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16 PON 04031 MKL 2

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Senior sociology major, with an emphasis in criminology, Jairo Padillo of Chicago, IL., chose to go into law enforcement from his experiences living in his old neighborhood. He lost his several friends to gang activities and violence and Padillo wanted to help change that, school seemed to him like the best way to help. If he were to get a job with the Chicago Police Department, Padillo would look to work in the same neighborhood he grew up in, due his familiarity with the people. He feels knowing the people and the area would be key to helping change. Eventually he would like to work in the FBI. Despite the loss due to crime and violence that Padillo is aware of in the world, his knowledge only motivates him more. He sees that there is a possibility for change. “Complete your dreams,” Padillo said. “Complete your dreams. Don’t give up.” Speaking as a Latino, Padillo feels this is particularly important to minorities. “Don’t become a statistic.”