Alexis Gifford

Alexis' History Making Moments

What are your central passion(s), and how do you plan to pursue them after graduation? How have your experiences at Flagler shaped these passions?

My central passion is helping others become better citizens. I plan to pursue this passion by becoming a correctional officer with the Clay County Sheriff's Office. In this job, I will be working closely with inmates and can utilize my position to help inmates with rehabilitation. I will also be able to utilize this position to lower the level of recidivism (likelihood an inmate reoffends).

Who or what inspired your passion in this area?

My dad inspired me to get into this field of work. He was also a corrections officer with the Department of Corrections (DOC). He told me stories of how he carried himself in the prison and how that would benefit the job and the inmates. 

Another two individuals who inspired me would be professors Jennifer Farmer and Jordan Bos.

Jordan Bos was my corrections teacher, and she taught us how the jail may be operated and how to act as an officer. This opened my eyes to how I can help people in the line of law enforcement. Professor Farmer taught me that law enforcement can be a beneficial career to the community and help keep everyone safe. She also encouraged me to go into this field and saw my potential.

Can you share a memorable story from your time at Flagler that always makes you smile? What made this moment special for you?

My senior year of college my younger brother, Trent, and I were roommates at Sebastian House. We both were able to move in early because we both had work, and we had a lot of fun helping each other set up our rooms and blasting music. We spent all night hanging out with each other and got ready for the semester to begin.

Which academic resources, experiences, or mentors at Flagler were most valuable to you, and how did they contribute to your success?

In the criminology major there were guest speakers that John Stevens would bring to campus. These speakers would include the Sheriff of SJSO, correctional officers, detectives and many other guests who are part of sheriff's departments.

My biggest mentor at Flagler was Jennifer Farmer. She was an amazing professor and was extremely intelligent in the field of criminology. If I ever had a doubt or question about the career path or a class, I knew I could go to her. 

What advice or lesson would you give to your freshman year self about the college experience?

It is okay to take time for yourself. It is okay to relax when time warrants it, and you do not have to be so hard on yourself. 

In the Flagler spirit, how do you hope to make history after graduation?

I hope to be a guest speaker in my now former Criminology classes to provide advice and information to the students. I have spoken to a few of my professors about this, and it would be amazing to help students with their future plans.