Social
Location
Brandt Hall 332
Mailing Address
One University Plaza, MS 7950
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

What area do you teach?

Criminal Justice

Education/Degree(s)

B.S. in Criminal Justice
M.S. in Criminal Justice Administration

Your Philosophy of Teaching

I try my best to be student orientated. My philosophy is to provide students with information not only from textbooks, journals, and videos but also from my experiences as a practitioner in the field. Ideally, this allows students to learn and understand how the information presented in class can help them in their professional careers.

Why did you decide to teach?

I had tremendous faculty as a student at Southeast. They were engaged and actively sought to help me not just as a student but as a person and an individual wanting to work in this field. The time and energy they put into helping me succeed was something I'll never forget. Ultimately I decided I wanted to have the same impact on students and teaching has allowed me that opportunity.

Credentials/Career Path

  • Probation Officer for Private Correctional Services
  • Youth Care Advisor for Johnson County, Kansas
  • Juvenile Diversion Officer for Johnson County, Kansas
  • Juvenile Drug Court Coordinator for Johnson County, Kansas

Professional Highlight

There are many success stories from my time working with juveniles in drug court. Being a part of young individuals turning their life around is certainly a highlight.

Awards/Honors/Recognitions

  • Team Award (2014-2015)

Organizations with Which You are Involved

  • Knights of Columbus

Best Advice for Students

Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek help. Faculty are here to help and we want to help. Sometimes simply asking questions you may be afraid to ask can open up new doors and allow you to achieve new heights.

Also, read. While faculty would love to teach you everything you need to know, we can't. So make sure you're teaching yourself and a good start is by actually reading.

I try my best to be student orientated. My philosophy is to provide students with information not only from textbooks, journals, and videos but also from my experiences as a practitioner in the field.

John Unterreiner, Instructor