Ihsan Hage-Hassan

Criminology master's student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

I completed my Bachelors degree at SFU in 2021. I did a double major in Psychology and Criminology, as well as completed the Honours project. During my undergraduate degree, I became involved with various research opportunities that helped fuel my passion for research in corrections, including being a research assistant at Youth Forensic Psychiatric Services as well as a book club volunteer at Surrey Pretrial Services Centre. I strongly believe that research enables opportunities to reform Canada’s criminal justice system, thereby improving prisoners’ reintegrative and rehabilitative potential.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose to come to SFU because SFU is known for being the top university for students who wish to study Criminology. I knew that I would learn from wise faculty members whose research interests align with mine. I also loved the interdisciplinary volunteer research opportunities available to both undergraduate and graduate students that not many schools offer. For example, Psychology and Criminology are very complimentary; I was able to gain research experience in both department which allowed me to investigate a phenomenon through multiple perspectives and different schools of thought.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

My research focuses on corrections, which examines how the criminal justice system treats, punishes, and supervises people convicted of a criminal offence while in the community or in a correctional institution. For my thesis, I am examining Man-to-Man/Woman-to-Woman (M2/W2) Prison Mentorship volunteers’ experiences and perceptions working in corrections, particularly while working with prisoners, correctional staff, and in the correctional environment.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I am enjoying the warm and collaborative space among the Criminology staff, faculty members, and other graduate students. I also enjoy the social networking opportunities graduate school brings that allow me to carry out my research projects, including working with lead researchers in the field of corrections and getting to know those who work directly with prisoners.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I have received the SSHRC CGS Masters Scholarship. This scholarship allowed me to focus solely on my thesis without having to worry about any financial concerns. It also helped provide honorariums for my research participants as a thank you for their contribution in enhancing my knowledge in the field of corrections.

Contact Ihsan: ihagehas@sfu.ca