October 29, 2026
For Mayville State University criminal justice student Jackson Yon, the path to a career in public service has been strengthened through a unique partnership between Mayville State University and Lake Region State College. As part of Mayville State’s Criminal Justice Program, students have the opportunity to complete the Peace Officer Training Program offered through Lake Region State College.
The optional academy experience provides hands-on training and allows students to build on the knowledge they gain in the classroom while preparing for careers in law enforcement and related fields. Jackson completed the academy in Devils Lake during the spring of 2026, graduating as one of just eight cadets in his cohort.
“My experience at the academy was really fun,” he said. “Most days we woke up at 5 a.m. for physical training, and classes ran from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A lot of it was similar to college with PowerPoint presentations and tests, but once we got to the practicals, that’s when it got really exciting.”
Among his favorite experiences were hands-on training exercises involving firearms, tasers, and simulation rounds.
While the academy provided valuable real-world experience, Jackson says his coursework at Mayville State helped to ensure he arrived prepared.
“The work I did at Mayville State before going to the academy definitely helped a lot,” he said. “Some of the things I learned at Mayville State, I saw again at the academy. Mike McGrath’s courses at Mayville State show you how law enforcement works and prepare you for what you’ll experience in the field.”
That preparation is one reason Jackson recommends both programs to students interested in criminal justice careers.
“The criminal justice program and the academy are very closely related,” he said. “Professors who are former law enforcement officers and probation professionals teach you exactly how the system works. When you get to the academy, you’re not surprised by anything. I strongly recommend doing both.”
With parents who have both been heavily involved in the legal profession, Jackson’s interest in criminal justice began early. He was inspired and developed a desire to serve others and make a positive impact in his community.
“I want to help people, protect others, and bring a positive light to the community I serve,” he said.
Although he is keeping his career options open, law enforcement and probation and parole remain his top interests. Whatever path he chooses, he plans to build his future in North Dakota.
“I love my home state, and I don’t want to leave this area,” he said.
For Jackson Yon, the combination of Mayville State’s classroom instruction and Lake Region State College’s academy training has provided both the knowledge and practical experience needed to confidently pursue a criminal justice career.
“What I really like about the Mayville State criminal justice program is that they teach you exactly what you need to know and what you’ll be doing when you enter the career field,” he said. “You want to know how officers do their job? You’ll learn a majority of it right here in Mayville. The program has definitely gotten me prepared for my future in criminal justice.”
He offers simple advice to prospective students considering the field: “I highly recommend both Mayville State and the academy if you want to pursue a career in criminal justice. You’ll have a lot of fun and learn a lot of things that are actually useful for your career.”
Through the collaboration between Mayville State University and Lake Region State College, students like Jackson are gaining valuable knowledge, practical training, and confidence as they prepare to serve communities across North Dakota and beyond.
Click here to learn more about the Criminal Justice program at Mayville State.