once you’re in it. Young people need an adult in their lives to let them know they are loved.
What advice would you give to other students considering a transfer to KU Edwards Campus? Campus?
Ask for help and advocate for yourself.
What are your career goals, and how is KU Edwards helping you achieve them? Campus?
After graduation, I want to start my career in the Army Criminal Investigation Division. At a criminal justice career fair held at KUEC, I connected with Army CID members and will stay in touch with them. The Criminal Justice program does a lot of networking events, which is a great resource to help you meet your career goals.
How do you stay involved on campus or balance school with other commitments?
I showed up to every event possible, and I joined the Criminal Justice club! Each time you go to an event, you meet people who are in the same boat. Being an online student makes it easier to balance school and your personal life. It gives you more flexible and you can choose what times work best for you to do your schoolwork.
