Alumni Spotlight: Jamie (McCoy) Chaney

Hometown: Hillsboro, Ohio

Graduation Year: 2016

Campus: Chillicothe

Major: Bachelor of Specialized Studies

Major Area of Study: Psychology, sociology, and social work 

Current position: Court/victim advocate at Alternatives to Violence Center

Professional duties: 
I attend criminal court on a victim's behalf. Anytime there is a domestic violence charge, I am there to ensure that the victim's wants/needs are heard and met as best as they can be. I speak to the prosecutors and attorneys in order to work through a case. If a victim is asking that an offender needs a mental health assessment, I am the one who lets the courts know what is being requested. I also help clients obtain civil protection orders by accompanying them to domestic relations court. I also advocate for sexual assault victims by being present for Sexual Assault Exams as a support person. On the other side of that, I also work with offenders as the facilitator for court ordered anger management classes.

Why did you choose Ohio University?
The convenience of the Ohio University Chillicothe campus made the decision easy. I had researched other colleges but my searching kept leading back to Ohio University. I heard that holding a degree from OHIO speaks volumes to potential employers. Once I spoke and met with advisors and other staff at the Ohio University Chillicothe, I felt they were truly there to guide a person to success and that made a huge difference in making that final decision to attend OHIO.

How has your specialized studies major served you?
I have been given so many different opportunities to experience things I would have never gotten to experience without my degree. It has served me in a way that has allowed me to appreciate my childhood, my life in general, and my education. Working in the criminal justice field opens your eyes to a world that most people try to pretend doesn't exist. It does exist, and when you work in it, you appreciate all aspects of it.

What experiences and skills led you to this position?
When I was hired on with my agency I had no experience in this field other than what my education provided me. The knowledge I gained through my classes at OHIO helped me obtain this position. One important skill is being able to set aside my own biases and beliefs before meeting with a new client. Other key skills in this job are computer skills, being able to adapt to change, and staying organized while doing so. Learning quickly is a huge asset as well when working in criminal justice.

What advice do I have for Ohio University students?
When things get tough or overwhelming, don't be ashamed to reach out. My advisors were a life saver for me! Give yourself a pep talk and pat yourself on the back when you accomplish a goal. I truly believe we all have a flame that burns within us. We just have to be willing to work hard to find what it is that keeps our flame burning. When it's time to seek employment be open-minded. If someone would have told me when I was in school that I would be doing what I am doing now, I would have told they are crazy, yet here I am. Don't give up. Take advantage of opportunities, and push forward!