Lens into Juvenile Justice class: The Writers in Residence Program

The metal doors clang echoes through the hallway as students file into the Seneca County Youth Center (SCYC). For many, this is their first time stepping into such a facility, and the weight of the experience hangs in the air. The metal detector hums, a reminder of the layers of security designed to protect, yet confine. Beyond the final set of doors lies a simple visitor room with four large tables, where lives and perspectives are about to change.

In Dr. Sarah Lazzari's Juvenile Justice class (CRM362), this visit is more than a class requirement. It’s a part of the Writers in Residence program, where collaboration between college students and youth in the juvenile justice system fosters self-expression through writing. Co-founded by Executive Director Zachary Thomas, the program empowers young individuals by encouraging them to explore their thoughts and feelings on paper. At the end of the semester, the juveniles receive a chapbook, a collection of their writing, serving as both a tangible achievement and a symbol of their potential.

For the 19 'Berg students enrolled in the course, the program offered a profound learning opportunity. Each visit begins with a writing prompt designed to spark meaningful conversations. During one session, students and juveniles reflected on the prompt, “Write a letter to your younger self." What followed were deeply personal exchanges that revealed the harsh realities many of these kids face.

Bryant Pfeifer, a junior, reflected on how the experience transformed his understanding of the juvenile justice system. "The Writers in Residence program changed my perspective a lot when it comes to the juvenile justice system. To be completely honest, I never thought anything behind it, and to simply put it, I assumed every juvenile chose that lifestyle. However, after working in the Writers in Residence, it opened my eyes to see that’s not always the case," Pfeifer admitted.

One interaction, in particular, left an indelible mark on him. "I met a young kid, maybe 14 or 15, who was malnourished. Without me even asking, he told me his whole life story. He told me he felt safer in the youth center than at home, and that’s why he did what he did. It was heartbreaking, but it was also a beautiful learning experience. I pray for that kid a lot and feel blessed to have had that eye-opening experience."

These visits challenge college students to confront their assumptions and see beyond stereotypes. Bryant noted, "What really stood out to me was learning how poorly run some of these facilities were. Some bigger cities treat these kids like they are common criminals. It is a shame because no one has more innate value than another. I’ve heard so many stories of mistreatment, abuse, and racism. There needs to be a change—from treating these kids as adult criminals with no potential to empowering and inspiring them to change their lives." 

Sarah believes these moments of realization are integral to the class. “My goal is to help students understand how much they can learn from people whose lives are drastically different from their own,” she explained. “Exposing students to these harsh realities broadens their perspectives and fosters empathy.”

The Writers in Residence program bridges a gap between two worlds, one often overlooked and misunderstood and another eager to learn and help. It offers the youth a rare chance to be seen and heard. For college students, it’s a lesson in humanity, resilience, and the transformative power of understanding.

– by Kaidan Mathias '25