Skip to main content
Portrait of Ashlyn Hessler

Honor Society® member

Ashlyn Hessler

  • criminal justice
  • Class of 2027
  • windsor, Wisconsin

Member since April 2025

About

Hello, my name is Ashlyn. I had a wonderful and supportive upbringing. Although my parents are now divorced, their encouragement has shaped my dedication to personal growth and education.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Forensic Science at American InterContinental University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and earning the President’s Academic Excellence Award. I previously earned an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Madison Area Technical College, building a strong academic foundation for my future career.

While completing my degrees, I’ve been working in the security field, gaining valuable professional experience in safety and situational awareness. My long-term goal is to work in forensic science or within a cold case unit, either as a sworn officer or in a civilian role, contributing to solving cases and delivering justice to victims and their families.

Outside of academics and work, I enjoy writing, reading, drawing, and hiking—activities that keep me balanced and inspired.

Education

  • American intercontental university online

    Criminal justice with a specification in forensic science

    2025 – 2026

  • Madison area technical college

    criminal justice

    2021 – 2024

Honors and awards

  • president's list

    This recognition is earned by undergraduate students completing 12 credit hours or more in an academic quarter that achieve a 4.0 grade point average.

Goals and interests

Career goal

My ultimate career goal is to work in forensic science, specifically within a cold case unit or a related investigative field. I aspire to contribute to the criminal justice system by analyzing evidence, uncovering new leads, and helping bring long-overdue justice to victims and their families.

I am open to pursuing this path as either a sworn officer or in a civilian forensic role, depending on the opportunities available within law enforcement agencies or crime labs. My work would focus on applying advanced forensic techniques, critical thinking, and meticulous attention to detail to solve complex cases.

In the long term, I aim to specialize in areas such as criminalistics, forensic biology, or medicolegal death investigation, leveraging my education and training to make a meaningful impact. My vision is to combine scientific expertise with compassion and persistence, ensuring that even the most challenging cases are given the attention they deserve.

Graduate school interests

At this time, I do not plan to pursue graduate school immediately after completing my Bachelor’s degree. My current priority is to gain professional experience in forensic science and begin working toward my career goals. While I remain open to the possibility of graduate studies in the future, I want to focus on building my career and financial stability first.

Outside the classroom

In my free time, I enjoy writing, reading, and drawing, which allow me to express my creativity and unwind from my busy schedule. I also love hiking and running, as it helps me stay active while appreciating nature and clearing my mind.

Experience

  • Security Intelligence Analyst

    As a Security Intelligence Analyst, I monitor and manage multiple security platforms, including CCURE and various integrated applications, to ensure the safety and security of Alliant Energy sites. My responsibilities include overseeing access control, responding to alarms, tracking incidents, generating reports, and coordinating with site personnel to maintain a secure environment across more than 145 locations. This role has strengthened my situational awareness, critical thinking, and ability to manage complex systems efficiently.

Languages

  • English (US) Fluent