Dear Sirs,
I wish to express my sincere gratitude for affording me an opportunity of studying towards my Doctorate in Criminology and Criminal Justice. The program, though a marathon, was really an insightful, enriching and transformative experience, which has enhanced my leadership, professional and academic skills.
The study program at AIU and its unique experimental learning, gave me a chance to add my own topics to the proposed curriculum design, and this gave me an opportunity to look back at my professional career and identify gaps I needed improvement in; and this enabled me to think of my future and articulate skills I needed for my future professional and academic career, upon achieving the Doctorate degree. Hence my researching, optimally.
Further, the faculty were highly knowledgeable and passionate about their research, providing insightful lectures and engaging in discussions. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on research methodology and critical thinking, which has been invaluable in developing my own research skills.
I am so grateful to all the AIU faculty and the presenters of the weekly live classes I attended. In addition, the AIU online library and other resources enhanced my research and data analysis abilities, which grew my knowledge in understanding the theories, concepts and contemporary issues in Criminology, Criminal Justice, International Criminal Law, Human Rights, Diplomacy and International Law; and how such disciplines’ overarching interconnection and collaboration in the pursuit of justice, and their shared goal of a safer society, assisted me knowing the difference between criminology and criminal justice, as the best way to study the two concepts, in one degree. Such own experimental curriculum design, was very comprehensive, as I managed to review a wide range of topics, from core criminological theories to contemporary issues in criminal justice, including the jurisprudence of United Nations Internal Justice Mechanism.
The program also offered a supportive and collaborative learning environment. The cohort of students was diverse and intellectually stimulating, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, during the weekly live classes, which also enhanced my presentation skills.
I also benefited from the mentorship of my course coordinators, the Academic Dean and the Director, who all provided invaluable guidance and support throughout my study program.
One of the highlights of the program was the opportunity to be interviewed by the AIU faculty. This experience enhanced my communication skills and broadened my professional competence, and I am now confident that the knowledge and skills I gained from this program will be invaluable as I embark on my career as a researcher and educator in criminology and criminal justice.
I am grateful to the faculty, staff, and fellow students for making my study at AIU a memorable experience and I am glad to broaden my network as an AIU Alumni.
Thank you so much.
Sincerely.
Dorah Namasiku Likukela
