I currently have 18 years on and have done the following assignments or collateral duties: Investigations, Rangemaster, FTO, Problem Oriented Policing team member, and Statewide Response Team. I am brother-in-law to fallen Riverside Police Officer Ryan Patrick Bonaminio and was partners with fallen Riverside Police Officer Michael Daniel Crain.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
I had such a great experience with LEPSL. I would like to help others make the best decision for them and choose whether or not to pursue a graduate degree from LEPSL.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
I chose LEPSL because of the reputation of the University of San Diego coupled with the flexible schedule geared towards law enforcement professionals. LEPSL made a master’s degree obtainable for the ever-changing shift work schedule.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
When starting LEPSL I was concerned if I could handle the course work around my schedule. This thought soon went away when I learned the workflow of the program.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
Everything one learns in LEPSL is immediately applicable to their job in the law enforcement profession. LEPSL has made me much more prepared than my peers to accomplish any task the profession has to offer.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
The best advice I have for a prospective LEPSL student is to research on the LEPSL website the courses and work flow. It is very achievable despite our busy shift work and lives. The hardest part is just getting started. Once you are in the flow of the courses it becomes much easier.
What was your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
The best part about LEPSL are the professors and people you will meet along the way. Dr. Fritsvold and Professor Duane Voss stand out in my mind as my mentors. In addition, I made friends with my fellow students from across the country.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
During LEPSL I balanced shift work, my family, my health, training for the U.S. Police and Fire Games, and Baker 2 Vegas.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
I stayed motivated during LEPSL by taking it one week or one assignment at a time. I tried to take it one thing at a time, little by little, and not get overwhelmed with the full course load.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2020