Celebrating our Graduates: Cole Burdick
Career Program: Criminal Justice
Originally From: Ripon
Current Residence: Appleton
Age: 20
Years of Attendance at FVTC: Fall 2022
Cole Burdick will provide the student address at the FVTC Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19.
Cole is graduating with an associate degree in Criminal Justice. He will enter the FVTC Law Enforcement Training Academy next month.
Why did you choose to study this field?
It's a decision rooted in my passion for wanting to serve my community in a positive and impactful way, and a desire to make a tangible difference within my community. I want to make others feel safe while doing their day-to-day tasks.
Tell us how you came to choose FVTC for your education.
The answer lies in its reputation for excellence in education, especially in the field of criminal justice. The college's commitment to hands-on learning, experienced faculty and cutting-edge resources made it the obvious choice for someone like me, eager to dive deep into the complexities of the criminal justice system.
What's been the most rewarding part of your educational journey at FVTC?
The most rewarding part of this journey of life has been the overwhelming support and help from instructors that has guided me into finding my core values and landing a job at a police department that shares the same values. I have made friendships with not only classmates, but also instructors. Friendships that will last me a lifetime.
What was the most difficult part?
I would say the most difficult part of college was trying to juggle working long hours while taking 5-6 classes a semester. I start my day at 7 a.m. and go to class until I work at night until 10:30 p.m.
Tell us about your plans after graduation.
Upon graduation, I will return to my hometown of Ripon, where I have been hired by the Ripon Police Department. I will be sworn in as an officer later this month and will enter FVTC’s Law Enforcement Training Academy in June.
What will you do on graduation day or in the future to celebrate graduation?
My celebration will start when I successfully complete the law enforcement academy in early October. After that I will be a full-time patrol officer for the City of Ripon. I feel that I will be able to celebrate the most when I can serve and protect my community full time.