Justice Studies graduate gains skills through ACCPA field practice
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When Elaine Balisi began her field practice placement with the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association (ACCPA), she expected to gain practical experience. What she didn’t anticipate was how transformative the opportunity would be, strengthening her skills, building her confidence, and reinforcing her long-term career goals.
Balisi, who recently completed her Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies at Royal Roads University, was drawn to the program because of its applied approach. “I’ve always been interested in questions of fairness and how justice is experienced in everyday life,” she said. “I wanted a program where theory connects directly to practice, and that’s exactly what RRU offered.”
Her placement at ACCPA gave her the chance to contribute to meaningful projects, including supporting the association’s annual crime prevention conference. But for Balisi, the highlight was writing a research paper on retail crime in Alberta.
“That paper allowed me to bring together academic research, policy, and community perspectives in a way that could support ACCPA’s work,” she said. “Knowing it’s being shared with government officials to help secure funding is extremely rewarding.”
The paper has already opened new doors for Balisi. She has been invited to join a panel discussion at the upcoming Retail Crime Summit in October, an opportunity she describes as both exciting and humbling.
The field practice also gave Balisi a behind-the-scenes look at advocacy and community-focused justice. “It’s been extremely rewarding because it helped me connect with an area of life I’d never experienced before,” she said. “I feel like I’ve grown so much personally and professionally.”
Balisi said the experience helped her strengthen her research and writing skills, develop adaptability, and build confidence in collaborating with diverse groups. “I learned how important it is to build relationships and networks in the justice field,” she said. “This experience reminded me that real change often starts locally.”
Looking ahead, Balisi plans to pursue law school, with her time at ACCPA reinforcing her passion for advocacy. “This placement reinforced my interest in community-focused justice,” she said. “It gave me a perspective that will shape how I approach my career.”
She also has advice for other students preparing for Field Practice. “It’s important to remain curious and proactive,” she said. “Even small opportunities can lead to big learning moments. The more engaged you are, the more you’ll take away from the experience.”
Balisi has chosen to remain involved with ACCPA as a volunteer, extending the impact of her placement. “This experience has been incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned along the way.”
Learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies program.