Law enforcement is more than a career path. It is a lifelong commitment to protect, serve, and uphold the values that keep a community safe. My decision to pursue this field comes from a deep respect for public safety and the men and women who dedicate their lives to it. Growing up, I was surrounded by examples of integrity and sacrifice within my community, and I knew early on that I wanted to make a meaningful impact in the same way. Working as a 9-1-1 telecommunicator has strengthened that calling. Every shift reminds me that law enforcement is not just about enforcing laws, but about being a voice of calm during chaos and a source of hope in moments of fear. Through my experience in emergency communications, I have learned how critical every second is in saving lives and maintaining order. That perspective shaped my appreciation for teamwork, accountability, and composure under pressure, traits I plan to carry into the field as a sworn officer. I’ve seen firsthand how much difference clear judgment and empathy can make in crisis situations. I’ve also seen the limitations of what can be done over the phone. Those moments motivate me to step into the field, where I can serve directly, provide safety, and be physically present for the people I now only reach through a headset. I am also pursuing this field because I believe modern law enforcement must evolve. Technology and community relations must work hand in hand. As a licensed drone operator and business owner, I’ve seen how tools like aerial mapping and real-time imagery can support investigations, search-and-rescue operations, and accident reconstruction. I hope to integrate these tools into public safety operations, bridging traditional policing with new technology to make missions faster, safer, and more efficient. I want to be part of a generation of officers who use innovation to protect lives while earning trust through professionalism and transparency. Making a difference in law enforcement means more than wearing a badge. It means being a consistent example of fairness, courage, and compassion. I plan to focus not only on enforcing the law but on building relationships with the community, especially with youth who may need guidance or positive influence. As someone who grew up in a working-class environment, I understand the power of mentorship and visibility. By volunteering with programs like the Mission Police Youth Recruits, I’ve already seen how showing up for young people can shift their perspective on authority and self-worth. I want to continue that work as an officer, showing that law enforcement is about service, not control. Ultimately, I’m choosing this field because I believe in being the person who stands in the gap when others cannot. Whether through communication, technology, or community involvement, I want to use every skill I’ve developed to make a safer, more connected community. Law enforcement is not an easy career, but it is one where purpose outweighs comfort. I hope to honor those who came before me and to be the reason someone believes in the good that still exists in this profession.

The first time I heard the sound of gunfire on the radio, I was sitting in the dimly lit dispatch room about one year in as a 9-1-1 operator. A voice came in through my headset—urgent and relying on me for the next critical step. “SHOTS FIRED, SHOTS FIRED!” In that moment, I realized the weight of responsibility that comes with public safety work. That moment also solidified my desire to one day be on the other end of the radio: out in the field as a law enforcement officer, directly serving and protecting my community. My name is Orlando Loya, and I’m a 20-year-old college student from Mission, Texas. In addition to my work in emergency communications, I am an FAA Part 61 certified drone pilot and the owner of RGV Drone Operations, a business I built to provide affordable aerial photography and videography services in the Rio Grande Valley. My business allows me to combine my passion for technology with my commitment to helping others, whether it’s documenting accident scenes, capturing real estate footage, or assisting with marketing projects for local businesses. My long-term goal is to become a law enforcement officer who integrates modern technology—especially drones—into public safety. I have seen how valuable aerial tools can be for search-and-rescue missions, crime scene documentation, and traffic collision investigations. These innovations can save lives, save time, and bring critical clarity to complex situations. I believe my unique skill set will allow me to bridge the gap between traditional policing and the possibilities that technology offers. Balancing my career, education, and business has been challenging. As a college student, I carry the responsibility of not only pursuing my own goals but also setting an example for my family and community. The financial strain of tuition, books, and other school-related expenses often means working extra hours, which takes time away from studying and advancing my education. While I’m proud of my work ethic, I know that additional support would allow me to dedicate more energy toward academic success without the constant worry of how to cover tuition. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my journey. It would ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my coursework and law enforcement academy preparation without the distraction of financial stress. With this support, I could put more time and attention toward my studies, gain the knowledge and skills necessary for my career, and stay on track toward my goal of serving in law enforcement. Beyond my own ambitions, I want to inspire others in my community to dream bigger. Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, I’ve seen how many young people limit their goals because they believe opportunities are out of reach. I hope my path can show that with determination, skill-building, and the right support, it’s possible to break through those barriers. For me, this scholarship is more than financial help—it’s an opportunity to fully invest in my education and prepare for a career of service. With your support, I can work toward becoming the kind of officer who not only responds to emergencies but also uses technology to prevent them, improve outcomes, and strengthen trust between the community and law enforcement