Written for The Argo by John Capoferri

Dakota Blemings, the public relations representative for the recently reinstated Master of Arts Criminal Justice (MACJ) Club, has been attending Stockton University since 2018. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology in May of 2020 and is currently working on a master’s degree in Criminal Justice with a focus on Forensic Psychology. As a PR representative, Blemings will be creating content for the club’s Instagram and TikTok which are planned to launch later this month. 

With Lu Ruibin, Ph.D. as their staff representative, the MACJ Club is looking to expand current interests for those within the Criminal Justice Master’s Program by conducting trips, seminars, and panels with professors. “I feel like a lot of people aren’t aware of this program,” said Blemings. “It can sometimes be hard to find information on it, so we want to let people know what it is and our truthful opinions about it.” Right now, the club is working to set up a panel for students that will feature professors and graduate students who will give information and answer questions about the program.

Many people in Blemings’ program are also looking to help people affected by the current criminal justice system and change it for the better. According to Blemings, “The system, as it is now, is flawed. A lot of the people in my program want to change that. We’re the future of criminal justice in this country and we want it to work for everyone.”

Blemings has been interested in forensic psychology since she was a teenager; Now, through Stockton University’s Master’s Program, she is closer to turning that interest into a career. “It’s really fascinating, honestly,” she said. “After I earn my degree, I would like to work in criminal reentry programs and therapy.”

Blemings has spent many years studying criminal behavior and psychology and hopes to use that to help former prisoners reintegrate into society. “I’ve always been interested in how the brain works. Knowing how criminals think and justify their behavior is key to helping them from becoming repeat offenders,” she stated.