Noelle Becker '18

Campus Safety Sergeant Noelle Becker understands that real-world experience and quality internships can play a role in the cultivation of career skills. Becker developed a deep desire to enter law enforcement when she was 13 years old and suddenly lost her father. She recalls, "I felt nothing but admiration and gratitude for the officers who tried so hard to save my dad that night." When she came to YCP, Becker immediately immersed herself in the Campus Safety program. She learned how to write reports, dispatch calls, monitor campus cameras, supervise fellow campus safety officers, and handle intoxicated or injured students.

In just two years, Becker worked her way up the ranks from recruit to corporal to sergeant. When it came time to select an internship, Becker jumped on the opportunity to work with the York Area Regional Police. Over the course of three months, she learned from full-time officers as they rescued individuals from overturned cars, conducted property searches, issued tickets, took criminals to central booking, investigated burglaries, and even moved deer off the road.

While Becker has enjoyed all of this field experience, she also understands the value of the classroom and has made the most of the numerous courses offered to Criminal Justice majors. Although she knows the path will not be easy, Becker explains, "My life goal is to work with the NYPD as either a Special Victims Detective or a Canine Officer." She is confident that the strong foundation laid by her four years at YCP will prove invaluable to her success in those endeavors.

written by Jennifer Hindley '17