“Uncertainty: A Powerful Teacher” – Julia Moraes, CJPP Student and Award Recipient

For Julia Moraes, life has been anything but ordinary. Born and raised in Brazil, she arrived in Canada eight years ago with dreams of higher education and the hope of building a brighter future. Fast forward to 2024, Julia not only graduated from the University of Guelph’s Criminal Justice and Public Policy (CJPP) program but also became the inaugural recipient of the prestigious Dr. William (Bill) O’Grady Prize for Excellence in CJPP.

“It’s been an incredible journey, full of challenges, growth, and discovery,” Julia shared as she reflected on her academic path and personal achievements. “It took me a while to embrace that uncertainty and trust the process, but throughout this entire journey, I maintained an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and to searching for what I was passionate about.”

The Beginning of a New Path

When Julia first enrolled in the CJPP program, she envisioned a straightforward path toward a career in law. The program’s interdisciplinary nature seemed like the perfect starting point for someone aiming to make a difference in the legal field. However, as she delved deeper into her studies, Julia began to uncover a world of possibilities she hadn’t previously considered.

Julia was captivated by courses that examined the overrepresentation of Indigenous individuals in the Canadian justice system, the intersection of policy and law, and other critical human rights issues. They inspired her to look beyond traditional legal roles and think about how she could create change in other ways. Her growing interest in social justice eventually led her to focus on women’s reproductive rights, a cause she has become deeply passionate about.

Finding Purpose Through Research

Julia’s dedication to reproductive justice paved the way for an unexpected but rewarding opportunity as a Research Assistant in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mount Sinai Hospital within the world-renowned Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute. In this role, she collaborates with a team of experts working to improve care for vulnerable and marginalized populations, including those affected by systemic inequalities.

“I never expected my journey to take this turn, but I couldn’t be happier with where it’s led me,” Julia said. “The skills and knowledge I gained in the CJPP program prepared me to tackle complex issues and drive meaningful change.”

The research work has also allowed Julia to see firsthand how interdisciplinary approaches can lead to impactful solutions. She has learned to navigate the intersection of policy, advocacy, and scientific inquiry—skills that will undoubtedly serve her well in her future endeavors.

Overcoming Challenges Along the Way

Julia’s success didn’t come without its challenges. Moving to a new country and adjusting to a different culture while pursuing a demanding academic program was no easy feat. On top of that, the uncertainty of charting a career path often left Julia facing moments of self-doubt. “Being in a new environment, away from home, was tough. But I’ve always believed in pushing forward, even when things feel uncertain,” she shared.

What made a difference for Julia was the unwavering support she received from the CJPP faculty. Professors like Dr. Bill O’Grady were always approachable, offering guidance and encouragement that helped Julia feel confident in her abilities. Julia also had the opportunity to work with Dr. O’Grady on one of his final research projects prior to his retirement, a study focused on investigating and addressing homelessness in Guelph and other cities in Ontario, and she is very grateful to have had the chance to contribute to such an important endeavour alongside CJPP professors she respected and admired. The close-knit community within the CJPP program also provided her with a sense of belonging, which played a crucial role in keeping her motivated.

A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy

Julia’s story is not just one of personal growth but also of giving back. Throughout her time at the University of Guelph, she actively participated in events like Wrongful Conviction Day and the Truscott Lectures, raising awareness about critical issues in the justice system. These experiences fueled her desire to inspire other students to explore their passions and embrace the unknown.

“I’ve learned that uncertainty can be a powerful teacher,” Julia said. “It pushes you to think creatively and find new paths forward.”

Receiving the Dr. William O’Grady Prize for Excellence was a defining moment for Julia. To her, the award symbolizes more than academic achievement—it’s a recognition of the hard work and dedication she’s poured into her studies and a reminder of the impact she hopes to make in the world.

Looking Ahead

As Julia embarks on the next chapter of her journey, she remains deeply connected to the CJPP program and the supportive community that shaped her journey. She’s confident that the program will continue to empower students to challenge the status quo and create meaningful change in their respective fields.

For Julia, the future is full of possibilities. Whether through research, advocacy, or leadership, she is determined to make a difference in the lives of others. “The CJPP program didn’t just teach me about policy and law—it taught me how to approach challenges with empathy and creativity. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities and support that helped me get to where I am today.”

Julia’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, curiosity, and the belief that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. It’s a story that inspires others to embrace their own paths, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

The University of Guelph’s Alumni Affairs & Development office works with donors to create scholarships, bursaries, awards, and other initiatives that play a vital role in advancing equity, fostering opportunity, and empowering students to succeed.

To learn and explore ways you can make a difference, please contact Elizabeth Rauchenstein, Alumni Advancement Manager at erauchen@uoguelph.ca for donations up to $25,000 or contact Cristina Coates, Senior Development Manager at ccoate02@uoguelph.ca for donations over $25,000. Together, we can shape a future built on opportunity, inclusivity, and shared success, inspiring a ripple effect of generosity.