MARIETTA, OH (September 12, 2017)--There are those who see danger and immediately run away. Then there are people like the Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) September Student of the Month Jessica Knick who couldn’t imagine running in any direction except toward the problem.
Knick is a Criminal Justice-Law Enforcement major. It’s a career path she’s wanted to pursue since she was very young. “My entire life I’ve wanted to be in law enforcement,” she said. “My father was a state trooper in the area. The respect he gained from the community made me want to gain the same respect and help the community.”
A former corrections officer at St. Mary’s Prison and the Lorrie Yeager Jr. Juvenile Center, Knick originally planned to become a police officer but had to face the harsh reality, after witnessing a gruesome car accident, that a career in law enforcement isn’t always pleasant. “I wanted to be in law enforcement, but I didn’t want to see that first hand,” she confessed.
Despite not wanting to see death, she describes herself as someone who, in the face of adversity, runs toward trouble. “I don’t know if it’s the thrill of it, or if I feel like I need to protect people.”
Stephanie Harlow, WSCO Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, recognizes Knick’s aptitude in the classroom. “Jessica is a hardworking student who has gone above and beyond expectations,” said. “She is truly dedicated to learning and excelling in the field of law enforcement.”
Following her December graduation, Knick is undecided about her future. She’s currently weighing her options to further her education or go directly into a law enforcement career as a case manager.
For more than 45 years, Washington State College of Ohio has provided residents of the Mid-Ohio Valley the opportunity to realize dreams, to enhance skills, and to broaden understanding. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult student looking to move your life in a new direction, Washington State has the classes to suit your needs. For more information about Washington State College of Ohio, visit www.wscc.edu or call 740.374.8716.
