My Goals Of Pursuing A Career In Criminal Justice

Kusala Gunatilaka

Personal Statement

Growing up in a country where girls are constantly advised to be doctors, nurses, educators, and any other profession except law enforcement motivated me even further in accomplishing just that. Even as a little girl I simply could not ignore the violence, corruption, and inequality that affected my country; I wanted to fight the violence that brought misery to many, and bring justice to those who desperately deserved it. My goals of pursuing a career in criminal justice were constantly struck down and criticized throughout the years. However, once an impossible dream became a reality when I immigrated to the United States, the land of opportunity. Though my hope was restored, living and adapting to an unfamiliar environment with no family or support proved to be yet another obstacle. Witnessing my parents struggle to adapt, feeling helpless, and confused to provide us a better life has been an immense source of inspiration that drives me to seize every opportunity as it were my last.

As I continued my

Each semester assigned with two classes, consisting of twenty-five students has provided me the opportunity to assist students with various skills ranging from communication, email etiquette, and most relevant in college, time management. As a peer mentor I’m able to serve as a role model and assist students in reaching their academic success, and this valuable and rewarding opportunity has furthered my determination and interests in working with our youth. Mentoring has allowed me to strengthen my coaching and leadership skills by working with a group of diverse students. This experience has given me new insight, and questions raised by my mentees have helped me to take a critical look at how I was leading my life and what areas I needed