I'm a nontraditional student returning to college at 29 years old to pursue a career in law enforcement. Currently I own and operate a small automotive restoration business where I specialize in vehicles pre-1980s. Although I am passionate about restoring classic cars and plan to remain involved in the car community after closing my business, I want to pursue a career in law enforcement so that I can help those in need during some of the hardest and more stressful moments of their lives. This fall will be my last term working towards an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Degree at Chemeketa Community College. After receiving my associate degree I will be transferring to Portland State University where I will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. While I am attending college I will be actively applying with some of the agencies in my area so that I can hopefully begin working in the field as I finish up my degree. I've already begun taking the steps towards this major career shift by closing down the physical location of my business and not accepting any new clients. Although I have not started working in law enforcement yet, I have already begun to establish relationships with some of the agencies in my area. One way that I've done this is by volunteering during special events. Another way is by going on ride alongs. This fall I will also be doing an internship with my local police department. I'm hoping to get as much hands on experience as possible before landing a position so that I'm the best officer I can be.