As previously promised, I had indicated that there would be posts about those studying and working in the criminal justice field this month. Those who indicated interest in being featured were asked a series of questions to share about their experiences and interests. These posts are meant to highlight their work, spark interest in others, and thank them for working in what can be a difficult field. If you find yourself interested in their line of work/education and want to learn more, please contact me and I can assist you in getting your answers! *All answers are that of the interviewee*
This post focuses on Dr. Amy Shlosberg! Dr. Shlosberg is currently a professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University, my graduate alma mater!
Amy Shlosberg, Ph.D. (Associate Professor of Criminology and Chair, Department Criminology and Criminal Justice at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Co-Host of 'Direct Appeal' and 'Women & Crime'.
What is your experience/education with criminal justice? (you don't need to list the exact employer/schools, rather just discuss positions/degrees/internships/etc.).
"I am currently Department Chair and Associate Professor of Criminology at Fairleigh Dickinson University where I teach a variety of courses. I research and write in the areas of wrongful convictions, reentry and reintegration and education in prison. I also teach college courses to inmates in various correctional facilities throughout New Jersey. Lastly, I am the co-host of two podcasts: 'Direct Appeal' and 'Women and Crime'"
2. What draws you to a field related to criminal justice?
"My passion for social justice"
3.. Is there a specific area of criminal justice that interests you and/or you have a particular strength in?
"I publish in the areas of wrongful convictions mostly, but also have some expertise in reentry and reintegration."
4. What challenges do you face in your position? What do you need to better face those challenges?
"Trying to help people understand the collateral consequences of imprisonment and the fact that most people are redeemable."
5. How does working in the criminal justice field impact your personal life?
"I am very busy!"
6. What is something that people interested in working in this field should be aware of?
"It takes an emotional toll on you and you need to be able to separate yourself from the people you work with (this is referring to inmates and formerly incarcerated, not my general students)."
7. What is a course that all professionals working in this field should be recommended to take?
'Race and Crime' and 'Miscarriages of Justice'
8. What criminal cases do you hope to cover in the future either on your podcast or in your classes?
"I can't reveal my secrets! You will have to listen to find out (wink face)"
**A big thank you to Dr. Shlosberg for taking the time to answer my questions and for the work/research she does. She is no doubt widening the knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice field and preparing more educated future professionals for their roles in the field.**
A plug for her podcasts, check out both Direct Appeal Podcast and Women & Crime wherever you listen to your podcasts!
(Photo credits: FDU website Dept of Criminology Faculty page; screenshots of Direct Appeal and Women & Crime podcasts)