Undergraduate Student Spotlight: Taryn Morikawa

December 13, 2022

Taryn Morikawa is a Senior at Michigan State University dual majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology, with a minor in Law, Justice and Public Policy.

Born and raised in Kapolei, Hawaii, a small city on the island of O’ahu; Taryn was involved in gymnastics, cheer, and was part of multiple academic clubs including her school’s Robotics Club. It was in her high school Forensics class that she first became interested in studying Criminal Justice.

Taryn has been highly active in student life at Michigan State University. Her first two years on campus, she was part of MSU Cheer, she is a member of Alpha Phi Sigma (the Criminal Justice Honors Society), works at IM West, and is part of the Cold Case Unit. As a member of the Cold Case Unit, Taryn works to solve cold cases with the Michigan State Police.

When she is back at home in Hawaii, Taryn enjoys going to the beach, surfing, and hanging out with her friends. While here in Michigan, Taryn enjoys hanging out with her friends and is a certified movie buff.

During her time as a student, Taryn has taken advantage of the opportunities available to Criminal Justice students. She has attended presentations from alumni, participated in the Criminal Justice Career Fair, and worked with Criminal Justice Career Placement Specialist Tim Homberg.

Taryn’s next steps haven’t been fully laid out, yet. She intends on finishing up classes, continuing her internship with the Michigan State Police, and applying to the School of Criminal Justice’s Online Masters Program in Law Enforcement, Intelligence Analysis. However, where she will end up geographically remains to be seen.

Regardless of her geographic location, one thing remains certain: Taryn Morikawa has the drive and determination to reach her goals.