By Alan Wong | Observer Correspondent
Photo by Brianna Stevens
Criminal Justice major, Nathan Oliva completed a one-semester internship recently at the Gardner Police Department for the opportunity to obtain experience he would not have otherwise gotten from being in the school.He said internships are encouraged for all Criminal Justice majors.
Oliva said, “It’s a terrific way to get into the books [at the station] and there’s a possible chance they might even remember you, which is obviously beneficial.” Oliva participated in this internship because it would be on his resume and he needed something to get his foot in the door.
“Gaining experience in the field is crucial; when you’re out on the job you need to know your knowledge,” said Oliva.
Oliva shadowed police officers Jeffrey LaBonte, Corey Chauvette, and Ryan Coates. The internship also showed Oliva how it feels to be dispatched and to join roll calls for officers.
When in the field, interns can answer calls and go on rides along with the officers to gain “on the clock” experience.
Oliva had many interesting experiences during the internship. He said that he accompanied Officer Coates during a foot-chase after a criminal, holding cocaine, tried to flee his vehicle. The man was arrested because he resisted arrest while trying to toss the evidence, which Oliva was asked to retrieve and bring back to Officer Coates. Another situation Oliva experienced was with Officer Jeffrey LaBonte, who went on a chase to confiscate five grams of heroin.
Oliva’s advice for other Criminal Justice majors: “To defuse a situation is a skill you can’t learn but have to experience, really.” When asked about any last thoughts, “I did this for the field experience and to highlight my college experience,” said Oliva.
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