Alright, so I’ve been digging into this whole forensic psychology thing at CBU, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the ride. I started off pretty clueless, just knowing that it had something to do with psychology and the law, which sounded kinda cool, right?
First off, I dove into their website to see what this program was all about. I found out that CBU offers a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology. It’s one of the few programs like it around, which got me pretty interested.
I went ahead and applied, not really knowing what to expect. They asked me a bunch of questions about why I was a good fit for the program. I talked about my interest in psychology and how I wanted to apply it to help people in the legal system. I guess they liked what I said because I got in!
Once I started the classes, it was a whole new world. I learned so much about human development, why people commit crimes, and all that psychological stuff. They even teach you about the laws and ethical issues that come up when you’re a forensic psychologist in California. It’s a lot to take in, but it’s all super important.
One of the things I really liked was how they focused on the practical side of things. We didn’t just read textbooks; we looked at real cases, and discussed how we’d apply what we learned. The details of some of the cases were pretty intense, though. I mean, we’re talking about murder, abuse, and all sorts of heavy stuff. It definitely made me realize that this job isn’t for the faint of heart.
We also learned about interviewing people, both victims, and criminals. You have to be really careful and know what you’re doing because these interviews can have a big impact on a case. It’s not just about asking questions; it’s about understanding people’s reactions and getting to the truth. I practiced active listening and learned how to be non-judgmental. Those counselling skills are not just for therapy sessions.
After all that studying and practicing, I feel like I’m finally getting the hang of it. I managed to complete all the coursework, even the stuff that seemed impossible at first. I had to submit papers, give presentations, and take a bunch of tests. It was tough, but I pushed through.
What I Learned
- Understanding People: I got a much better grasp of why people do what they do, especially when it comes to crime.
- Laws and Ethics: There’s a whole lot of rules and ethical stuff you gotta know if you want to work in this field.
- Interview Skills: Talking to people in a way that’s helpful and respectful is key.
- It’s Tough: This work isn’t easy. You’re dealing with some really difficult situations and people.
So yeah, that’s my journey into forensic psychology at CBU so far. It’s been challenging, eye-opening, and honestly, pretty rewarding. I feel like I’m on the right path, and I’m excited to see where it takes me. I hope sharing this helps some of you who might be thinking about this field. It’s a lot of work, but if you’re passionate about it, it’s definitely worth it.
