Meet Emma Guo

“I have always had a strong interest in understanding behaviour and solving complex problems,” reflects Emma Guo, who graduated from the Master of Criminology Justice and Regulation (MCJR).

Emma said that her decision to pursue criminology at the Masters level, felt like a natural progression to the Flexible double degree in International Security Studies and Psychology she completed in 2017.

“At the end of my undergraduate degree, I wanted to broaden my knowledge and further build on my understanding of human behaviour that was not limited to the individual or the state.

“In addition, the threat of crime is more complex than ever before, as criminals adapt to an evolving environment. And where advancements in technology and the globalised environment have led to new vulnerabilities that can be exploited by criminals.

“Studying the MCJR has certainly allowed me to strive for what I am passionate about and interested in.

“It has also given me the opportunity to study a broad spectrum of criminal behaviour ranging from the individual to transnational crime groups,” said Emma who undertook her studies while working full time as a Policy Officer.

“Whilst balancing work and study has been challenging, I have found my course convenors and the team at RegNet to be very accommodating, which has enabled me to manage my work and university commitments.”

For Emma, one of the highlights of studying criminology at ANU was the high quality of interaction she had with the academic staff.

“Given the smaller class sizes, we had the opportunity to discuss and receive tailored advice on topics of interest.

“At RegNet, and the ANU more generally, it is a privilege to learn from and receive a broad range of advice from a diverse range of scholars who have different backgrounds, extensive experience and who have undertaken in depth research related to the drivers of crime and methods for prevention.”

“Overall the experience of studying in the MCJR has been extremely rewarding on a personal and professional level.”

Having completed her postgraduate studies, Emma will continue working in the public service and applying what she learnt at university with the aim of keeping Australians safe.

“The degree has provided me with the necessary skillset to succeed in the workforce, including my current role, and has inspired me to pursue a career that I am deeply passionate about.

“While I do plan to pursue further study, I first hope to develop my practical experience and knowledge to better understand the challenges associated with developing and implementing policy that will provide greater security outcomes for Australians.”

*The MCJR is now the Master of Regulation and Governance.