Current occupation: Police Commander and Adjunct Professor
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
Learning is a process that does not stop. I decided to pursue my degree as an adult to not only improve my professional skills but to be available for more career advancement opportunities.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I received 6 Graduate credits from Tiffin University upon graduation from the Police Executive Leadership College (PELC) in 2019. I chose to reach out to Tiffin University in 2022 to complete a Masters in Criminal Justice Administration and the representatives were welcoming.
Describe your experience with the program, your cohort and faculty?
The program was challenging and rewarding at the same time. Dedicating time to each course was manageable but required discipline for success. I was anxious about using the latest technology and taking online courses 20 years after graduating from college. The technology that Tiffin University used was easy to learn and student-friendly. I was able to adapt quickly even though my computer skills are average.
The distinguished faculty was helpful and understanding of the wide variety of students. Professionals in the field and students without experience could interact in a forum conducive to learning. The faculty was available for one-on-one assistance, and students helped each other when needed.
How did you juggle work, life, and going back to school? Any tips?
Returning to school while working full-time requires sacrifice and understanding from family, friends, and employers. When I announced my decision to return to school, my Police Chief, wife, and family were supportive and encouraging. If you work a full-time job, I recommend taking one class at a time and staying consistent: Slow and steady wins the race.
What kept you motivated to stay in the program?
My motivation to stay in the program was to learn more about Criminal Justice Administration. Despite being a police officer for over 20 years, I discovered how much more I needed to learn to improve my skills and serve the public more effectively.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
I would advise prospective students to make a 5-year plan and go back to school to achieve their goals. Stay focused, flexible, and consistent and you will be successful.
TU’s motto is: Without risk there is no gain. Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and what you gained from it?
I attended the FBI National Academy in 2022. Entrance to the program is competitive, and attendance is 11 weeks of in-person learning at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. I moved to Quantico, leaving my family, friends, and Police Department behind. Coursework and physical training were challenging, but leaving everyone behind was the most difficult.
After taking this monumental step in my career, my personal and professional life has improved beyond what I thought was possible. While at the FBI, I contacted Tiffin University and wanted to take on the next challenge of returning to school. After graduating from Tiffin University in 2023 with a Master’s in Criminal Justice Administration, I recently became an Adjunct Professor in Criminal Justice at Cuyahoga Community College.
Life cannot always be carefully planned. Sometimes, you must take the risk; you don’t know what it will lead to.