Why did Samara choose her program?
“I completed my master’s in criminology and criminal justice at MSU in May 2024. During my undergraduate studies, I had several opportunities to engage in research, both as a research assistant to my professors and through independent projects. These experiences helped me discover my passion for conducting research and contributing to the development and application of new knowledge, particularly for improving criminal justice-related issues in marginalized communities and populations.”
Why choose MSU for graduate education?
“In my junior year, as I became increasingly interested in research and considered pursuing a graduate program after completing my undergraduate degrees, I learned about the accelerated master’s program offered by my department. The opportunity to begin taking graduate-level courses early and complete the degree in a shorter timeframe was very appealing. It was also a relatively easy decision for me, given the strong relationships I had built with my professors within and outside my department at MSU. Additionally, receiving a graduate assistantship from my department was a blessing, as it provided me with hands-on research experience and further opportunities to deepen my skills.”
Favorite class/professor
“My favorite class was the independent study on restorative justice that I did with Dr. Aida Hass and Professor Caryn Saxon as my mentors. Designing the course with their guidance allowed me to engage with a variety of materials and have in-depth discussions with them. We share a common interest in restorative justice, and I gained a lot from their insights and our conversations. We even formed a research team that we are all fond of to continue exploring restorative justice topics together. Taking initiative and leading my own learning was both a great and fun experience, and the personal, meaningful interactions with my professors made this class my favorite.”
Overcoming challenges
“The most challenging aspect of my graduate program was, without a doubt, completing my thesis. Although I love research and enjoyed working on my thesis, there were times when I felt overwhelmed and exhausted. I had never struggled with procrastination during my undergraduate studies or other earlier graduate courses, but with my thesis, I sometimes found myself postponing work because of burnout. My research topics are close to my heart, and I care deeply about my projects, which often led to perfectionist tendencies, emotional fatigue and time constraints. To overcome these challenges, I took time for self-care, like going for walks in nature, setting detailed and realistic daily goals and participating in thesis writing retreats organized by the Writing Center and Graduate Student Senate. However, the most crucial support came from my professors. My thesis committee and other professors I had close relationships with empathetically listened to me during moments of overwhelm, even when I tried to hide my emotions or when, on the contrary, I was just letting it out without making any sense. I am incredibly grateful for their emotional support, research guidance, and mentorship. They helped ground me and were my biggest cheerleaders throughout the process. I feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by such amazing people.”
Memorable experiences at Missouri State
“It is hard to choose just one memorable experience, because all the moments I spent as a student at Missouri State University are precious, even the stress-driven coffee pickups and midnight Andy’s ice cream runs. However, I would love to use this opportunity to highlight my time with the Graduate Student Senate (GSS). I served as a senator representing the College of Humanities and Public Affairs (now the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities) in my first year and as vice president in my second and final year. Although it was challenging to balance studies, research, work, life and GSS, I am very proud of having been part of this organization and the work we accomplished. I enjoyed leading discussions and organizing events with other GSS members to provide more engagement, educational and professional support for our graduate student community.”
MSU community supports students
“I am grateful for the support system I developed at MSU and in the Springfield community. My involvement with the International Programs Office at multiple levels — as a mentor in the Global Leaders and Mentors program and later as a student worker — allowed me to become friends and work with incredible people from both the U.S. and other countries. Outside of MSU, I also found a home in the Springfield community through the Springfield Sister Cities Association. This organization promotes “peace through people,” and it has been an absolute delight to participate in and help organize events fostering friendship between cities in Japan, Mexico and the U.S. Another significant part of my support system is my professors, both within and outside my graduate program. I have built strong relationships with professors from the criminology, anthropology and communication programs throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies at MSU. I love them and am deeply grateful for their attentiveness and care for my well-being, as well as their mentorship and guidance. These connections were a source of light for me and what made many challenges and overwhelming moments feel more bearable.”
Proudest professional accomplishment
“My proudest accomplishment is earning my master’s degree in the U.S. As a first-generation student, I am deeply proud to have completed my degrees in a foreign country. I am especially proud to have finished my thesis and feel honored to have received the Citizen Scholars Award, the Outstanding Graduate Student Research Award, and the Distinguished Thesis Award. Additionally, I take pride in continuously working on issues I am passionate about alongside my studies, such as addressing sexual violence, supporting restorative justice efforts, contributing to the education of and interaction with diverse cultures and advocating for student conditions and concerns through student government. Having my parents fly in to attend my graduate commencement ceremony was a precious moment I will treasure for life, as it celebrated my achievements and recognized and appreciated their sacrifices, love and unwavering support.”
Her graduate education is preparing her for her future
“My graduate education at MSU has been instrumental in helping me discover my passion for research and advocacy work, which now drives my aspiration to pursue a PhD and seek a position as a university professor or researcher at an organization dedicated to addressing criminal injustice and human rights issues. Throughout my time at MSU, I learned a lot and honed essential research, communication and critical thinking skills. These skills were developed not only in the classroom, but also through engaging discussions with my professors and peers, as well as through opportunities to assist with faculty research during my graduate assistantship. Now, working as a per-course faculty member at MSU while preparing my PhD application, I can see how everything I have learned and gained during my graduate education continues to have a profound impact on my journey”
Advice for upcoming #GradBears
“If you are considering pursuing a graduate degree at MSU, my advice is to fully embrace the experience. Graduate education can be challenging, with demanding coursework and the need to balance various aspects of life. It is not uncommon to encounter feelings of imposter syndrome and burnout along the way. It happened to me. However, MSU offers a supportive environment with exceptional professors, staff and peers who are genuinely caring and willing to work with you. I encourage you to actively engage with them, build meaningful relationships and seek their guidance or simply a listening ear when needed. Your time as a graduate student is significantly shorter than your undergraduate studies, so make the most of it by taking advantage of the resources and opportunities available to you. This will enhance your academic journey and personal growth. Despite the challenges, it is a 100% worthy experience! Go Bears!”
Follow her on social media
LinkedIn: Samara Mizutani Cesar