Each student will be required to conduct one professional interview with a current or former professional working in their field of interest. The purpose behind the interview and paper is to practice the skills gained from the material covered within this course. Students will gain experience in beginning and ending the interviews/meetings, how to prepare for their interview, how to use active listening skills, and how to use questions to gain insight into their prospective field of interest.

The paper should include the following components:

· How did you make contact with this individual

· With whom did you meet and why?

· The reason why you chose to interview this person

· A brief description of his/her job or career field

· What organization does this person work for, and what is his or her job?

· Describe the interview – what were the main topics that you discussed?

· What did you learn from the interview?

· Summary of the significant information you gained from your interviewee.

· What impact did this interview have on your career pursuits?

· What steps did you take to follow up after the interview?

Utilize the below Professions for the Interview

1. Special Victims’ Counsel (SVC)

These are Judge Advocates (JAG Officers)—licensed attorneys—who have received specialized training to provide legal representation to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

· Role: They provide confidential legal advice, accompany victims to interviews and proceedings, and advocate for the victim’s interests, which may differ from the command’s or government’s interests.

· Privilege: SVCs maintain an attorney-client relationship with the victim.

2. SHARP Victim Advocate (VA)

SHARP stands for Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention. These are trained, certified professionals (often DA Civilians or NCOs) who work under a Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC).

· Role: Provide 24/7 crisis intervention, advocacy, and non-clinical support to victims.

· Confidentiality: They can receive restricted reports (confidential) or unrestricted reports (triggers investigation).

3. Family Advocacy Program (FAP) Counselor/Advocate

These professionals work within the Army Community Service (ACS) to address domestic abuse and child neglect.

· Role: Offer non-clinical advocacy, safety planning, and resources for victims of domestic abuse.

· Clinical Counseling: FAP also includes licensed clinicians who provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families.