Eastern Mennonite University

JPCS Alumni

Cathrine Blum, C 07

Cathrine Blum What motivated you to become a JPCS major?
I became motivated soon after I found out about the program here at EMU. It sounded like a blend of all the things that matter most in my life; building relationships, understanding conflict, working towards a sustainable peace throughout the world and how to incorporate these ideals into the context of my own life.

What do you hope you’ll be able to do with your JPCS major?
I'm not quite sure exactly what direction I will go with my major as there are many disciplines within the major itself. However, I do feel pulled in the direction(s) of: advocating for restorative justice in prisons, influencing environmental and/or economic policy with the intent of creating sustainable, just, and equitable outcomes.

What course(s) has been most stimulating or meaningful for you as a JPCS major?
It would be extremely hard for me to pinpoint just one course that was meaningful. All of the courses I took were meaningful and challenging in different ways. Together, they helped shape my personal growth in many areas of my life. Two experiences I had within my classes that are held in high regard are field trips to; Graterford Prison to participate and facilitate the Alternatives to Violence Program, and the Intercollegiate Peace Conference in Bluffton. It was at these places that I was a witness to transformation and my hope for change in the world was rejuvenated.

What are some key learning points you will be taking away from your time at EMU and as a JPCS major?
How to step outside of myself in order to look at things from a different perspective; to look for alternate solutions or ways to approach a situation/conflict; that we are all connected in some way and the choices we make directly or indirectly affect one another; and most importantly, to challenge/question everything.

Would you recommend EMU’s JPCS program to a prospective student?
I would definitely encourage JPCS as at least a minor because I find that it complements any field and if it doesn't, then it should.