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2022 grad on track for Master's Degree

2022 grad on track for Master's Degree

2022 Newark High School graduate Rylan Celajes graduated from Bowling Green State University with a Criminal Justice degree after just two years. She spent this summer as an intern for the Toledo Secret Service and is on track to earn her Master's Degree in 2025.

A Call to College recently caught up with Rylan, and is currently featuring her story outside the A Call to College offices at NHS. Here is more about Rylan and her experiences:

When did you know you wanted to go to college and how did you choose your major?

Being a first-generation college student, I have always known that I wanted to go to college, but I was not sure if it would be possible and what it would entail. The Criminal Justice field has always been something of interest to me, and when deciding my major, I was choosing between Criminal Justice and Forensic Science. When I realized that Bowling Green State University offered the major of Criminal Justice with a Forensic Investigation Specialization, I knew that the major would be perfect for me. 

You graduated from Newark High School in 2022 - where are you in your educational journey today? 

In August of 2024, I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree. I will continue school to pursue my Master’s degree, and plan to graduate in May of 2025.

Share a meaningful college experience with us.

I have had many meaningful college experiences, but the ones in particular would be the conference that I was able to attend, and present at. I have attended both the Midwestern Criminal Justice Association, and the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences conferences, and was able to listen to other practitioners in the field, as well as present my own research. 

What are some habits you practiced while in high school that helped you be successful in college? 

Some habits that have helped me to be successful have been active participation, developing a daily routine, and openness to ask questions. I have attended various events on campus which has not only helped me to grow professionally, but personally as well. I have been able to meet different people, and learn more than I would if I did not. A daily routine has also been very beneficial, and organizing that routine in a calendar or planner has helped me to stay organized. 

Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years? 

I plan to graduate with my Master’s degree and pursue the Secret Service’s training academy after. My goal is to become 
a special agent within the U.S. Secret Service.

Are there steps to enter the Secret Service?

Agents are required to complete an 18-week training course covering both divisions of Secret Service work (protective and financial). The course explores concepts such as criminal financial activities, physical protection techniques, emergency medicine and device fraud. Agents also develop their marksmanship and survival skills. Training is conducted at FLETC (Federal Law Enforcement Training Center) located in Georgia, New Mexico, South Carolina and Maryland.


What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memories are any events where we 
could all get together. Whether it was sporting events, dances, or pep rallies, I enjoyed being around everyone.