“I’m here in this position now because of the internship.”
While double majoring in chemistry and criminal justice, Aidan Michel (’24) took on additional responsibilities as an intern with the Franklin County (Kansas) Sheriff’s Office. His internship led to a full-time job, so we asked Aidan for thoughts on seeking real-world experience while still a student.
Q. What’s your current position and how long have you been there?
A. I am a deputy with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. I split my time working in the jail and on patrol. I’ve been here since May of 2022.
Q. How did the internship help your career and/or education?
A. Having the internship gave me a multitude of benefits both in my education and my career. While attending MNU, I was able to provide an insider’s opinion on several topics we would cover in Professor Hiestand’s [criminal justice] classes. We would cover something in a book, and he’d ask me if this was also true in the current world or just “book talk.” I was able to understand laws, regulations and statutes covered in class better because I could connect the dots.
For my career, it opened the door for me to become certified as law enforcement in Kansas. It helped me gain knowledge and crucial information for the real world that I could take everywhere. I’m here in this position now because of the internship.
Q. Why did you choose law enforcement as a career?
A. The world needs more Christian perspectives in the law enforcement world. I don’t want to be in the career forever unless it’s truly what God wants me to do, but it allows me to get to where I want to go, which is federal law enforcement. The societies we live in are struggling with drug usage/abuse. I want to use my degree in chemistry to dive into that world and tackle that at the federal level one day.
I think God currently has me in this career to help change the narrative of law enforcement officers. I enjoy helping people, protecting those who can’t protect themselves, and holding people to a higher standard while respecting them and not abusing my power. It’s a great environment with hard-working individuals who want to make a difference.
Q. What is your advice for current students?
A. My advice is simple. Enjoy college! Communicate with your professors. Tell them your goals, and what you like or dislike about their classes. Hang out with friends, skip a class or two, pray, and do your homework on time! Everything else will fall into place.
Next Steps for Students
MNU professors and advisors in all majors encourage students to seek internships or career-related experience during college. Learn more about how students can begin to prepare for careers at http://mnu.edu/undergraduate-arts-and-humanitiess.
