Inside Out Program Spotlight: Cece Branson

August 14, 2024

Cece Branson is a Senior at Michigan State University with a double major in Criminal Justice and International Relations. We sat down with Cece to talk about their experiences participating in the Inside Out Program, a course held at the Cooper Street Correctional Facility in Jackson, Michigan. The course comprises a group of traditional MSU undergraduate students and non-traditional inmate students. 

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What interested you in coming to MSU and studying Criminal Justice? 

In high school I spent a lot of time watching Criminal Minds and at the time I wanted to join the FBI. I began looking for colleges that had excellent Criminal Justice Programs. I applied to Michigan State University as a double major in Criminal Justice and the James Madison College. 

What are some of the most valuable things you learned through the program? 

This course has taught me a lot about the criminal justice system, myself, and incarcerated individuals. In the beginning, I was unsure if I would be able to connect with the men inside Carson City Correctional Facility. However, by the end of the semester I felt a huge immense empathy for them. One moment that stood out to me was when one of the men described the course as a form of “rehabilitation” for them. In my opinion this demonstrated how the course has helped them, hopefully towards a path of positive changes and self-growth once they are reintegrated back into society.  

How do you feel the Inside Out program has/will help you as a student and your career? 

Before completing the course, I had an entirely different path to what I wanted to pursue. Now I have questioned a lot about future plans and where I want to end up after finishing college. While I do not know where exactly I will end up, I know that if I were to work in a correctional facility, I would approach the job with empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the individuals inside the system. I plan to pursue a career where I can help people’s lives and advocate for individuals to overcome obstacles to thrive.  

Any advice for someone who would like to join the Inside Out program?  

I highly recommend taking the course if given the chance. This is an incredible opportunity to go inside a correctional facility. It’s a different classroom setting but will allow you to learn about the ins and outs of one aspect of the criminal justice system. 

Learn more about the Inside Out Program here and contact Dr. Jennifer Cobbina to get involved.