L ooking back to high school, I remember reading the results of my career aptitude test. The printout showed compatible choices being nurse, teacher and police officer. I remember thinking, “Oh yeah, I’ll be a cop! Right.” I didn’t realize it at the time, but those careers all had something in common—they were all in the business of helping others.

Fast forward a few years and I found myself in my fifth year teaching middle school science. I was looking for a change and found it during career day. The SAPD Crime Scene Investigators came to the school to promote careers in forensics and I knew this was for me! After applying for the position and completing the training, I became a civilian CSI. I worked alongside officers and observed them making a difference in people’s lives on a daily basis. This resonated with me and I thought, “I want to do that too.”

During the Police Academy, I was really challenged and learned so much about myself mentally and physically. Turning 32 years old in the academy, I found the training very intense, but it really prepared me for what I was to encounter on the streets. In addition to the many skills learned during the academy, I realized that I wasn’t out there alone—I was part of team with a common mission to protect and help others in their time of need.

Since graduating from the academy in 2003, I have had so many amazing experiences as an officer on patrol, as a detective, in CSI and now as a sergeant at North SAFFE. Some moments have been difficult, scary, and sad while others have been joyful, rewarding, and humorous; but all have been meaningful. These moments have all added up to a dynamic and satisfying career.

With so many different units, ranks, and training opportunities, the sky is the limit! Come find out what’s in YOUR future with the SAPD!