ABSTRACT

The process of discerning vocation requires conscious attention to the development of experiences that begin in the first semester and culminate upon graduation. In this chapter, we describe the process of vocational discernment through experiential learning (EL) for criminal justice majors. Where possible, we have included student impact statements. Based on our experience with students, EL is an effective tool for assisting students with finding their calling. However, successful implementation requires resources and buy-in from all faculty within a department. The chapter provides readers with information on the purpose of EL within the criminal justice vocational discernment framework, recommendations on factors that should be considered when developing EL vocation programming, and examples of assignments generating reflection among students.