Mr. Yusnier Gutierrez recently graduated from Florida National University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. In this interview, he shares his goals, dreams, aspirations and what drives him to succeed.
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
Well there are many things I can say about myself. I was born in Havana, Cuba, and came to this country when I was 7 years old. Presently, I am 25 years old. Over the years, I have always made a personal commitment to achieving my goals. Even though at times, it looked like I would never be able to reach them. Everything that I have studied or participated in has given me useful experience like when I joined the Explorers of the Miami Dade Police, at the age of 14. Or when I was in high school, I joined the Air Force JROTC which helped me develop military like discipline, morals and ethics leadership skills. I believe that by working hard, and with dedication and persistence I can overcome any obstacle. All these experiences have helped me pursue my goal of obtaining a university degree.
What motivates you?
The greatest motivation in my life has been my mother. Without her support and confidence in me, I would not have been able to accomplish my goals. Thanks to her, I was able to graduate. One thing she taught me was to never give up on my dreams. Nothing is free nor easy, but not impossible if others can do it, I think that I can do it equally or better.
What are your greatest strength and weakness?
My biggest strength is being persistent in accomplishing or finishing what I have started. My weakness is not knowing how to say no, never giving up or letting things go to the way side.
What has been your most or least rewarding experience?
So far, my most rewarding experience was that I was lucky enough to be selected as the salutatorian for the Class of 2012, becoming a proud founder of Mu-Zeta, which is a chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, Criminal Justice Honor Society. The least rewarding thing for me has been the constant struggle to improve myself.
Personally, how do you define success?
I define success by getting the job done right, being able to work in my chosen profession, and having a wonderful family.
Tell me about your experiences?
My experience comes from the research I’ve done, and the many different people who have honored me by allowing me to participate in their organizations.
Why did you choose to attend Florida National University?
I chose to attend Florida National University because it was essential for me to learn in a more interactive and more concentrated environment. I can say many good things about Florida National University which will have helped me to develop and move forward in my career.
Why did you choose this career?
I chose this career path because it is a profession that I have liked ever since I was a child. In addition, I have always wanted to be able to help good people when they are in trouble. I want to be able to defend the innocent and serve justice to those who deserve it. On the other hand, I want to make a more secure environment, where children can learn that they can achieve great things despite their life situation.
What goals do you have in your career?
I wish to become the chief of police of a local police agency or work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a special agent.
What do you think it takes to be successful in this career?
Persistence and never giving up, striving to be the best and never losing hope of making your dream a reality.
How has your education prepared you for your career?
I think that education makes us wiser, instructs us and prepares us for life and a better future. I have learned many things that I am more than happy to discuss relating to my career and my area of expertise.
Do you have any plans to further your education?
Yes, I plan to get a doctoral degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or Behavioral Science.
For you, which is most important money or career?
For me, working towards a goal and achieving it is the most important thing regardless of the money that a person can earn. From my point of view, working on something that you love and being passionate about your work is what matters most.
What is the message to young people who are looking for a career like yours?
I would tell them to strive and fight for their goals. They should never give up until they have achieved their goals.
This interview was first published in the October/November 2012 issue of Imagen Hialeah magazine.
