Katrine Bertrand BA in Justice Studies (BA-JUS)
Ultimately, the Justice Degree Program gave me the tools and the confidence to succeed at whatever I decide to pursue.
Originally I thought about doing a traditional Criminology degree, but I soon realized that the program at Royal Roads covered a far broader spectrum of law. This broad-based curriculum was more appealing to me, as it provided further career options once school was finished.
To be honest, coming back to do a degree was slightly intimidating. I had never considered myself a "serious student". Although my grades were always good, I was the kind of person who showed up for classes but spent only as much time as necessary on homework and never spent time at school outside of class. However, once I acclimatized myself to student life and focused my attention, I gained confidence in my abilities. I started asking questions and became more comfortable with my new outlook. Now I’m not intimidated talking to professionals and I have no qualms in considering myself one now.
The best thing about the program, and Royal Roads as a whole, is that the instructors are professionals in their field. Not only is it a tremendous opportunity for networking, but you get real-world experience and information. The professors have the inside track on changes within the industry, so your coursework is up-to-date and isn’t based on antiquated research done 50 years ago. The professors are helpful to a fault, approachable, and even offered to be a reference for many of us. They were, and continue to be, an invaluable resource for me as I move towards my future.
The most valuable learning I’ve taken from Royal Roads is that I can stick with something and see it to the finish. School seemed somewhat irrelevant before I got to RRU, but after obtaining my degree, it’s something I feel I can really utilize in my day to day life. Ultimately, the Justice Degree Program gave me the tools and the confidence to succeed at whatever I decide to pursue.
