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Jessica Gross

Class of 2025, A.S. Criminal Justice
Social & Behavioral Science

“Atlantic Cape helped me through a difficult time in my life when I was really unsure about what to do with my future. I knew the College would keep my mind busy and give me a better future. They helped me with my internship at the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office and taking the next step in my journey towards becoming a detective.”

What are your plans after graduating?

Stockton University: BA/MA Dual-Degree Program for Criminal Justice.

 

Why did you choose Atlantic Cape?

It is close to home, I previously took classes at Atlantic Cape in 2014 and I loved it.

 

What opportunities has Atlantic Cape provided you?

Atlantic Cape has helped me stay clean and sober for five years now. I have been able to experience the NCCWSL - Women's Conference at University of Maryland, Circle of Change Conference in Miami, Leadership Summit, my first Broadway show, indoor skydiving, internship at prosecutors office in SVU, involved in both EOF & adjunct professor student panel, one of the first mentors for the First-Year Experience Peer Mentor Program, helped me get into the Stockton Live-Work-Learn Program, Mental Health Advocate certificate, first prize in art show, Keynote Speaker for CSS Graduate Award Ceremony, built new friendships, became closer to my family and friends, Gave me hope for the future and built lasting relationships.

 

What activities, clubs or sports were you involved with during your time at Atlantic Cape?

Educational Opportunity Fund, Student Support Services, First-Year Experience Peer Mentor, and helped with graduations & open houses.

 

Describe the biggest challenge(s) you faced and how you overcame it/them.

Staying clean and losing the love of my life. Although he is always with me, I was really unsure about what to do with my future after losing him, but I knew going to Atlantic Cape would keep my mind busy and give me a better future.

 

Did you attend classes in-person, online, hybrid or remote?

I attended classes at Atlantic Cape In-person, online, hybrid and remote.

 

Who would you like to thank for helping you achieve your college or career goals?

Jean McAlister, who helped with my internship at the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office (ACPO) and Stockton Live-Work-Learn Program. Najah Jones, who was always there to listen and kept my head on straight while helping me realize what I want to do with my life. She informed me of the Stockton Live-Work-Learn Program, helped me with outside resources and so much more. Lynette Ingram, who listened and gave advice when it came to problems outside of school. She was always so positive and supportive, and informed me, along with Najah, about the Stockton Live-Work-Learn Program. She also helped me with community resources and assisted me with informing my professors when I had a hardship at home. Professor Keith Carmack, who, as a former detective for the ACPO, and by him sharing his stories, inspired me to become a detective. Professor Madeline Barrows, who helped me with problems going on outside of school and helped with resources. She always had great advice and was always so positive. Professor Matt Dixon, who helped bring back my creative/artistic self. He always helped me and gave great advice. He always had awesome ideas and designs that were inspiring.

 

What does graduating from Atlantic Cape mean to you?

It means I am taking the next step in my journey towards becoming a detective at ACPO with phenomenal people who supported and stood by me.

 

What would you say to someone who is thinking about attending Atlantic Cape? Why should they consider Atlantic Cape?

Great professors, amazing staff and counselors. It feels like family in a way, and will make lifelong connections and provide remarkable opportunities.

 

What is Your Advice for Future Students?

Make connections with everyone you meet. You never know what doors they could help you open. Enjoy your time at Atlantic Cape and talk with other students. View your professors as friends. Don't be afraid to ask a question or stay after class to talk with them. Enjoy all of the different events, workshops and trips that Atlantic Cape has to offer.