Student Spotlight: Hannah Walters is a senior in the Law Enforcement Intelligence program.

Where are you from? Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I am from Wausau, Florida. I chose to attend FSU Panama City for the more personal experience it offers including smaller class sizes. Also, attending FSU PC would provide me with more opportunities for internships and learning experiences outside of the classroom that may not be as accessible around much larger institutions.

What inspired you to choose your degree program?

I have always had an interest in the intelligence and legal field. The Law Enforcement Intelligence program seemed to be the perfect pathway towards my goal of attending law school and becoming an attorney while allowing me to study topics that interest me.

What has your experience been so far in the program?

My experience has been filled with caring and knowledgeable instructors as well as classmates from various backgrounds (some already being criminal justice professionals!). In addition to purposeful coursework, I have learned from numerous instructors who previously worked, or continue to work, in the field as investigators, law enforcement officers, special agents, attorneys, etc.

What aspect of your area of study do you find most fascinating?

The complexity of each stage of the justice system has certainly been the most fascinating. While crime shows touch on the most entertaining segments of investigations and arrests, there is so much more behind the scenes! There are professionals from wide varieties of expertise that work together to make an investigation, trial, arrest, etc. as thorough and cohesive as possible.

Who are the faculty or staff members that have helped or inspired you?

Each instructor has helped and inspired me in different ways. Beyond their typical assistance and instruction, I have been inspired by their wisdom from firsthand experience in the field, whatever part of the field they may have been involved in. I have also been inspired by their willingness to pass their wisdom on to their students.

What do you like to do when you’re not doing school work?

I enjoy boating, playing with my dogs, country music concerts and festivals, and trying new foods.

After you graduate, what are your plans?

After graduation, I plan to attend law school and work towards my goal of becoming an attorney.

What advice do you have for fellow students?

Get involved outside of the classroom! Find an internship or job that aligns with your degree program. This hands-on experience is priceless. Also, getting to know people professionally through an internship or job in your desired field can give you a major advantage for a permanent position after graduation. Put yourself out there and learn as much as you can!

Law Enforcement Intelligence