user profile avatar

Joshua Ross

905

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

I'm a passionate baseball player with a drive for success both on and off the field. Currently pursuing a degree in criminal justice, I'm determined to make a difference in the world and make my mark in the justice system. As a baseball player, I thrive under pressure and understand the importance of teamwork, discipline, and dedication. These skills have not only made me a successful athlete, but they have also translated into my academic pursuits. I'm constantly pushing myself to be the best version of myself, both as a player and a student. My love for baseball started at a young age, and it has been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life. It has taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and resilience, qualities that I carry with me in everything I do. With my passion for baseball and my commitment to making a difference in the world of criminal justice, I'm confident that I have what it takes to succeed in whatever I put my mind to. I'm excited to see what the future holds and to continue chasing my dreams with courage and determination. I can’t wait to start in the fall at Pennsylvania State University DuBois Campus as a Criminal Justice Student and an Athlete.

Education

Fremont Ross High School

High School
2018 - 2023

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Criminology
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Law Enforcement

    • Dream career goals:

      Sports

      Baseball

      Varsity
      2019 – Present5 years

      Awards

      • lettered in both my junior and senior year. Starting fall 2023, as a pitcher at Penn State University in DuBois Campus in Dubois, Pennsylvania.

      Arts

      • Fremont Ross High School

        Photography
        My Photo was choosen to go to State.
        2020 – Present

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Bristol 163 Port Clinton Ohio, Victory Kitchen Sandusky Ohio — Labor positions in both locations
        2017 – Present

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Paschal Security Systems Criminal Justice Scholarship
      A degree in criminal justice can open up a multitude of career paths, but for me, the ultimate goal is to use my knowledge and skills to help those in the community who are in need. There are numerous ways to make a difference in the criminal justice system and contribute to the welfare of society. In this essay, I will outline my plan to utilize my criminal justice degree to benefit the community. Firstly, I plan to use my degree to become a probation officer. Probation officers are responsible for supervising offenders who have been released from prison and are serving a probationary period. My goal as a probation officer is not only to monitor the behavior of the offenders but also to assist them in making positive changes in their lives. This includes helping them secure employment, providing educational opportunities, and connecting them with community resources such as substance abuse treatment programs and mental health services. By doing so, I hope to reduce recidivism rates and help offenders become productive members of society. Secondly, I plan to volunteer with community organizations that provide support services to victims of crime. As a criminal justice professional, I understand the importance of victim advocacy and the role it plays in the healing process. Whether it is providing emotional support, helping with legal procedures, or connecting victims with resources, victim advocates are critical in ensuring that victims receive the help they need. By volunteering my time and expertise with these organizations, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have been impacted by crime. Thirdly, I plan to work with local law enforcement agencies to improve community policing efforts. Community policing is a philosophy that emphasizes collaboration between law enforcement and the community to solve problems and prevent crime. As a criminal justice professional, I understand the importance of building trust and relationships between law enforcement and the community they serve. By working with local law enforcement agencies, I hope to promote community engagement and provide a voice for those who feel underserved or marginalized. Fourthly, I plan to advocate for criminal justice reform. The criminal justice system is far from perfect and is plagued with issues such as over-incarceration, racial disparities, and inadequate mental health services. As a criminal justice professional, I believe it is my responsibility to use my knowledge and skills to advocate for change. This includes supporting initiatives such as restorative justice, reducing mandatory minimum sentences, and increasing access to mental health services. By advocating for criminal justice reform, I hope to create a more equitable and just system for all. Lastly, I plan to mentor and educate the next generation of criminal justice professionals. As someone who has benefited from the guidance and mentorship of others, I understand the importance of giving back. By sharing my knowledge and experience with aspiring criminal justice professionals, I hope to inspire and guide the next generation to make a positive impact in their communities. In conclusion, my degree in criminal justice is not just a means to a career, but a vehicle to make a difference in the lives of those in the community who are in need. By utilizing my skills and expertise as a probation officer, victim advocate, community policing advocate, criminal justice reformer, and mentor, I hope to contribute to the betterment of society. The criminal justice system is far from perfect, but by working together, we can make a difference and create a more just and equitable society for all.
      I Can Do Anything Scholarship
      My future self is a highly respected criminal justice professional making a meaningful impact in the field, with a fulfilling and successful career that brings positive change to the community.
      Grace Lynn Ross Memorial Scholarship
      I’m majoring in criminal justice because of my personal experiences with addiction and incarceration. My cousin was a drug addict who went to prison, but through the help of law enforcement and rehabilitation programs, he was able to turn his life around. Witnessing this transformation was life changing for both my cousin and my family, and it has inspired me to pursue a career in criminal justice so that I can help others who are struggling with addiction and facing legal consequences. Growing up, my cousin and I were very close. We spent a lot of time together, and I looked up to him as a role model. However, as we got older, I began to notice that he was changing. He started hanging out with a different crowd and getting into trouble. Eventually, he became addicted to drugs, and his behavior became unpredictable. It was heartbreaking to watch him struggle, and I felt helpless because I didn't know how to help him. One day, my cousin was arrested for drug possession and theft sent to prison. I remember feeling devastated that he was going to be locked up for a long time, but I also felt relieved that he was finally going to get the help he needed. While he was in prison, my family and I visited him regularly. It was difficult to see, but he seemed to be doing better. He was attending rehabilitation programs and working on getting clean and sober. When my cousin was released from prison, I was nervous about how he would adjust to life on the outside. However, he surprised me and everyone else in our family by making a complete turnaround. He got a job, reconnected with old friends who were positive influences, and stayed committed to sobriety. It was amazing to see him become the person he had always been before his addiction took over. Through my cousin's experience, I saw firsthand how drugs can alter a person's mind and lead them to do things they wouldn't normally do. I saw how law enforcement and rehabilitation programs can make a positive difference in someone's life. Without the intervention of the criminal justice system, my cousin may never have gotten the help he needed to turn his life around. My cousin's experience inspired me to pursue a career in criminal justice. I want to be able to help others who are struggling with addiction and facing legal consequences. I believe that everyone deserves a second chance, and I want to work towards creating a justice system that emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment. I hope to be able to make a difference in people's lives the way that law enforcement and rehabilitation programs made difference in my cousin's life. My cousin's transformation has taught me the value of empathy and compassion. I believe that it's important to approach every situation with an open mind and a willingness to listen. People who are struggling with addiction or facing legal consequences are often stigmatized and marginalized by society. In conclusion, my personal experiences with addiction and incarceration have inspired me to pursue a career in criminal justice. Through my cousin's transformation, I saw firsthand the positive impact that law enforcement and rehabilitation programs can have on someone's life. I hope to be able to make a difference in people's lives by working towards a justice system that emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment. I believe that everyone deserves a second chance, and I want to be a part of creating a society that supports and empowers those who are struggling with addiction and facing legal consequences.
      Taylor Swift ‘1989’ Fan Scholarship
      Taylor Swift's album "1989" is a masterpiece that captivated listeners worldwide when it was released in 2014. The album is named after the year of Taylor Swift's birth, and it represents a departure from her country roots, a pop sound that would propel her to greater heights. One of the most popular songs from "1989" is "Shake It Off." This upbeat track is a celebration of self-confidence and resilience in the face of criticism and adversity. The song's catchy hook and infectious beat make it good. Another standout track from the album is "Blank Space." This song is a take on Taylor Swift's public image as a serial dater, with lyrics that poke fun at her being perceived for dating famous men. The song's upbeat melody and playful lyrics make it a fan favorite. "Bad Blood" is another popular song from "1989." This track features a catchy chorus and a guest verse from rapper Kendrick Lamar, adding a new dimension to Taylor Swift's sound. The song's lyrics are an indictment of a former friend who betrayed Taylor Swift, making it a cathartic anthem for anyone who has ever been wronged. "Wildest Dreams" is a dreamy ballad that showcases Taylor Swift's vocal range and emotional depth. The song's production and poetic lyrics create a cinematic atmosphere, making it a popular choice for romantic moments. "My favorite song on Taylor Swift's album '1989' is 'Style.' The song is a mid-tempo track that features a pulsating beat and shimmering synths. The lyrics describe a relationship that is passionate but tumultuous, with Taylor Swift singing about a lover who is both irresistible and dangerous. The song's chorus is incredibly catchy, with Taylor Swift repeating the phrase "You got that James Dean daydream look in your eye" over and over. This line is a nod to the iconic actor and cultural icon, James Dean, and it adds a layer of nostalgia and romance to the song. What I love about 'Style' is its ability to capture the intensity and excitement of a new relationship. Taylor Swift's vocals are passionate and raw, conveying the emotional rollercoaster of falling in love with someone who may not be good for you. The song's production is also top-notch, with its mix of electronic and acoustic instrumentation creating a sound that is both modern and timeless. Another reason why 'Style' is my favorite song from '1989' is its music video. The video features Taylor Swift in a variety of glamorous outfits, with the camera focusing on her lips, eyes, and hair. The video's visuals are stunning, and they perfectly capture the song's aesthetic of old Hollywood glamour meets modern pop sensibility. In conclusion, Taylor Swift's album "1989" is a pop masterpiece that features some of her best work to date. While all the songs on the album are worthy of praise, my personal favorite is "Style." The song's pulsating beat, poetic lyrics, and passionate vocals create a sound that is both thrilling and romantic, capturing the essence of a new relationship. Whether you're a die-hard Taylor Swift fan or just a casual listener, "1989" is an album that you won't want to miss.
      Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
      As a baseball player, Criminal Justice major, and scare actor at a haunted house who loves to hunt and fish, I possess a unique set of attributes that make me stand out from my peers. My interests and hobbies may not be conventional, but they reveal a depth of character and a willingness to embrace adventure that will undoubtedly serve me well in my future endeavors. As a baseball player, I possess a strong sense of discipline and teamwork. Baseball is a sport that requires mental focus and physical agility, and it demands a level of commitment that few other activities can match. By participating in this sport, I have honed my skills as a leader and a team player, and I have developed a work ethic that will serve me well in whatever career I choose. Interest in criminal justice reveals a desire to serve my community and uphold the law. The criminal justice field is a challenging and rewarding one, and it requires individuals who are dedicated to upholding justice and protecting the public. As a criminal justice major, I’m undoubtedly learning the skills and knowledge necessary to become a valuable asset in this field, and I’m driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. My passion for scare acting at a haunted house reveals a willingness to embrace creativity and challenge myself in unconventional ways. Many people might view this activity as strange or unusual, but it takes a great deal of courage and creativity to become a skilled scare actor. By dressing up and scaring people for fun, I’m expressing my unique personality and showcasing my ability to think outside the box. Finally, I love hunting and fishing revealing a connection to the natural world and a willingness to engage in activities that many might find challenging or uncomfortable. Hunting and fishing require patience, skill, and an understanding of the environment, and by participating in these activities, I’m demonstrating my ability to adapt to new situations and push myself beyond my comfort zone. Taken together, these attributes reveal a complex and multi-faceted individual who is not afraid to take risks and pursue my passions. Whether I choose to pursue a career in criminal justice, continue playing baseball, or explore other avenues, my unique set of skills and interests will undoubtedly serve me well. As I embark on my journey, it is important to remember that the things that make me unique are also the things that make me special. I’m not afraid to embrace my individuality and pursue my passions, even if others do not understand or appreciate them. My willingness to take risks and pursue my dreams will set me apart from the crowd and make me a valuable member of any team or community. In conclusion, my attributes as a baseball player, Criminal Justice major, scare actor at a haunted house who loves to hunt and fish make me a unique individual with a wide range of skills and talents. By embracing my individuality and pursuing my passions, I’m setting myself up for success and making a difference in the world. Whether I choose to work in public service or pursue other avenues, my unique set of attributes will undoubtedly serve me well and help me achieve my goals.
      Richard Neumann Scholarship
      One of the most significant problems I have faced in my life is forgetfulness. Whether it's forgetting important dates, appointments, or even where I left my keys, it has caused me a great deal of stress and anxiety. This problem is not unique to me, as forgetfulness affects many people in their daily lives. However, I believe that I have found a solution that could help not only myself but also others who struggle with forgetfulness. The solution that I have created is a smart reminder system that utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide personalized reminders to individuals. The system would consist of a mobile app and a smart speaker device that would work together to provide a seamless experience. The mobile app would allow users to input important information, such as appointments, deadlines, and tasks, into the system. The app would also have a feature that allows users to set reminders based on location. For example, if a user enters a grocery store, the app would remind them of the items they need to purchase. The smart speaker device would be the central hub of the reminder system. It would be equipped with a microphone and speakers and would be able to connect to the internet. The device would also have a camera that would be used for facial recognition. When a user enters the room, the device would recognize their face and provide personalized reminders. For example, if the user has a meeting scheduled for 3 pm, the device would remind them at 2:45 pm by saying "Hey, don't forget about your meeting at 3 pm." The device would also be able to provide reminders based on the user's location. For example, if the user is about to leave the house and has forgotten their keys, the device would remind them by saying "Hey, don't forget your keys." To ensure that the system is effective, it would utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to adapt to the user's behavior over time. For example, if the user frequently ignores reminders for a particular task, the system would learn this behavior and adjust the frequency or timing of reminders. The system would also be able to learn the user's preferences and adjust the tone and style of reminders accordingly. For example, if the user responds better to friendly reminders, the system would provide reminders in a friendly tone. To ensure that the system is secure and respects the user's privacy, it would utilize end-to-end encryption and user authentication. The facial recognition feature would only be used for personalized reminders and would not be used for any other purpose. The system would also have a feature that allows users to delete their data at any time. To bring this system to life, I would need a team of developers and engineers to develop the mobile app, smart speaker device, and backend systems. I would also need to acquire hardware components such as microphones, speakers, cameras, and processors. Additionally, I would need to invest in cloud computing resources to support the machine learning algorithms. The cost of developing and launching such a system would be significant, but I believe that the benefits it would provide to users would be well worth it. Not only would it help individuals like myself who struggle with forgetfulness, but it could also be useful for individuals with cognitive impairments or disabilities. The system could also be useful in professional settings, such as in healthcare or finance, where the ability to remember important information is critical.
      McClendon Leadership Award
      Leadership is a critical aspect in my college major criminal justice. It involves the ability to guide, direct and motivate individuals and organizations towards achieving their goals. Leaders in the criminal justice field must be able to make difficult decisions, manage resources and personnel, and uphold ethical standards. In the criminal justice field, leadership takes on many forms. Police chiefs, judges, attorneys, and corrections officers are just a few examples of individuals who play leadership roles. Each of these roles requires different skill sets, but all require the ability to communicate effectively, make difficult decisions, and manage resources and personnel. Effective leaders in the criminal justice field must have strong communication skills. They must be able to communicate their expectations clearly and effectively to their teams. They must be able to communicate with the public, including victims, witnesses, and members of the community. Communication is critical in maintaining public trust and ensuring that justice is administered fairly. Leaders in the criminal justice field must also be able to make difficult decisions. They must be able to weigh the competing demands of public safety, due process, and individual rights. They must be able to assess risks and make decisions quickly in high-pressure situations. Effective leaders must also be able to adapt to changing circumstances, including new laws, emerging technologies, and evolving social norms. Another critical attribute of effective leaders in the criminal justice field is the ability to manage resources and personnel. Leaders must be able to allocate resources effectively to achieve their goals. They must also be able to manage personnel, including recruiting, training, and retaining staff. Effective leaders must also be able to foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration among their teams. Leaders in the criminal justice field must also uphold ethical standards. They must model integrity and honesty in their actions and decisions. They must also ensure that their teams uphold these same standards. Effective leaders must be able to balance the competing demands of public safety, due process, and individual rights while maintaining the highest ethical standards. The importance of leadership in the criminal justice field cannot be overstated. Effective leadership is essential for maintaining public safety and administering justice. Leaders must be able to inspire and motivate their teams to work together towards a common goal of promoting justice and safety for all members of society. Leadership is particularly critical in the law enforcement sector. Police chiefs must be able to lead their departments in maintaining order, investigating crimes, and protecting the public. Effective leadership can help prevent excessive use of force and ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions. Good leadership in this area can also help build trust between the police and the communities they serve. Judges also play a critical leadership role in the criminal justice system. They must be able to make difficult decisions in individual cases while ensuring that justice is administered fairly and impartially. Effective judges must also be able to manage their courtrooms, including setting schedules, making rulings, and overseeing legal proceedings. Effective leaders in this field must have strong communication skills, be able to make difficult decisions, manage resources and personnel, and uphold ethical standards. The importance of leadership in maintaining public safety and administering justice cannot be overstated. Leaders in the criminal justice field must be able to balance the competing demands of public safety, due process, and individual rights while maintaining the highest ethical standards. This is what Leadership means to me and why it’s so important.
      James Allen Crosby & William Edward Huff Scholarship
      I’m majoring in criminal justice because of my personal experiences with addiction and incarceration. My cousin was a drug addict who went to prison, but through the help of law enforcement and rehabilitation programs, he was able to turn his life around. Witnessing this transformation was life-changing for both my cousin and my family, and it has inspired me to pursue a career in criminal justice so that I can help others who are struggling with addiction and facing legal consequences. Growing up, my cousin and I were close. We spent a lot of time fishing together. I looked up to him as a role model. As we got older, I began to notice that he was changing. He started hanging out with a different crowd and getting into trouble. Eventually, he became addicted to drugs. It was heartbreaking to watch him struggle. I didn't know how to help him. My cousin was arrested for theft and drugs and was sent to prison. I remember feeling devastated he was going to be locked up for a long time. I also felt relieved that he was finally going to get the help he needed. While he was in prison, my family and I visited him regularly. It was difficult to see him behind bars, but he seemed to be doing better. He was attending rehabilitation programs and working on getting sober. When my cousin was released from prison, I was nervous about how he would adjust to life on the outside. However, he surprised me and everyone else in our family by making a complete turnaround. He got a job, reconnected with old friends who were positive influences, and stayed committed to his sobriety. It was amazing to see him become the person he had always been before his addiction took over. Through my cousin's experience, I saw firsthand how drugs can alter a person's mind and lead them to do things they wouldn't normally do. I also saw how law enforcement and rehabilitation programs can make a positive difference in someone's life. Without the intervention of the criminal justice system, my cousin may never have gotten the help he needed to turn his life around. My cousin's experience inspired me to pursue a career in criminal justice. I want to be able to help others who are struggling with addiction and facing legal consequences. I believe that everyone deserves a second chance, and I want to work towards creating a justice system that emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment. I hope to be able to make a difference in people's lives the way that law enforcement and rehabilitation programs made a difference in my cousin's life. My cousin's transformation has taught me the value of empathy and compassion. I believe that it's important to approach every situation with an open mind and a willingness to listen. People who are struggling with addiction or facing legal consequences are often stigmatized and marginalized by society. I believe that everyone has the capacity for change and growth, and it's our job as members of society to support them in their journey towards a better life. My experiences with addiction and incarceration have inspired me to pursue a career in criminal justice. Through my cousin's transformation, I saw firsthand the positive impact of law enforcement and rehabilitation programs. I hope to be able to make a difference in people's lives by working towards a justice system that emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment. I want to be a part of creating a society that supports and empowers those who are struggling with addiction and facing legal consequences.
      Operation 11 Tyler Schaeffer Memorial Scholarship
      Winner
      A degree in criminal justice can open up a multitude of career paths, but for me, the ultimate goal is to use my knowledge and skills to help those in the community who are in need. There are numerous ways to make a difference in the criminal justice system and contribute to the welfare of society. In this essay, I will outline my plan to utilize my criminal justice degree to benefit the community. Firstly, I plan to use my degree to become a probation officer. Probation officers are responsible for supervising offenders who have been released from prison and are serving a probationary period. My goal as a probation officer is not only to monitor the behavior of the offenders but also to assist them in making positive changes in their lives. This includes helping them secure employment, providing educational opportunities, and connecting them with community resources such as substance abuse treatment programs and mental health services. By doing so, I hope to reduce recidivism rates and help offenders become productive members of society. Secondly, I plan to volunteer with community organizations that provide support services to victims of crime. As a criminal justice professional, I understand the importance of victim advocacy and the role it plays in the healing process. Whether it is providing emotional support, helping with legal procedures, or connecting victims with resources, victim advocates are critical in ensuring that victims receive the help they need. By volunteering my time and expertise with these organizations, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have been impacted by crime. Thirdly, I plan to work with local law enforcement agencies to improve community policing efforts. Community policing is a philosophy that emphasizes collaboration between law enforcement and the community to solve problems and prevent crime. As a criminal justice professional, I understand the importance of building trust and relationships between law enforcement and the community they serve. By working with local law enforcement agencies, I hope to promote community engagement and provide a voice for those who feel underserved or marginalized. Fourthly, I plan to advocate for criminal justice reform. The criminal justice system is far from perfect and is plagued with issues such as over-incarceration, racial disparities, and inadequate mental health services. As a criminal justice professional, I believe it is my responsibility to use my knowledge and skills to advocate for change. This includes supporting initiatives such as restorative justice, reducing mandatory minimum sentences, and increasing access to mental health services. By advocating for criminal justice reform, I hope to create a more equitable and just system for all. Lastly, I plan to mentor and educate the next generation of criminal justice professionals. As someone who has benefited from the guidance and mentorship of others, I understand the importance of giving back. By sharing my knowledge and experience with aspiring criminal justice professionals, I hope to inspire and guide the next generation to make a positive impact in their communities. In conclusion, my degree in criminal justice is not just a means to a career, but a vehicle to make a difference in the lives of those in the community who are in need. By utilizing my skills and expertise as a probation officer, victim advocate, community policing advocate, criminal justice reformer, and mentor, I hope to contribute to the betterment of society. The criminal justice system is far from perfect, but by working together, we can make a difference and create a more just and equitable society for all.