ALTOONA, Pa. — Two recent graduates of Penn State Altoona’s Criminal Justice program were awarded competitive scholarships to attend law schools this fall.
Jazzmine McCauley received a merit-based scholarship to attend Charleston School of Law.
“It’s surreal,” she said. “I was able to build my resume because of the opportunities through the Integrated Social Science Research Lab (ISSRL) and the connections I could make because of the smaller campus size at Penn State Altoona.”
McCauley additionally attributed her successes to her intrinsic motivation, family support, and mentor support from Nathan Kruis and Nicholas Rowland.
McCauley said she encourages current and future students to work hard and take advantage of the opportunities available at Penn State Altoona. She is interested in music and entertainment law. When she graduates law school, she said, she hopes to work with musicians in Nashville.
Ziwei "Will" Lin was awarded the Dean’s Merit Scholarship to attend New England Law in Boston.
“Penn State Altoona has been a wonderful experience,” said Lin. “This campus has provided me with numerous opportunities, and I have to credit the ISSRL, Dr. Kruis and Dr. Rowland for their mentorship. My robust resume is a reflection of all the things I have done at here, and law schools took notice.”
Lin said he is interested in criminal law and hopes to one day serve as a federal prosecutor.
“College is about figuring things out,” he said. “There is no complex formula to it. As long as you try and set goals, you will always be one step closer to your career. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and make meaningful friendships.”