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Elise Patchen's Journey: Balancing Passion, Experience, and Success at UNO

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Entering college is an exciting and transformative time in a student's life, filled with new experiences, opportunities, and personal growth. Elise Patchen, a dedicated student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), has seized these opportunities, becoming an active member of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (SCCJ) community. As a freshman, Elise joined the SCCJ ambassador program, which marked her first involvement with the college outside of classes. Her passion for the criminal justice program led her to pursue an internship at Boys Town, an organization she had long admired for its commitment to helping children in need.

When asked about her motivation to join the SCCJ ambassador program, Elise reflected on her conversation with a UNO alumna who had spoken highly of her experience as an ambassador. Elise shared, "The criminal justice program has been nothing less than amazing, and the amount of support they have provided me through this undergrad journey was something I wanted to be able to share with other potential criminal justice students." Her desire to share her positive experiences with prospective students led her to take on the role of an SCCJ ambassador. This marked the beginning of her involvement with the college beyond her academic coursework, opening doors to personal growth and deeper connections within the SCCJ community.

Recognizing the importance of gaining practical experience in her field of study, Elise was motivated to pursue an internship. She acknowledged the guidance of Professor Kim Retzlaff, who played a pivotal role in encouraging her to explore internship opportunities. Elise emphasized, "If there is one aspect I could encourage current and future students to do while attending college, it is to do an internship." She further explained how internships broaden students' perspectives and reveal unexplored avenues within their field of study. Professor Retzlaff's support and dedication to finding an internship that suited Elise's schedule and interests led her to Boys Town, a renowned organization known for its commitment to supporting children.

Elise's internship at Boys Town immersed her in the organization's crisis hotline department. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, "Helping people has always been something I wanted to do, and being able to take part in their crisis hotline department has been amazing." Elise initially worked with Safe2Help Nebraska, a tip line that receives anonymous reports concerning various concerns faced by students, parents, or staff members in Nebraska schools. She then took on the role of texting counselor for YourLifeYourVoice, a text line that provides support to struggling teens and young adults. Through her internship, Elise gained invaluable insights into the intersection of mental health, the criminal justice system, and related fields, broadening her perspective and fueling her passion for advocacy.

Elise acknowledged the emotional toll of being a crisis counselor and the importance of a positive and supportive work environment. She emphasized the significance of her colleagues and supervisors at Boys Town.

The people who work within the Boys Town hotline are the biggest motivators for me to continue doing what I love, along with knowing that some callers do not have a strong support system and just need someone to talk to."

 Elise Patchen, Bachelor of Science, Criminology and Criminal Justice, May 2023

Elise highlighted the importance of open communication and relying on coping mechanisms to overcome the challenges that come with the job.

Elise's internship at Boys Town didn't just offer personal and professional growth; it led to a job offer. Her success can be attributed to her willingness to accept challenges and step out of her comfort zone. Prior research and preparation for her interview allowed her to showcase her interest and commitment to the job. Elise's openness to constructive criticism and her eagerness to take on any task thrown her way set her apart and solidified her success.

Reflecting on her journey, Elise wholeheartedly recommends internship participation to her fellow SCCJ students. The eye-opening experience and exposure to diverse opportunities can be truly transformative. She emphasizes the flexibility and support she received at Boys Town, making her internship a manageable and rewarding experience. Elise also credits Professor Retzlaff's guidance throughout the internship class, ensuring students' success and growth.

Elise has decided to continue her education by earning her master’s degree at UNO. Her decision to attend UNO for graduate school was solidified by her enrollment in the Fast Track Program. While exploring graduate school options in Colorado, Elise received an email about the fast-track program and that changed everything. Intrigued, she met with Dr. Kulig, a passionate faculty member in the criminal justice program, who fueled Elise's own enthusiasm for UNO. Encouraged further by Kristen Plowick, a recent graduate who provided valuable insights, Elise completed her application and embarked on the fast-track journey.

The Fast Track Program at UNO offers motivated undergraduate students like Elise the opportunity to complete both their bachelor's and master's degrees in an accelerated time frame. With the program allowing up to nine graduate credit hours to count towards both degrees, Elise knew it was the perfect opportunity to challenge herself and elevate her education. When she received the email confirming her acceptance into the fast-track program, Elise felt an undeniable sense of validation in choosing to continue her academic journey at UNO.

Within the program, Elise discovered an exceptional mentor in Professor Garman, whose Seminar Criminal Court System class proved to be a standout experience. Professor Garman's understanding approach, recognizing the responsibilities and commitments of her students, created a supportive and engaging learning environment. Elise was captivated by the informative nature of the class, which was thoughtfully designed to balance academic rigor with practicality. Alongside her studies, Elise will be working in a new position as a youth life coach at Radius, ensuring a safe and therapeutic residential environment for everyone.

With her passion, drive, and the invaluable education she has received at UNO, Elise Patchen is poised to become a trailblazer in the criminal justice field, empowering future generations of professionals and making a profound difference in the lives of those she serves.