I became a Reserve Officer six years ago. I am a private junior/senior high school teacher who teaches Math Analysis, Geometry, Accounting and Computer. I am my school’s Testing Coordinator and the Director of School Development.

Growing up, I was always a bit of a tom-boy. I liked being active and helping people. I wanted to become a Police Officer, but my parents encouraged me to pursue either the education, medical or legal professions. I graduated from UCLA, became a teacher and got married.

Shortly after I was married, I discovered the LAPD Reserve program while surfing the internet. The Reserve program sounded like the best way for me to pursue my interest in police work, serve my community and still maintain my “regular” life.

I love being a Reserve Officer. I know it sounds selfish, but I think I get more out of it than the City does. I see the good and the bad of society. I feel the adrenaline rush of speeding to the scene of an emergency and anticipating what lies ahead. I have the opportunity to treat people in need with dignity, compassion and understanding.

In high school, I participated in food drives and volunteered at a local hospital. In college, I tutored at-risk kids. While those experiences were rewarding, nothing compares to being a LAPD Reserve Officer.

LAPD is a cut above any other agency. After making it through the thorough hiring process and the same rigorous training as full-time Officers, you enter into a family that has sworn to make it their life’s work to protect and serve others. No other type of volunteer work brings you that sense of satisfaction or camaraderie.

The wonderful thing about being a Reserve is the flexibility. You work your shifts around your life. Meetings are in the evenings and trainings are available on the weekends.

Think about what a wonderful City this would be if everyone took enough of an interest in their community to give back to it.