July 22, 2026
Mayville State University student, Kambree Hauglie from Bismarck, N.D., is enjoying an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting, while preparing for a future career in criminal justice and counseling. This experience is being made possible through a summer internship with the United States Probation and Pretrial Services Office for the District of North Dakota.
Through her internship, Hauglie, a double major in psychology and criminal justice, works alongside federal probation and pretrial officers in a variety of roles. Her responsibilities include assisting officers with reviewing and filing documents through multiple databases, entering notes and tracking client compliance, and reviewing case information to support supervision efforts.
One of the most impactful aspects of the internship has been her firsthand exposure to the federal court system.
“I have had the opportunity to attend a wide range of federal court hearings, including initial appearances, detention hearings, sentencings, and revocations,” Hauglie said. “Being able to interact with federal judges and attorneys has helped me gain a much deeper understanding of court procedures and how the system operates.”
Hauglie’s work also involves applying risk assessments to identify client needs and determine appropriate levels of supervision and support. She assists with referrals to substance-use and mental-health resources and observes officers during client meetings in both office and treatment facility settings.
Beyond observation, Hauglie has been entrusted with direct client interaction, conducting check-ins in person and over the phone to monitor progress and provide support. She also helps create bond reports for judges, conducts bond interviews to gather background information, reviews criminal histories, and verifies court records. In certain cases, she reviews internet monitoring activity to help ensure compliance with court-ordered conditions and promote both client and community safety.
Hauglie credits her studies at Mayville State with preparing her for the challenges and responsibilities of the internship.
“My psychology and criminal justice coursework has helped me succeed so far in this role,” she said. “Classes that focused on correctional processes, rehabilitation models, court procedures, evidence-based practices, and risk-need-responsivity principles gave me a strong foundation for understanding the work I’m doing every day.”
She also noted the influence of faculty members, particularly Dr. Mike McGrath, who has provided guidance about what to expect in the field and offered practical insight into federal criminal justice careers.
“Coursework gave me experience with interviewing techniques, handling difficult situations, and working through real-world scenarios,” Hauglie said. “Those are skills I use daily during my internship.”
Her psychology studies have proven equally valuable. Courses in behavioral, physiological, forensic, and developmental psychology have strengthened her understanding of human behavior and decision-making.
“I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned about how substances affect the brain, the influence of social networks, and cognitive behavioral therapy concepts to better understand why behavior develops the way it does and how people change over time,” she said.
Hauglie also credits Mayville State’s small class sizes for helping build her confidence and communication skills.
“The small classes have allowed me to have meaningful discussions with professors and classmates, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the material,” she said. “The environment has helped prepare me to communicate effectively and build relationships in a professional setting.”
Following graduation from Mayville State in the spring of 2027, Hauglie plans to pursue a master’s degree in counseling. Her long-term goal is to build a career focused on rehabilitation, reducing recidivism, and enhancing public safety.
“The experience I’ve gained so far has been incredibly rewarding,” Hauglie said. “It has strengthened my commitment to work that makes a positive impacting, helping others, and deepens my understanding of human behavior. I’m motivated to keep learning, keep growing, and continue working toward the goals I’ve set for myself in this field.”
Through her internship experience, Hauglie is gaining a unique perspective on the intersection of criminal justice, behavioral health, and public service, an experience that is helping shape the next steps in her professional journey while reinforcing her desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“Kambree has demonstrated excellence in every aspect of her experience at Mayville State,” said Mayville State University President Dr. Brian Van Horn. “Professionals of her caliber will strengthen our workforce and serve our state well for years to come.”
To learn more about the opportunities in criminal justice and psychology at Mayville State University, visit www.mayvillestate.edu or email recruitment@mayvillestate.edu.