Hello! My name is Erika McCague and I’m a rising junior at the University of Pittsburgh. I am majoring in Law, Criminal Justice, and Society, minoring in Spanish, and pursuing the Public and Professional Writing Certificate. 

This summer I have the amazing opportunity to participate in the Wrongful Conviction Seminar through Pitt in London. This program will give me the chance to explore wrongful conviction within an international context, all while getting to explore the diverse city of London. During my time in the Wrongful Conviction program I will be taking two courses, Politics of Human Rights and Critical Issues in Criminal Justice. Through these courses I will be studying and exploring human rights with a specific focus on wrongful conviction. Additionally, I will have the opportunity to observe trials and visit human rights organizations in London that work to support the wrongfully accused. 

I chose this study abroad experience because it aligns closely with my academic and future career goals. I plan to attend law school to become a practicing attorney. As of now, criminal defense is the most compelling direction for me. Within this field, wrongful conviction will be extremely relevant. This program will provide me with a broader viewpoint on an important human rights aspect of criminal justice systems throughout the world. This is a unique perspective that I will be able to carry with me throughout the rest of my undergraduate career as an LCJS major, during law school, and as a practicing attorney. I have always been drawn to learning about the law because I have a desire both to learn about the ways in which injustice permeates our societies and also to explore possible ways to combat such injustices. 

During my month in London I will be experiencing life as Londer, living in a flat and commuting throughout the city using the tube. There will be ample opportunities, both through CAPA and independently, to explore London. Aside from our wrongful conviction related field trips, through the program I will also be able to experience some of the most famous and well known parts of London. 

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity I have not only to explore a new, international city, but to be able to grow as an academic within a community of peers with similar goals and aspirations in a foreign country. Although I know this experience will also be full of challenges and learning moments, I am confident that it will help shape me into a more well rounded academic, professional, and person. 

See you in London!