“My goal is to become a police officer and the diploma program has really helped because it is very focused on developing the skills and abilities that police forces are actually looking for. Over the 8 months I could really see how we built up a comfort level and confidence, doing oral presentations, mock interviews. There was also a definite improvement in my physical skills because 3 days a week we worked on our obstacle course which involves sprinting laps, jumping hurdles, carrying a dead weight, lifting weights. As I neared the end of this program I applied and went through the interview process with the Manitoba government and got accepted for the job of corrections officer for the summer. The diploma program has been a really good experience.”

Consider your future in the Indigenous Police Preparation Diploma Program at http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/dce_ippdinformation

ABOUT JUSTIN

Justin Smith is 22 years old and lives in Lorette, Manitoba. His career goal is to work with the RCMP. He enrolled in The University of Winnipeg's Indigenous Police Preparation Diploma Program. He is in the first graduating class of April 2009.

“One of the things that's been really invaluable is the volunteer work most of us did during this program with the Downtown BIZ patrol. It really helped develop people skills and problem-solving skills, especially when helping those who have addictions. I felt I learned to be professional and keep my composure. The whole program has been very good especially because it offers practical skills, such as doing actual police entrance tests and interviews. I would really encourage people who are interested in policing and corrections to apply because you gain an understanding of what it takes to be effective.”

Consider your future in the Indigenous Police Preparation Diploma Program at http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/dce_ippdinformation