Meet Our Graduate Students: Janine Namoro

I’m currently a first-year MA student in criminology, with a particular interest in studying topics related to policing, women in law enforcement, and intersectionality within the field. What inspires me to learn and continue in criminology is the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change within the criminal justice system. I’m motivated by the potential to explore complex issues such as gendered experiences in policing and to develop evidence-based solutions that can improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in law enforcement. I’m passionate about using research to understand these issues more deeply and to advocate for policies and practices that can lead to a more just and equitable society.

Why did you decide to pursue the MA program?

I decided to pursue the MA program because of my passion for research. As an undergraduate, I found myself particularly drawn to research methods courses, especially the ones that involved designing research proposals on meaningful topics. I enjoyed the creative challenge of envisioning how I might conduct these studies in a "perfect" world, with the hope that one day I could bring these ideas to life. Pursuing an MA felt like the natural next step to actualize those early research aspirations and delve deeper into topics I care about. Another key factor in my decision was my positive experience in the criminology Honours Program. The program offered a glimpse into what graduate school might be like, particularly through the process of writing a thesis within two semesters. It showed me that even seemingly daunting tasks, like completing a thesis, are achievable with the right support and determination. The honours program’s goal is to help students determine whether graduate studies are the right fit for them, and for me, it confirmed that pursuing an MA was the right choice. I am glad I followed through on this goal and am now working toward realizing my academic and research ambitions.

How did you go about choosing your adviser?

I chose my adviser based on a strong alignment with my research interests. During my undergraduate studies, I took several policing courses with Dr. Simpson, which sparked my passion for topics related to policing. His expertise in these areas, as well as his engaging teaching style, played a significant role in shaping my academic interests. I also felt that Dr. Simpson would be an ideal adviser because of his familiarity with the topics I’m passionate about and his ability to provide valuable guidance on related research. His mentorship during my undergraduate courses demonstrated his deep knowledge of the field and his commitment to supporting students. This made me confident that working with him in the MA program would help me refine my research skills and successfully pursue my academic goals.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I would describe my research as an area that focuses on improving policing by studying how recruitment practices and workplace culture can become more inclusive, especially for women. I’m particularly interested in understanding the challenges women face in entering and thriving in law enforcement careers and using that knowledge to identify solutions that make the profession more equitable. I would also add that I enjoy working with quantitative data and designing research that uses experiments or measurable outcomes to test ideas and find evidence-based strategies for change. My program allows me to combine these skills with my passion for research. It’s a graduate degree in criminology where I get to explore topics I care deeply about while contributing to studies that could make a real difference in how policing is practiced and perceived.

So far, what has been the most challenging part of your MA journey, and how are you overcoming it?

The most challenging part of my MA journey was managing the heavy workload during my first semester, where I took three demanding courses. Each course came with high expectations and significant assignments, which made balancing my academic responsibilities and personal time particularly difficult.

To overcome this challenge, I leaned on the support of my cohort. Many of my peers were also navigating the same struggle, and sharing our experiences and strategies helped me feel less overwhelmed. Additionally, I developed a system of setting personal deadlines ahead of the actual due dates, which allowed me to complete my work at a high standard without last-minute stress. This approach also gave me the flexibility to manage my workload more effectively.

Equally important, I prioritized allocating time for myself to relax and recharge. Whether it was spending time with friends or simply taking a break, these moments of self-care were crucial in maintaining my focus and energy throughout the semester. By balancing preparation, support, and self-care, I was able to navigate this challenging period successfully.

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My experience as a TA for a theory course has been incredibly valuable to both my academic and professional development. While I was taking a graduate-level theory class, I was able to apply what I was learning by helping students in their own understanding of the material. This experience deepened my own knowledge, as teaching complex theories allowed me to engage with the content in new and meaningful ways. What I’ve also found is that I learn a great deal from the students themselves. During our tutorial discussions, they bring fresh perspectives and questions that often challenge me to think critically and expand my own understanding. These interactions have made me realize the importance of fostering an environment where ideas are shared and debated, not just from a teaching standpoint, but also as a way to grow intellectually. This experience has enriched my approach to research and teaching, and has been an essential part of my academic journey.

Do you have any advice for prospective students?

My advice for prospective students is to choose an area of study that you are truly passionate about. Graduate school can be demanding, and pursuing something that doesn’t genuinely interest you can make the experience feel more challenging and less rewarding. When you’re passionate about your research, it becomes easier to stay motivated, especially when the work gets tough. It’s important to find something that excites you and that you’re eager to dive into, because that enthusiasm will keep you engaged and make the journey more fulfilling.