Today we’d like to introduce you to Jocelyn Castillo.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Jocelyn. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I wanted a career where I could make even the smallest difference in people’s lives. I got interested in law enforcement through movies and TV, honestly and I knew I wanted to be a police officer since middle school I don’t know how, but it was just one of those things that I was certain about. It took a little convincing, (not only being a girl, but also the youngest of 3) but for the most part my family was always supportive which helped a lot. While I was getting my bachelor’s in criminal justice, I did consider going another route with my degree, like the forensic side of law enforcement or even teaching, but nothing else truly felt right. I graduated in 2017 and started the process to get in to the training academy.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was definitely not a smooth road. As I was starting my process to get into the academy, we had a sudden family emergency that brought all of us to a halt with our daily routines. I had to quit my part time job and stay home for several months before I could get back into the process. Once we were able to get back on our feet as a family, I continued with my plans. After another few months of interviews, tests, and just waiting by the phone and refreshing emails, I finally got accepted and started the academy this past April. Those 6 months of training taught me more about myself than I ever knew I had in me. It took a great amount of discipline and literal blood, sweat, and tears to make it to the end. I wouldn’t take a second of it back, it was truly what I needed to build myself up and realize how strong one can really be when they are motivated.
To other women on their journey, don’t give up. Turn obstacles that come up along the way into learning experiences and then keep pushing forward. You will meet your goal, but life just wouldn’t be interesting if everything came easy. And like I like to tell people, if I can make it through those six months, you can do anything too!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about your business – what should we know?
I am currently a probationary police officer on the training program, which lasts for about another 6 months. This includes riding with a trainer on patrol and then being evaluated. I’ve been enjoying it a lot so far! I love the fact that each day is something different. I also love being able to give back to others this way. I’m very excited to keep learning and growing throughout my career.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
My grandmother, my mother, and my sisters. These are all women who set a great example for me and gave me so much support throughout this journey. I’ve definitely been able to learn the meaning of hard work watching them succeed, even with their own personal struggles. I was very close to my grandmother growing up, and even though she is no longer here, I still do everything to make her proud.
And of course, the 8 women I graduated the academy with. All of us from different backgrounds, but all achieved the same goal. They all hold a special place in my heart as they truly helped me to keep pushing forward day in and day out. As women in what is considered a man’s job, I believe each of us have something to offer that’ll prove women can absolutely do anything regardless of societal beliefs.
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Jocelyn Castillo
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