Jackson Allsbrook

Why did you choose this line of work?

I chose this line of work because it offered a unique opportunity within the criminal justice field. While I initially didn’t know much about the insurance industry, I was drawn to the investigative aspect of the role. During my internship at Atlantic Casualty Insurance, I gained hands-on experience and quickly developed a strong interest in insurance investigations. I appreciated the variety and complexity of each case, and I enjoyed seeing how my criminal justice background applied in a real-world setting. The internship allowed me to build a professional network, prove my value, and ultimately led to a full-time position after graduation.

Favorite ECU and/or Criminal Justice memory

Some of my favorite memories from the Criminal Justice program came from the opportunities to step outside the classroom and visit facilities relevant to our coursework. These were unique opportunities that allowed us to see the real-world examples of what we were learning.

Outside the classroom, my favorite ECU memories are rooted in attending sporting events. As a lifelong Pirate fan, those moments were incredibly meaningful, and no matter the outcomes, the memories are something special that I’ll always carry with me.

How has a degree in Criminal Justice from ECU benefited you in your career?

My degree in Criminal Justice from ECU has given me a strong foundation in understanding legal systems, investigative practices, and analytical thinking—all of which I apply in my current role. The program helped me develop the critical skills I use daily and positioned me well for long-term growth in my career.

What advice do you have for current students?

Be open-minded about where a Criminal Justice degree can take you. There are so many paths beyond the traditional roles people typically associate with the field. Take full advantage of the internship opportunity—it’s a key part of the ECU Criminal Justice program and a chance to explore, make professional connections, and gain real-world experience. Choose your internship wisely and be intentional—it could shape your career more than you think.

Any other information/testimonial/aspect of your story you’d like to provide

One of the greatest strengths of ECU’s Criminal Justice program is its versatility. It equips you with the foundational knowledge to pursue many different paths—whether in law enforcement, forensics, law, or private sector investigations. It’s easy to assume a criminal justice degree only leads to a narrow set of careers, but the program at ECU broadens your perspective and shows you how many options are truly available. Your experience is what you make of it—and for me, it led to a rewarding career I hadn’t initially imagined.