People of the Pack: Austin Thompson

Molly Sperlich: What is your position in the criminal justice club?

Austin Thompson: I am currently the president.

MS: What are your responsibilities as president?

AT: Scheduling events on campus, I organize trips and also working with faculty to get speakers on campus.

MS: What sort of trips do you go on?

AT: Anything related to the criminal justice system so, anything courts, correction, or law enforcement related. In the past we have been to Pierre, SD for a training at the law enforcement training center.

MS: How did you find out about this club and how long have you been involved?

AT: I have been involved since I was a freshman. I was looking for more opportunities on campus related to my field of study. I applied for an executive position because I had some ideas I wanted to contribute.

MS: How many members do you currently have?

AT: Anybody who is a criminal justice major is considered a member. But it is open to any people from any major. Currently, I would say we have about 54 members who are involved.

MS: What is the main purpose of this club?

AT: To give students who are interested in criminal justice information and opportunities to pursue their career. 

MS: What career do you hope to have after you graduate?

AT: I plan to work in law enforcement. I will probably start off as a patrol officer, but eventually I want to work forensics for the state of South Dakota.

MS: What sort of events does the criminal justice club put on?

AT: Oftentimes we have speakers on campus. Last semester, the South Dakota Highway Patrol brought drug detection dogs and demonstrated how they identify drugs on South Dakota highways and interstates. We also have the crime scene competition.