Niel L. Thoreson

I chose to study criminal justice because it led to an opportunity to pursue a career where I could give back to the community and make substantial differences in the lives of often marginalized members of our society.

Why did you study criminal justice? 

I chose to study criminal justice because it led to an opportunity to pursue a career where I could give back to the community and make substantial differences in the lives of often marginalized members of our society.

What’s unique about studying criminal justice at UW-Milwaukee?

That UW-Milwaukee is located within the largest urban setting in Wisconsin provides for openings to network with instructors and community justice system decision makers that are actively applying the latest research in the field to real life circumstances.

If you did a field placement, how did this experience help you?

I did complete a field placement with a smaller, suburban police department. The experience assisted me in understanding how actors in the community justice system interact with each other and collaborate, even though at times their agencies have divergent roles in the overall delivery of justice. Obtaining this knowledge proved valuable as I entered a career in community corrections where often times we take on the paradoxical role of helping clients change their behaviors while also holding them accountable for decisions that they may make that erode public safety.

How did HBSSW help you?

HBSSW assisted in exposing me to varied opportunities that exist within the field of criminal justice outside of law enforcement and by creating spaces to engage in meaningful dialogues with practitioners and agency leaders in these areas. It also taught me the importance of critical thinking and how to approach subjects with an awareness of bias.

What’s your best advice for criminal justice students?

I would encourage them to get involved with student associations or other civic bodies, which are abundant at UW-Milwaukee. By doing so, they will assuredly foster diverse relationships, gain experiences that complement and enhance what they are learning in the classroom and be better prepared for their post-graduation endeavors.

Where is Niel L. Thoreson now?

Niel L. Thoreson is regional chief for region 3 (Milwaukee County) of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, Division of Community Corrections.