My name is Elizabeth Castro and I am a senior in my last semester at Minot State University. I will graduate with two degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. I am also earning a double minor in Management and Honors. I plan to work in the field of Human Resource Management following graduation. Though, this is not my ultimate career goal. After working in HR for a year or two, I plan on attending law school to become a criminal defense attorney. I have wanted to become a lawyer since I was about nine years old. I came to the realization that I want to specifically become a criminal defense attorney after reading To Kill a Mockingbird. Atticus Finch became my hero because I too want to fight for the poorer communities and people marginalized by society. My personal experiences in life, along with accumulated knowledge of our government systems and policing policies, have only reiterated my ambition to become a criminal defense attorney. I want to fight for those who may not have the finances to personally hire a lawyer. Thus, my ultimate career goal is to start my own practice and take on as many pro bono clients as I can handle.

I feel I have become a better person as a result of the Honors Program. It has given me the opportunity to think critically about topics on leadership, ethics, diversity, community involvement and more. I also appreciate the small class sizes as they allow more open discussion on these topics during class. Many of the classes also offer areas of self-reflection on our journey and experiences through life and the program itself.

The following portfolio will display how I have achieved each goal of the Honors program which includes critical thinking, community awareness and involvement, communication, and cultural diversity. Artifacts will be presented for each goal achievement which occurred both inside and outside the classroom. This portfolio will also showcase my involvement within the MSU community and the community of Minot. The various projects I have completed and experiences shared are what led me to grow as a person. I believe the skills and experiences I have attained will assist me in my future careers and involvement within our society.