Student

Jerome Frazier

Human Services & Restorative Justice

Jerome became fascinated with the idea of helping others as a kid. He sees in others what they don’t see in themselves and wants them to succeed. “I continue to see people as an unfinished book,” he says. “That means there is always a chance to move forward from the past and write a brighter future.” He’s writing a brighter future for himself, too.

Q&A with Jerome

HAS THERE BEEN ANYONE IN YOUR LIFE WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU?

Yes! My father, for starters. Also, Dr. Winder and Professor Moore (Human Services & Restorative Justice faculty) have been two of my biggest heroes. “Heroes” is my preferred word to use with these two because they showed me who I could be. They never let me give up, and when I had an idea about a course, subject, or personal issues they didn’t let me face it alone. I see the passion and commitment from these two and the monumental changes that have been made since the start of this program.

I’ve learned who my support system is and my strengths, but most importantly, my resilience. I would’ve never known this about myself if they weren’t there to shed light on those areas I was unfamiliar with. I hope I can shed that same light on my future clients!

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED THAT HAS CHANGED YOUR PERCEPTIONS IN SOME WAY?

During classes, I’ve learned a lot about connections. I learned that it’s important to get uncomfortable with people. That means that, although your friends or family seem happy and uplifting, it’s important to sit down with those same people and ask tough questions – questions concerning their health, mental health, love life, and making sure they know they have a support system. My perceptions have changed. Moving forward, I see a future in administration in Restorative Justice. I’ve learned that I am capable of leadership.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE PENN COLLEGE?

Penn College is close to home! I have to maintain a full-time job while going to school, so it’s convenient. I’m very thankful I did because it has given me opportunities that I’m grateful for as a future graduate. I know how the careers gained from the Human Services & Restorative Justice degree help our communities and that appeals to me.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF LEARNING AT PENN COLLEGE?

My favorite aspect of learning at Penn College would be the constant activities that are available throughout the week. There is never a day where there isn’t a planned activity on campus. I also enjoy knowing that the Human Services and Restorative Justice program continues to make strides.

IF SOMEONE WERE INTERESTED IN PENN COLLEGE, WHAT MIGHT YOU TELL HIM/HER?

My advice to anyone asking about enrolling in Penn College would be to keep an open mind. Make connections and be sure to check out Career Services – they offer a lot of one-on-one activities that help employ a better future.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR INTERNSHIP?

I'll be working a caseload of clients with the juvenile probation officer I’m interning alongside. I’ll be doing house visits to see my clients and attending court to see my clients through the judiciary processes. I'll also be able to meet with the judge of my clients’ cases. This internship will last for 250 hours, and I’ve been invited back to complete my senior internship there, as well.

Real-World Ready

“This degree has continued to break the mold of what I thought I could be. I hope to employ a sense of empathy, resilience, courage to my future colleagues and clients.”

Jerome Frazier