Hailyn Toedter is a Senior majoring in Criminology and Sociology. Hailyn was an intern for the BHDB project in the spring of 2025.
Why did you want to intern with the TRC?
I wanted to intern with the Terrorism Research Center because it aligns perfectly with both my academic and professional goals. I’m considering pursuing a master’s degree and potentially a Ph.D. to become a professor, so gaining meaningful research experience is incredibly important to me. I’m also exploring careers with agencies like the FBI, CIA, or Homeland Security, where understanding terrorism, extremist violence, and bias-motivated crimes is critical. Being part of the Bias Homicide Database team gives me the opportunity to engage with real-world data and contribute to research that has both academic and practical implications. It’s a unique experience that has helped me build strong analytical skills while supporting work that matters.
How has working at the TRC prepared you for your career and what have you learned?
“Working at the Terrorism Research Center has given me valuable insight into the complexities of bias-motivated violence, and it’s helped me build a strong foundation for both the academic and professional paths I’m considering.
Through my work on the Bias Homicide Database team, I’ve developed practical skills in data analysis, case coding, and collaborative research, all of which are crucial whether I pursue a career in academia or in a federal agency like the FBI or Homeland Security. I’ve also learned how to think critically about violence, identity, and ideology from a research-based perspective, which has expanded my understanding of how these issues impact society on a structural level. Overall, the experience has deepened my interest in this field and made me more confident in my ability to contribute to it.”
What are your postgrad plans?
After graduation, I plan to take a gap year to work and save money for graduate school. During that time, I hope to find a position that allows me to continue gaining experience in research or a related field within criminal justice or national security. I’m still deciding between pursuing a Master’s and Ph.D. to become a professor or applying to work with a federal agency like the FBI, CIA, or Department of Homeland Security. Either way, I want to use my gap year to build professional skills, explore my interests further, and prepare financially and academically for the next step in my career.
What advice do you have for future interns?
My biggest advice for future interns is to be proactive and curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take initiative! There is so much to learn, and the more engaged you are, the more you’ll get out of the experience. Pay close attention to detail, especially when working with sensitive data like in the Bias Homicide Database and always think critically about the broader implications of the work. Also, take the time to connect with your team. Everyone brings different perspectives and experiences that can really enrich your own learning.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am named after the classic rock band Van Halen!