A criminal justice major with a minor in sociology, and a member of UHart’s Pre-Law Advising Program, Royston Lester's ‘26 academic journey has been guided by a passion for understanding the complexities of crime, law, and society. His decision to major in criminal justice reflects his fascination with the intricacies of the criminal justice system. “I want to pursue a career as a criminal defense lawyer, so it made sense to study criminal justice before law school.”
“Criminal justice is a very fun and thought-provoking major,” says Royston who admits to being obsessed with true crime. “It invites you into the minds of criminals and courts to decipher not only why people commit crime, but also how they do it. It’s almost like watching Criminal Minds, but there’s more information and it’s all accurate.” He says by pairing the major with a minor sociology makes it even more enlightening because you learn the factors at play on a different level.
The interdisciplinary nature of Royston’s studies, combined with his involvement in extracurricular activities such as the Student Government Association (SGA), UHart’s Red Key Society (campus tour guides), Criminal Justice Club, A&S Student Ambassadors, and the Pre-Law Society has provided him with a well-rounded understanding of the societal factors that contribute to crime and inequality.
Royston's engagement in campus activities, particularly in the role as the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice chair in SGA, demonstrates his commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable campus community. Each week, Royston hosts Community Conversations in GSU Hawk Lounge. “To date, we have covered education on important history like the Harlem renaissance, native-American heritage, transgender remembrance, religion, Black inventions, disability awareness, and much more. To have a more impactful delivery and foster collaboration, we invite representatives from different clubs and organizations to sit with us and engage the students.”
Through initiatives like Community Conversations, Royston has worked to promote education and celebration of diversity on campus. This year he was recognized for his community involvement by receiving the MLK Beloved Community Award. “Winning the MLK award is definitely one of my best moments at UHart,” he says. “I was ecstatic to know I was being honored with such an award, reminding me that my efforts didn’t go in vain, and my voice didn’t go unheard.”
Royston’s passions go beyond the academics. He is also drawn to the world of fashion, having made a debut in the modeling arena for New York Fashion Week. While his primary focus remains on pursuing a career in law, his interest in fashion hints at his multifaceted personality with diverse interests and talents.
His advice to incoming UHart students and aspiring activists emphasizes the importance of getting involved, finding one's niche, and making the most out of the college experience. By encouraging students to engage with campus organizations and take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
“My favorite thing about UHart is how easily accessible my professors, advisors, and even other faculty members are,” he says. “While at other colleges it would take weeks to get to talk to the president of the university or the dean, at UHart I see them walking around campus nearly every day. This has created a sense of community that helps me to thrive not just as an activist, but also as a student.”
Royston Lester ’26, College of Arts and SciencesMy favorite thing about UHart is how easily accessible my professors, advisors, and even other faculty members are. While at other colleges it would take weeks to get to talk to the president of the university or the dean, at UHart I see them walking around campus nearly every day. This has created a sense of community that helps me to thrive not just as an activist, but also as a student.