Administration of Justice Program Prepares Students for Prosperous Careers
The Administration of Justice Pathway Program (AJPP) at Fullerton College has been instrumental in helping its students secure careers in the field. Overseen by Professors Leticia Ramirez and Kelly Robertson, the program offers a robust combination of theoretical and practical learning that successfully prepares students from college to career.
This feature explores the stories of four students and their journeys as participants in the AJPP. From their experiences during the program to where they are now, our students thank the AJPP for setting them up for success.
Aislynn Casillas
A Fullerton College alumna, Aislynn Casillas earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and forensic files from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB).
For Casillas, the program helped her connect with professionals in the field. Between networking with criminal justice professionals and taking advantage of the program’s field trips, Casillas found comfort in immersing herself in the field by asking insightful questions about it.
“The program has amazing instructors and mentors who are there to help. More specifically, I was able to be a CSI intern thanks to them and get field experience,” said Casillas. “The program taught me about the police culture, but also the laws and police code. I was taught on interviews for jobs as well and resume building which helped a lot.”
Now serving as a police cadet for the Huntington Beach Police Department, Casillas works toward her goal to help people in the criminal justice, forensics and legal systems.
Casillas was also featured on Fullerton College’s episode of The College Tour, where she was able to share her wins and the program’s fruitful opportunities. Learn more about her story by watching her segment of The College Tour.
Valerie Perez Bustos
Valerie Perez Bustos graduated from Fullerton College in May 2024 with her associate in science degree from the administration of justice department, along with her honors and crime scene investigation certificates.
A first-generation student, the program had a tremendous impact on Bustos’ academic and personal growth. Through its valuable services, such as peer mentoring, tutoring, field trips, guest speakers and more, Bustos gained the confidence and support she needed to succeed.
She also developed valuable professional connections, with networking becoming one of her strongest skills. She became involved with the Fullerton Police Department Youth Advisory Board, gaining firsthand experience working with law enforcement professionals and learning the importance of community engagement. Her growth continued as she joined the Public Safety Preparatory Academy at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF). She is also a Campus Safety employee at Fullerton College, where she works with the college’s officers to ensure that the campus is safe and running smoothly.
“The program taught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone, building relationships and engaging with current social issues,” said Bustos. “Without this program and the guidance of Professor Robertson, I would not have achieved the same level of success I have today as both a student and an employee at Fullerton College.”
Passionate about the field and its rich offerings, Bustos’ goal is to serve and protect her community while continuing to grow both personally and professionally in the criminal justice profession.
Ricardo Casillas
A fourth-year student in the AJPP, Ricardo Casillas’ career goals have always been to work alongside law enforcement and CSI. However, the program’s dynamic curriculum has expanded his interest in other courses in the field.
From critical skills to decision making and effective communication, Casillas’ skills expanded to report writing and crime scene documentation.
“Thanks to what I learned in the program, I was able to secure a CSI internship, where I have been able to apply classroom knowledge to real investigations and develop hands-on skills in evidence collection and crime scene work,” said Casillas.
In the future, Casillas looks forward to applying his foundational knowledge to the role he will land in the future. With his understanding of law enforcement practices, legal procedures and ethical decision making, he is ready for the next chapter of his life as a future AJ professional.
Mikey De La Rosa
Interning in the Crime Scene Investigation Unit at the Fullerton Police Department has been an incredibly fulfilling experience for Mikey De La Rosa. An opportunity made possible by the AJPP, De La Rosa felt welcomed and prepared thanks to the courses he took under the leadership of Ramirez and Roberston.
“There’s always a positive vibe around, whether I’m lending a hand to another unit for the day or just catching up with friends I’ve made during my time here. Even the smaller tasks feel meaningful and every time I respond to a crime scene, I learn something new and valuable,” said De La Rosa.
Since joining the internship, De La Rosa has felt more motivated to keep chasing his goal of becoming a crime scene investigation professional. This program and internship have opened more enticing career possibilities that share the same meaningful purpose, like working as a police services officer or deputy coroner.
Excited to see where this experience leads next, De La Rosa is currently continuing his educational career in the AJPP and honing his skills in the classroom and actively on the field.
To learn more about the Administration of Justice Pathway Program, visit the program’s website.
