Caitlin Matekel
Arizona Department of Corrections

"During my senior year as an undergraduate student in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice I interned for the Arizona Department of Corrections at the Florence Complex. For the first month internship I was assigned to various security staff to learn the security processes of the facility and understand the day to day functions. This included conducting perimeter checks, institutional inmate counts, responding to incidences, interviewing incarcerated men, inventorying property, and many other tasks. For the rest of my internship I co-facilitated and organized a variety of programs, allowing me to work hands on with inmates and officers to learn about the complexities of the environment and the importance of programs. I was provided endless opportunities to grow as a student, individual, and future leader. Following the completion of my bachelor’s degree I continued as a volunteer and continue to facilitate the Impact of Crime on Victims Class (ICVC). As a result of this internship I have directed my graduate studies toward corrections and currently work on a research project at three state prisons. This internship created an opportunity and allowed me to discover a passion for something I otherwise may not have found."