Blog 4: Project Reflection and Working EQ

The Pentagon 

1. Positive Statement: What positive thing has happened as a result of what you have completed so far. 

One positive result of what I have completed so far is my new found appreciation for all those who serve in law enforcement. Law enforcement is not an easy and is unsuitable for those looking for a walk in the park career. Everyday you face the possibility of being killed just because of your involvement in keeping the peace. You are held to the highest level of scrutiny and your actions speak volumes for not only yourself but law enforcement throughout the country. As my mentor put it "law enforcement is a job that is hard to acquire and so very easy to lose". I refer to America's peacekeepers as heroes now. 

2. EQ Content: Pick a piece of research or your interview. How has it helped you improve your understanding of your topic?

My interview was a very enlightening moment for me, for I gained in-depth information from an officer who has been on the force for several years now. It allowed me to see law enforcement from the perspective of an officer and gain a better understanding of the career. For example, my interview with Officer Sanchez helped me to see that law enforcement is a very tough career but the payout is knowing that you are bettering the community and protecting the innocent. 

3. What has worked for you so far in the senior project?

The service learning has been the part that has worked best for me so far. There is a lot of information to be learned at my Explorer Post and practicing the police scenarios with the Explorers was a fun experience. 

4. What hasn't worked so far?

So far everything is working out fine so far. Diverse research is starting to become more difficult to find online, but I plan to start using books on police to supplement my research. 

5. Finding Value: Based on your experience so far,

• What possible question or questions come to mind regarding what you would like to study this year?
• "What skills or traits help keep an officer calm and alert when performing his day to day duties?" and "How does one continue to improve his or herself to make themselves a better officer?"

• What is your end goal this year with your senior project?
• My end goal for my senior project is to earn the title of Explorer, to continue at my Explorer Post where I will help the local community and attend competitions with the post, and to continue growing into a better citizen for my country. 

• Who would you like to talk to you next? Why? 
• The next person I would like to talk to would be Joe Taylor, a family friend who has been with the LAPD for 15+ years now. He has served on the force through some of the most eventful times in LAPD history and has extensive information on the inner workings of law enforcement. An interview with him would set me on the right path to discovering more about my senior topic.