Josie Grote is a Junior majoring in Criminology and minoring in History. Josie was an intern for the CASDAL project in the fall of 2024.
Why did you want to intern with the TRC?
I chose to intern with the TRC to gain new skills that will help me become successful in my career. I am working on coding different databases which has allowed me to become familiar with different variables, topics, and how one should code. Interning in the TRC has also allowed me to gain new connections. Doors are opening for me because of the people I have met and stayed connected to.
How has working at the TRC prepared you for your career and what have you learned?
The TRC has prepared me for the world of Criminal Justice by giving me real life examples. The facts I code and the information I read can be degrading, horrifying, and sickening. Yet many of the events and cases happen daily. The TRC has prepared me for these things, to be able to analyze information rationally and not emotionally.
What are your postgrad plans?
I plan to apply to the FBI or Homeland Security and work as a crime analyst.
What advice do you have for future interns?
Don’t give up on trying something just because you do not think you can do it. When I first applied to the TRC I was terrified that I would not be able to complete tasks within the coding world because I did not have a lot of experience. I was worried that I would be the only one struggling and that scared me. Yet I still applied and looking back, I am so glad I did. I was not the only one who was unfamiliar with coding and my project manager helped us throughout the process. Trust me, it was hard, but I adapted, grew, and learned so much. Don’t give up on something; it might be the best thing that ever happens to you.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have dual citizenship in Luxembourg. Luxembourg is a small country near Germany, and it is absolutely gorgeous!