If given the opportunity to choose any job in the world, I would want to be a police officer. The decision is driven by the desire to serve and protect my community, uphold justice, and contribute to creating a safer and more secure environment for everyone. My passion for criminal justice is deeply rooted in my admiration for police officers, whom I have always viewed as heroes. I want to study criminology because I aspire to one day become a police officer. Being a police officer represents a strong commitment to public service. It involves actively engaging with the community, building trust, and working with others to address societal issues. The role goes beyond law enforcement; it involves being a positive presence, fostering community relationships, and serving as a source of support for those in need. One significant aspect of the job is the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives. Police officers have the chance to help individuals in distress, mediate conflicts, and provide assistance during emergencies. The satisfaction derived from being a source of reassurance and aid in times of crisis is immeasurable. Moreover, as a police officer, the sense of duty extends to safeguarding the well-being of the community, ensuring that all residents can live without fear of crime. In pursuing a career as a police officer, I am inherently drawn to the fields of criminology and forensic science. These studies play a pivotal role in the justice system, providing the tools and knowledge needed to solve crimes and maintain law and order. My excitement lies in the prospect of being at the forefront of criminal investigations, applying cutting-edge forensic techniques, and contributing to the resolution of cases. Criminology captivates me with its exploration of criminal behavior and its underlying causes. Understanding the complex nature of the human mind and the factors that drive individuals to commit crimes is a fascinating challenge. This knowledge not only enhances one's investigative skills but also contributes to a deeper comprehension of societal issues, aiding in the development of effective crime prevention strategies. Forensic science, on the other hand, represents the role of science within police work. The constant advancements in technology provide forensic scientists with powerful tools to analyze evidence, identify perpetrators, and ensure the accuracy of legal proceedings. The prospect of working with state-of-the-art techniques such as DNA analysis and fingerprinting is both thrilling and intellectually stimulating. In conclusion, my interests in a career as a police officer with a passion for criminology and forensic science creates a synergy that is both personally fulfilling and socially impactful. My lifelong admiration for police officers as heroes fuels my dedication to studying criminology, with the ultimate goal of becoming a police officer and contributing to the safety and well-being of my community.

In recent years, the strained relationship between law enforcement agencies and the African American population in the United States has become a pressing concern. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive and sustained effort from law enforcement agencies to rebuild trust, foster positive interactions, and work toward a more equitable justice system. A crucial aspect of this improvement involves revisiting and enhancing training programs for law enforcement officers. Cultural sensitivity and diversity awareness should be at the forefront of these programs, with a specific focus on addressing implicit biases. Officers need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to understand and navigate the unique challenges faced by the African American community. Training should go beyond mere compliance and emphasize building genuine connections with the communities they serve. Community-oriented policing is an effective strategy to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the African American population. Agencies should actively engage with community leaders, local organizations, and residents to understand their concerns and priorities. Establishing open lines of communication and collaboration can help break down stereotypes and foster mutual respect. Building relationships based on trust and understanding is essential for creating a positive and supportive environment. Transparency and accountability are paramount in rebuilding trust. Law enforcement agencies should adopt and publicize clear policies regarding the use of force, racial profiling, and officer accountability. Community members should have access to information about the processes involved in investigating alleged misconduct. Timely communication about the outcomes of investigations, along with any actions taken, is crucial for demonstrating accountability and maintaining transparency. Positive community engagement is another key element in improving relationships. Law enforcement officers should be actively involved in community events, outreach programs, and initiatives that address social issues. By participating in these activities, officers become more than just enforcers of the law; they become allies and contributors to the community's well-being. Positive interactions outside of law enforcement contexts help humanize officers and build connections that extend beyond moments of crisis. In conclusion, the road to improving relationships between law enforcement agencies and the African American population requires a multifaceted approach. Comprehensive training, community-oriented policing, transparency, and positive community engagement are all integral components of this transformative process. Law enforcement agencies must commit to ongoing efforts aimed at building trust, understanding, and collaboration. By doing so, they can contribute to the creation of a justice system that treats every individual with dignity and fairness, fostering a safer and more cohesive society for all.

The passing of my grandfather, succumbing to a heart attack, I believe marked a turning point in my life, prompting deep reflection on my past actions. At that point, I realized the need for me to change how I was, driven by a desire to honor my grandfather's memory and make amends for my earlier shortcomings. Witnessing the death of one of my loved ones led me to think about my behavior, particularly during a time when I hadn't been the best version of myself, causing my parents a lot of stress as I wasn't the best student or son at the time. I didn't care much about school and I ignored my parent's reprimands as I kept not caring about school. The death of my grandfather was a big wake-up call for me, letting me think back on all the stress I had caused my parents and teachers. So I embarked on a journey of self-improvement, determined to become the best version of myself that I could be. The grief and thoughts following my grandfather's passing served as a potent motivation for me to become a better person, recognizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and kindness in my interactions with others. As I slowly began to work on myself I began to improve in school, I found solace and motivation in the memory of my grandfather. His memory became a guiding light, urging me to strive for continuous improvement and to contribute positively to the lives of those around me. In considering a path in the criminal justice realm, the lessons learned from this experience have instilled in me a profound empathy for individuals facing challenges and adversity. I aspire to use my own journey of growth to help others who may be going through something similar to me and to help others become the best versions of themselves. My career goals in the criminal justice field are rooted in a want to help and protect others. By drawing upon my journey, I aim to contribute to a system that not only holds individuals accountable for their actions but also provides opportunities for redemption and positive transformation. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, I intend to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by crime, helping them find a path toward a better future. My hope is to one day be able to help my community as a law enforcement agent.