Tell me about your current role at Yale University?
In conjunction with working as a Patrol Officer, I have recently been assigned as an Engagement and Inclusion Liaison (EIL) to the Yale African American Affinity Group, along with Berkeley and Hopper Colleges.
What are your main responsibilities?
As an EIL, I have been tasked with improving community relations between the Yale Police Department and my perspective groups. The objective is to be a resource to each group and help build a greater sense of community between our department and the Yale community. As an officer, I am responsible for patrolling the campus and ensuring the safety and well-being of the Yale community.
What do you like most about your work?
I love that each day is different and I never know what to expect. I am able to meet new people and through each encounter I attempt to leave a positive impression. Although, there are times when law enforcement action is required, I always try to be fair and imagine if I were in their shoes.
How does your job affect your general lifestyle?
The YPD operates 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. As Patrol Officers we are required to fill the shifts so we are often required to work on holidays, weekends, and evenings, which takes us a way from our families. We have to be flexible, sometimes staying past our normal work hours to complete a job or covering an extra shift. With that said, working as an officer is a fulfilling profession and worth the personal sacrifices that are often made. It is also important to acknowledge that we put our own personal safety aside to keep others safe whenever we put on our uniforms. But as officers we understand the harm that can come with this profession but our desire to serve outweighs that factor.
How did you begin your career?
After working in various fields, I decided to take a chance and embark on a long-time dream to become an officer. I grew up in a law enforcement family and always wanted to be a part of a profession that was dedicated to serving others. I wanted to help change the negative narrative of police officers and be a positive change agent in the community while doing something meaningful.
What steps would you recommend one take to prepare to enter this field?
I encourage people to do their research and do not be afraid to ask questions. Preparing to take the entry exams can be challenging and requires a lot of discipline. It is important to understand what to expect and the sacrifices you will have to make early on to get through this journey. There are several critical stages, which include a physical, written, psychological exam, along with a polygraph and extensive background check and interview that individuals must pass. Once this is completed, you are required to complete a 6-month extensive training academy that is not only physical but involves studying case law, getting a medical certification, along with fulfilling other requirements.
What skills, abilities, and personal attributes are essential to success in your job/this field?
The most important tool an officer must have is good communication skills. Above all you have to be able to talk to people in order to de-escalate situations when you respond to a call and/or come in contact with the public. I also think it is important to be fair and compassionate when working in this field.
If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? If not, what would you change?
Absolutely. I often say I wish I had embarked on this profession sooner because I love what I do. However, I realize that my previous life experiences have prepared me to handle the responsibility of being an officer and equipped me to handle myself in most situations I have encountered.
What does YAAA mean to you?
I value being able to connect with other like-minded professionals who share many of my same experiences having grown up in the New Haven area. In my short time as a liaison to YAAA, I have had some great conversations with individuals who have a passion to help others in the community and want to make a difference.
As the new YPD Liaison for YAAA, what are you hoping to accomplish?
I want to build relationships and have an open line of communication. As an officer and YAAA member, I want people to know that I am here to answer questions they may have about my profession but may not have had the means to get answered before. I am hopeful my role with help unify the Yale community and humanize officers. I want people to get to know me past the uniform and realize we are more alike than different.