Criminal Justice & Criminology – Outstanding Senior 2022
Noah Hansen
Irvine, CA
Degrees and Majors:
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice & Criminology
Minors
- History
- Spanish
- Magna cum laude
Clubs, Organizations, Leadership, Service
- Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship
- Cougar Marching Band
Internships and Employment
- Police Cadet, WSU Police Department
- Building Manager, Chinook Student Center
- Machinist, Wheeler Industries
- Resident Advisor, WSU Housing and Residence Life
Undergraduate Research
- Honor’s Thesis
Honored Faculty and Mentors
- Dr. John Snyder, Criminal Justice & Criminology
- Dr. Amelie Pedneault, Criminal Justice & Criminology
- Dr. David Makin, Criminal Justice & Criminology
- Officer Paul Jovanovich, WSU Police
“I admire his intention and focus, aligning his career with an internship and area of studies. As the Internship Coordinator, I had the pleasure of reading Noah’s reflection paper regarding his time as a Cadet Intern. Noah wrote, ‘I have learned to appreciate and enjoy the fact that being an officer is about serving the public and not yourself.’” –Criminal Justice & Criminology Faculty
“I have had the pleasure of working with Noah on his honors thesis. Noah demonstrated many of the essential qualities for success, including work ethic, professionalism, and critical thinking. As an educator, it is inspiring to work with such a deserving student on a research project. I look forward to see what he accomplishes in his professional life.” –Dr. Amelie Pednault
Personal Statement
“My time at WSU has been so amazing and there’s so much I have learned, however, one lesson stands out above all else: the importance of community. I looked at many schools and visited other college campuses, but the sense of family and togetherness was not very strong. However, once I stepped on this campus, I immediately learned what it means to be part of the Cougar family. Although I knew no one when I arrived in Pullman, there was never a moment when I felt alone (even during COVID). I immediately became friends with people in the marching band, through the WSUPD Cadet program, through Chi Alpha and in my classes. I also want to thank my parents who have always been supportive of me. I would not be here without them. I want to thank Professor Pedneault for her help while working on my thesis. I can honestly say I would have been lost without her support and insight. Finally, I want to thank those in charge of the WSUPD Cadet Program. I have learned so much from the officers in charge and I wouldn’t have been able to start my career in law enforcement without their guidance.”
Future Plans
Noah has accepted an offer from the Spokane Police Department as he begins his career in law enforcement, hoping to focus on community outreach.