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Criminal Justice Lecture Series

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All Criminal Justice Lectures are available and open to the public through Zoom.

Criminal Justice Lecture Series Archives.

From Student to Street Cop: Personal Perspective on Entering the Law Enforcement Profession

January 24, 2024 | 1:10 p.m.

Photo of Calvin Wentworth standing at a podium in a stadium talking.

Abstract: The law enforcement profession is challenging to prepare for as a student due to its adapting and demanding nature. College students who seek a career in law enforcement still face many hurdles after graduation, including the hiring process, the police academy, and varying field training programs. Calvin Wentworth discusses his experiences transitioning from a college student to a police officer, along with the applicability of a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice to the everyday life of a street cop. Healthy habits and a commitment to learning can set you apart.

Bio: Calvin Wentworth, B.S., has been a sworn police officer of the New Britain, Connecticut, Police Department since May of 2020. As a patrol officer, he has investigated incidents that include family violence, motor vehicle theft, human trafficking, and more. Most recently, Wentworth has been trained as a field training officer, giving him the opportunity to train and evaluate probationary police officers after they complete the police academy. Wentworth earned his Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Western New England University in 2019. He was born and raised in Union, Connecticut, and continues to reside in Connecticut with his wife and daughter.