WKU News

Hannah Hennessey, class of 2023, is a double major in Criminology and Forensic Psychology. While still trying to sort through the multitude of job opportunities, she hopes to one day join the FBI. Her ultimate goal is “to be able to use my empathy and passion for equality/justice to better the future of the Criminal Justice System.”

Hannah has always been an empathetic and compassionate person, and learned that these qualities are incredibly valuable in Criminology and Forensic Psychology career paths after learning about the injustices within the Criminal Justice System. After reading Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson in highschool, she states, “it helped me recognize that I no longer could sit back and watch these things happen. I felt called to continue my education and pursue a career in this field in hopes to one day make a difference. No matter how big or small that difference is, it will all be worth it even if I'm just able to help a handful of people in my community.”

On campus, she is currently involved in Kappa Delta, Soc & Crim club, and multiple intramurals. Off campus she loves to be outdoors and spend time in nature, including playing sports and being active. She values her family dearly and spends ample time with them. Hannah states, “Through WKU I was lucky enough to find a great group of friends who I am constantly with that inspire me to be my truest self.”

She currently has an internship through BGPD under April Fulcher, the victim advocate. This opportunity has given her real-world experience, including insight on “how much work goes on behind the scenes to help victims get their much-deserved justice, observing interviews at the Child Advocacy Center (CAC), and attending a multitude of specialized meetings and workshops.” Hannah acknowledges that sometimes the cases she sees can be heavy. This does not discourage her because, “In the end, it is all worth it to see a victim get the proper support and resources to recover.”

Hannah’s experience and opportunities at WKU have been fueled by her caring and kind nature and exemplified her abilities to make change in the world around her.