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Julie McCarty
Associate of Science in Criminal Justice
Dealing with misfortune and adversity can affect different people in different ways. Julie McCarty, a Stonecliffe College Online student, may be a good example of how hardship can lead to positive change. (Stonecliffe College Online is an academic division of Colorado Technical University) "While working long hours in the trucking industry and driving a semi, I had an accident just outside of Denver. Thankfully, no one else was hurt, but that incident led to some very profound changes in my life. Thanks to Stonecliffe College Online, those changes are positive."
Julie was injured in the accident, but while out of work for medical reasons, she had time to reevaluate her career opportunities and redirect herself. Consequently, Julie decided to pursue a career in law enforcement because she has always wanted to be in a profession where she can help others. "I have had time to think about what I am going to do and I have always had an interest in law enforcement. I have several friends in law enforcement that are very inspirational and supportive. I have also seen the effects of domestic violence on women and I have always wanted to help others in those situations. I decided that becoming a police officer can put me in a position to do many of the positive things that I have wanted to do for a long time."
Once Julie decided to pursue a career in law enforcement, she did some research. "While my accident can be considered a strike against me, earning a degree in criminal justice can more than compensate for that. I have been told by several police officers that earning a degree in criminal justice will give me an advantage over applicants at the police academy in Denver that do not have a degree."
Julie then looked into several universities, both brick and mortar and others offering online degree programs. She chose Stonecliffe College Online for several reasons. "Of course, the convenience and flexibility of online learning is a big plus, especially when it drops to 20 degrees below zero and Denver is waist-deep in snow. But the deciding factor for me was the great support and personal attention I received from the staff at Stonecliffe College Online. Everyone I have dealt with, including Admissions Advisors, Academic Advisors, instructors and fellow students have been extremely professional, knowledgeable and helpful. I feel I am treated as an individual at Stonecliffe College Online, not as just another number."
Soon after enrolling, Julie found that Stonecliffe College Online can offer a lot more than personal attention. "I am very impressed with the course materials in the criminal justice degree program and the Virtual Campus at Stonecliffe College Online. From speaking with professionals in law enforcement, I know that the course materials are very up-to-date and relevant to the law enforcement profession. The Virtual Campus is easy to navigate and provides more than enough information to complete my course work. All the support that would be spread out in different buildings over a ground campus, such as technical support, financial aid, and career services is accessible at my fingertips around the clock. The live class sessions are interesting and exciting. It is such a great experience that I have decided to continue on and earn a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice through Colorado Tech Online! If I am accepted into the police academy, taking courses online will enable me to do both."
Julie's educational experience has had an impact on her life in many positive ways beyond that of improving her career outlook. "My husband said that he sees positive changes in me. I have more confidence, more enthusiasm, more motivation, more energy and a more positive outlook than ever before. I would recommend Stonecliffe College Online to anyone!"
Julie turned adversity into opportunity by enrolling in the criminal justice degree program offered through Stonecliffe College Online. Now instead of driving an 18-wheeler, Julie soon may be driving a police cruiser. "My advice to current students there is to make use of all the resources and support that is available. But most of all, have fun! It will pay off for you in many ways that you may not realize before enrolling."
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