Published: Friday September 18, 2009
Corporal Nicola Brown is all too familiar with the negative perceptions of people in the police force and, with that in mind, the recent master's graduate is intent on changing that image, while paving the way for others to follow.
"A lot of people have the perception that once you're a police officer you're a 'dunce'. Very rarely do they think that police officers are smart or they can do anything," said Brown.
It was this image that inspired her to shake off the stereotypical shackles that she faces in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).
Brown is attached to the Services Branch of the JCF and her love for her job means that she thinks not only about herself. "I want personal development and growth, not just for myself but for the JCF. I want to give back to the organisation," she explained.
She said that, over the next 10 years, she wants to be in the top tier of her job as she has been advancing her education for more than 10 years in the force. She acquired an associate degree and a bachelor's degree from Excelsior Community College, then a master of arts in criminal justice (dean's list) with specialisation in investigative techniques and the study and treatment of drug and alcohol abuse. Brown finished her master's in May, at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in the United States.
Positive trend
The corporal has many inspirations that guide her, one being a desire to create a positive trend for her younger siblings, as she is the first child for both parents. "I want to be able to lead by example, go to college and hope that some day all of them will decide that I wanna be like my big sister," she said, smiling.
Brown grew up in Frankfield, Clarendon, and always saw police officers at a cookshop that her guardian, Thelma Henry, owned. Her love affair began there and then.
"They were always so neat and so clean," she reminisced, her eyes fluttering as she spoke.
Sergeant Eileen Stevens, Brown's supervisor, confirmed her dedication to her work. "She is a hard worker, dedicated and can be relied on. She is a team player and good to work with. She always encourages others to study and we are proud of her."
Still beaming from her recent achievement, Brown had a word of advice for police personnel who are reluctant to further their studies.
"The organisation is changing, and they have to prepare themselves if they intend to be a part of that change," she said, her eyes steady and her face serious.
As for those who are on the road but feel like giving up, Brown said they should stay strong.
"Keep going and, once you get to the end of the tunnel and you don't see that light, just go and turn it on because it's just there waiting on you."
"Keep going and, once you get to the end of the tunnel and you don't see that light, just go and turn it on because it's just there waiting on you."