Detective Sergeant Robert Feliciano “IMPACT” Scholarship

The person who has had the greatest impact on my life is my father. Growing up in a military family, I watched him lead not only through words but through actions. He taught me that character is built through discipline, accountability, and service to others. Whether facing challenges at work, supporting our family, or helping those around him, he consistently demonstrated the importance of putting duty before comfort. His example shaped the person I am today and continues to influence the type of professional I hope to become. One of the most valuable lessons I learned from him is that integrity is not something you demonstrate only when people are watching—it is something you practice every day. He emphasized taking responsibility for mistakes, learning from failures, and always striving to improve. Those lessons became especially meaningful during my freshman year of college when I was placed on academic probation while participating in the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) program. It was a difficult period in my life, and I could have blamed my circumstances or lowered my expectations. Instead, I remembered the values my father had instilled in me. I accepted responsibility, improved my study habits, strengthened my time-management skills, and worked to become a better student and leader. Another quality I adopted from him is resilience. Throughout my life, I have seen him approach challenges with determination rather than discouragement. That mindset has helped me overcome obstacles and remain focused on my long-term goals. Resilience is especially important in law enforcement, where professionals are often required to make difficult decisions, remain calm under pressure, and continue serving their communities during challenging circumstances. I have also adopted his commitment to service. This passion led me to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice and volunteer with the Santa Monica Police Department in forensic-related work. Through these experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of the responsibility that comes with serving the public. I have learned that effective law enforcement requires not only knowledge and skill but also empathy, professionalism, and a genuine desire to help others. As I pursue a career in investigations and forensic science, I hope to make an impactful difference in my community by applying the same values my father taught me: integrity, accountability, resilience, and service. These qualities will help me build trust with the public, approach every situation fairly, and contribute positively to the criminal justice system. I believe that meaningful change begins with individuals who are committed to doing the right thing, even when it is difficult. My father's influence has shaped both my character and my career aspirations. Because of his example, I have learned that true leadership is measured not by personal success alone but by the positive impact you have on others. That is the standard I hope to uphold throughout my life and future career in law enforcement.

Someone who has been profoundly impactful in my life is my father. His journey from being an immigrant to establishing a stable life for our family in New York City has inspired me in countless ways. My father’s dedication, resilience, and unwavering work ethic have shaped my values and aspirations, especially in my pursuit of a career in law enforcement. My father came to this country with little more than a dream for a better life. He worked tirelessly, often juggling multiple jobs to provide for our family. Despite the challenges he faced, he always remained optimistic and never wavered in his commitment to giving us a secure and prosperous future. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work, qualities that I have strived to emulate in my own life. One of the most significant habits I have adopted from my father is his strong work ethic. Throughout high school and into my college years at Wheaton College, I have maintained a rigorous schedule, balancing my academic responsibilities with various extracurricular activities and part-time jobs. As a Building Manager at the Balfour-Hood Student Center, I ensure the safety and functionality of the facility while assisting students and visitors. This role requires vigilance, responsibility, and the ability to address issues promptly—skills that are crucial in law enforcement. Another quality I have inherited from my father is the importance of community involvement. My father has always been an active member of our community, participating in local events and helping neighbors in need. Following his example, I have engaged in several community-oriented activities. As a member of the SEO Scholars program, I have completed over 720 hours of college-preparatory courses and participated in numerous workshops focused on academic and career success. This program has emphasized the importance of giving back and staying connected to one’s roots. My experience in the National FFA Organization also reflects my commitment to community and leadership. Serving as a Sentinel, I participated in weekly meetings, led discussions, and prepared for the State Convention. This role taught me the value of teamwork, leadership, and proactive engagement—qualities that are essential in law enforcement. Additionally, my involvement in the National High School Model United Nations has honed my negotiation and communication skills, preparing me to handle diverse and complex situations effectively. Furthermore, my father’s resilience has taught me the importance of staying focused and determined in the face of adversity. This mindset has been crucial in my academic journey, where I have consistently achieved high grades and earned scholarships, such as the Posse Foundation Full Tuition Leadership Scholarship. This resilience will be invaluable in law enforcement, a field that often involves high-pressure situations and requires unwavering commitment to justice and community safety. In summary, my father’s influence has been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. His work ethic, community involvement, and resilience are qualities that I have adopted and that will guide me in making an impactful difference in the community through law enforcement. My academic achievements, leadership experiences, and commitment to service reflect these values and prepare me to contribute positively to society. By following in my father’s footsteps and upholding the values he has instilled in me, I am determined to serve and protect my community, ensuring its safety and well-being for future generations.