Crystal Lopez is a student police cadet and criminal justice major.

How long have you been a police cadet?

A couple of months.

What made you interested in joining the cadet program?

Well, I want to be a cop later on so I want to experience law enforcement so I know what I will be dealing with. My brother is also a correctional officer.

What are your duties as a police cadet?

I do a lot of parking enforcement to make sure that everyone is parking right and I keep my eyes open for any suspicious activity. I give shuttle rides to people to their cars and sometimes assist instructors in opening their classrooms.

What do you enjoy about your job?

Well, it is something new every day. One day I am giving shuttle rides to people and another day I might be checking people’s cars for permits. I can meet all kinds of people.

What is a misconception about the police cadets?

We are not just narcs or rent-a-cops giving tickets like people sometimes call us. We make sure that people on campus are safe and help out everybody.

What are your hobbies?

I paintball a lot, like every week. It’s my outlet, a way to get rid of stress and also to exercise.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

When people say thank you and smile, because then you know you have made a positive impact.