Devin Humphreys is not your typical sorority girl. Her favorite color is camo, she’s a superb athlete, and she can be found rocking a highlighter vest patrolling campus as a Police Cadet. Devin’s spunky attitude is necessary to fuel her fast pace life. She’s the president of Club Lacrosse, a Chi Omega, and is well on her way towards her goal of being a first responder. We were lucky enough to snag a few minutes of Devin’s very busy schedule to ask her a few questions about balancing the life of a college student and member of law enforcement.
What activities are you involved in on campus?
I’m a Chi Omega, the President of Club Lacrosse, member of the criminology fraternity Lamda Alpha Epsilon, I play basketball and flag football for mason’s co-ed intramural sports, and I’m a Mason Police Cadet.
How do you balance all your activities with school and a social life?
I have to keep everything down to T when it comes to planning. All my free time gets taken by one of those activities. I really haven’t had a day off since winter break, there’s always another activity to do.
What drives you to be so involved?
I was this involved in High School as well. So coming to college I wanted to make the best of the four years that I was here. I don’t want to look back and say that I slept through college.
What’s it like being a Police Cadet?
At first it was difficult. Being a college student and working in law enforcement can be a bit tricky because people tend to think you’re always trying to get them in trouble. But as I continued to work for the department I saw that people began to respect me more.
Why is it important for you to be a Police Cadet?
As criminology major it definitely looks good on my resume. I also just want to keep people safe. This job is not about busting people, we’re out there to keep people safe and make sure they’re not putting themselves or anyone else at risk. I’ve seen a change over the years of students starting to respect this idea that we’re just there to protect them and not ruin a good time.
Are there any perks to being a Police Cadet?
Well we get paid for one thing, so being a Police Cadet is my main job. And it looks really good on a resume. We also get to meet really interesting people in law enforcement and the city of Fairfax. Our name stands out so when we want to apply for police departments it will help give us the extra boost to get the job.
Who would you say is one of your role models?
I work with one of the Lieutenants, Lieutenant Milan; she’s one of George Mason police officers. I really look up to her because she always has a smile on her face and is always willing to help the cadets and give us advice. I respect how she has conducts herself in a professional manner yet still comes off as approachable.
Do you have any advice for students who want to go into law enforcement?
Take advantage of every opportunity. If you don’t think there is one than you’re not looking hard enough. I’ve been involved in law enforcement activities since High School. People are always willing to take you on as a volunteer or have you help the department in some way. Also, keep your nose clean.