I plan to use my degrees in psychology and criminal justice, along with my own life experiences, to create a career focused on advocating for victims of domestic violence and improving the systems that are meant to protect and support them. Growing up, I saw how deeply intimate partner violence can affect not just the individuals directly involved but their families, children, and communities as well. These experiences left a lasting impression on me and played a big part in why I chose to study psychology and criminal justice. From the criminal justice side, I have understood how the legal system works when protecting survivors, nd where it falls short. I’ve learned about restraining orders, mandatory reporting laws, and victim services. Still, I’ve also seen how difficult it can be for survivors to access those resources, especially when fear, financial dependence, or emotional trauma stand in the way. My psychology studies have added an entirely different layer to that understanding. I've learned how trauma impacts the brain, how cycles of abuse develop and persist, and why survivors sometimes struggle to leave abusive situations even when they want to. Understanding these issues' psychological and legal sides allows me to see the whole picture and approach these challenges with empathy and strategy. My goal is to work directly with victims and survivors as either a victim advocate, a counselor, or someone who helps shape public policy around domestic violence prevention and response. I want to help build trauma-informed systems that don’t re-traumatize individuals but offer safety, support, and real options. Too often, survivors are asked to navigate complex systems independently, with limited understanding of what’s available or how to protect themselves. I want to be someone who stands beside them, listens, informs, and empowers. In addition to one-on-one advocacy, I hope to raise awareness in the broader community. Education is a powerful tool for change. If we can teach young people about healthy relationships, boundaries, consent, and emotional intelligence early on, we can help prevent abuse before it starts. My background in psychology will help me communicate these ideas in ways that are accessible and meaningful, and my criminal justice training will allow me to speak to the legal and social consequences of ignoring these problems. Ultimately, combining my academic training with my personal experiences makes me uniquely positioned to make a real difference. I want to be someone who helps others feel seen, heard, and protected—and who works to build a more just and compassionate world for survivors of violence and trauma.

As a student pursuing a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology at American International College, I am deeply committed to building a career that safeguards communities, protects businesses, and supports individuals through effective and ethical practices. The retail Loss Prevention and Safety field aligns closely with my academic interests and professional goals, and I am eager to contribute to a sector that combines public safety, corporate responsibility, and crime prevention in impactful ways. I have remained focused, determined, and proactive throughout my college journey. I earned a spot on the Dean’s List and have balanced rigorous coursework with the responsibilities of being a student-athlete. My dedication to academics is driven by a genuine passion for understanding criminal behavior, the justice system, and how psychological principles can improve safety, accountability, and rehabilitation. My studies have given me the tools to think critically, act ethically, and prepare for a future where I can help businesses and communities become safer and more secure. My long-term career goal is to work in retail Loss Prevention and eventually lead initiatives beyond theft prevention, including employee training, emergency preparedness, and mental health awareness within corporate settings. I believe that safety and security must be addressed holistically, protecting assets while also supporting the well-being of employees and customers. What excites me most about this field is its dynamic nature. While working with law enforcement to develop internal policies, LP professionals are on the frontlines of protection and prevention. I want to be part of that. Outside the classroom, I’ve made it a priority to give back. I’ve volunteered with local youth programs, participated in community clean-ups, and participated in service opportunities through my college and athletic teams. Giving back to the community is a value I carry with pride—whether it’s helping younger students navigate school or providing support to those in need. I also come from a background where I’ve seen firsthand how crime and safety issues affect neighborhoods and families, and this has only strengthened my commitment to being part of the solution. Financially, this scholarship would lift a significant burden. As a full-time student managing tuition, textbooks, and living expenses, I’ve had to be resourceful and budget-conscious throughout my academic career. This support would allow me to stay focused on my studies, pursue internships or certifications relevant to LP and safety, and continue working toward my goal without being held back by financial stress. I deserve this scholarship because I bring a unique blend of academic discipline, real-world awareness, and unwavering commitment to this field. What sets me apart is my ability to connect theory to practice, my empathy for people from all walks of life, and my drive to create systems that are reactive, proactive, and just. I’ve faced personal hardships—including the loss of mentors and family health struggles—and each experience has strengthened my resolve to impact wherever I go positively. The Gus Downing Retail Loss Prevention & Safety Scholarship represents more than financial aid—it means a belief in the next generation of safety leaders. I am ready to take on that responsibility with integrity, passion, and purpose. Thank you for considering my application and supporting students committed to protecting people, businesses, and communities.

Softball has always been more than a game to me—it’s been a source of strength, growth, and connection. My experiences on the field have shaped who I am today in ways that go far beyond wins or stats. They’ve taught me about leadership, resilience, and heart. But more than anything, they’ve shown me the power of mentorship and how the right coach can change the course of your life. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to play softball at the youth and collegiate levels, including as a Division II athlete. But with that opportunity has also come a significant personal loss. I lost Ronnie Roe, my longtime travel softball coach, during my first year of college. A year later, during my sophomore season, I lost my Little League coach—another mentor who had supported me since childhood. Both losses hit me hard, not just because they were unexpected, but because these men were more than just coaches. They were family to me. Ronnie was the kind of coach who never let you settle. He challenged me constantly, believed in my potential, and taught me to compete with confidence and class. His dedication to the game and his players was unmatched. Even off the field, he was a mentor—always available for advice, encouragement, or a laugh when I needed it most. Losing him in my first year, when I was learning how to balance college athletics and academics, left me devastated. But it also reminded me to play every game with heart and to honor him with my effort, grit, and leadership. The loss of my Little League coach in my sophomore year was equally heartbreaking. He was one of the first people who introduced me to the joy of the game. His positive spirit, patience, and faith in each of his players created a foundation that still impacts how I approach life. His passing reminded me how deeply coaches can shape our character by believing in us when we’re young, teaching us life lessons through every drill, and being there through victories and defeats. These losses have profoundly influenced my goals and character. I know I want to spend my life making an impact, just like they did. While I am not pursuing a traditional career in education, my double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology reflects my desire to mentor, support, and advocate for others, especially those who feel overlooked or unsupported. I hope to work with youth and incarcerated individuals to help them realize their potential and lives, just as my coaches changed mine. On the field, I’ve learned that perseverance, discipline, and teamwork are not just qualities of a good athlete—they’re qualities of a good person. I carry those lessons with me in the classroom, my relationships, and my future career plans. I’ve also learned that leadership isn’t always about being the loudest voice—showing up, supporting your teammates, and lifting others when needed. Receiving the Brett Brakel Memorial Scholarship would be an incredible honor because I understand and share the values Coach Brakel lived by. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a coach’s influence can be. I’ve felt the heartbreak of losing that kind of mentor and made it my mission to carry their lessons forward, on and off the field.

Throughout my life, I have faced several personal obstacles that have tested my strength, resilience, and outlook on the world. These challenges—losing two beloved childhood coaches, watching my mother fight cancer, grieving the passing of my grandmother, and dealing with repeated injuries—have not only shaped who I am today but have profoundly influenced my decision to pursue a career in criminal justice and psychology. Losing my childhood coaches was one of the earliest and most painful experiences I can remember. These two individuals were more than just coaches to me—they were mentors, role models, and a source of constant encouragement. They believed in me during times I didn’t believe in myself. Their sudden absence left a void in my life, but it also sparked an early awareness of how much a caring adult can impact a young person’s life. Their memory inspires me to be that figure for others—someone who offers guidance, structure, and support, especially those who may not have it elsewhere. Shortly after that, my world was shaken again when my mother was diagnosed with cancer. Watching her fight through treatments, pain, and uncertainty while still trying to be present for her family taught me what true strength looks like. Her determination and selflessness gave me a new perspective on perseverance. It also opened my eyes to the emotional and psychological toll that health crises can take on families, something I now understand even more through my psychology courses. Her battle showed me the importance of empathy, advocacy, and compassion—qualities I carry with me in my studies and hope to bring into my future profession. Then, I experienced the loss of my grandmother, who was like a second mother to me. Her death was another emotional blow, but it also deepened my understanding of grief and resilience. She always encouraged education, kindness, and service to others. Her influence is part of why I am so committed to my teaching and passionate about helping people who are often forgotten or dismissed by society. In addition to emotional challenges, I’ve dealt with physical ones—specifically, injuries that seemed to come one after another. As a student-athlete, these injuries were incredibly frustrating and sometimes made me question my path. But they also taught me patience, determination, and how to keep going even when my goals seemed out of reach. I’ve learned how to cope with setbacks and use them as fuel to return stronger. All of these obstacles have given me a deep appreciation for mental health, justice, and community support. They’ve guided me toward my double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology, to work in a field where I can advocate for people in vulnerable situations—whether they are incarcerated, dealing with trauma, or lacking support systems. I want to help individuals find healing and hope, just as I have found strength in my challenges. These experiences have not broken me—they’ve built me. And they continue to drive my passion for making a difference in the lives of others.

My name is Julia Krijgsman, and I am pursuing a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology at American International College. As a student-athlete, volunteer, and dedicated learner, I strive to live a life of purpose rooted in service, justice, and growth. From an early age, I have been passionate about helping others and making a positive difference in the lives of those around me. Whether through my involvement in Girl Scouts, volunteering in my community, or taking on leadership roles in school, I’ve always sought opportunities that challenge me and allow me to give back. My interest in criminal justice was sparked by a desire to understand the systems that shape our society and advocate for those who are often forgotten or mistreated. As I learned more, I became particularly drawn to the intersection of mental health and incarceration. This led me to add Psychology as a second major. I believe that real, lasting reform must consider the psychological, emotional, and social needs of individuals, especially those caught in cycles of incarceration, poverty, and trauma. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by working to improve conditions in correctional facilities and advocating for the fair treatment of incarcerated individuals, particularly the elderly and those struggling with mental illness. Through my education, I hope to develop the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to policy reform, create better rehabilitation programs, and ensure that correctional healthcare services are humane and accessible. Everyone deserves a second chance, and I want to be part of the movement transforming the justice system from one focused on punishment to one centered on restoration and growth. I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because I have the drive, discipline, and heart to make a real difference. I have maintained strong academic performance, earned a place on the Dean’s List, and managed the demands of being a student-athlete and active volunteer. Balancing academics, athletics, and service has shaped my time management, communication, and leadership skills. These experiences have taught me how to persevere through challenges and stay committed to my goals. Financially, this scholarship would ease the burden of college expenses and allow me to focus more on my studies and service work. With this support, I can continue to pursue internships, community outreach, and research opportunities that will enrich my education and help me develop into a well-rounded, socially conscious professional. My vision is to be part of a future where the criminal justice system is more compassionate and effective—where people are treated with dignity, given real opportunities to change, and supported in ways that break the cycle of recidivism. I know this will take hard work, empathy, and strong advocacy, and I’m ready to rise to the challenge. Thank you for considering my application and investing in students committed to creating meaningful change.