Like many recent high school graduates in search of direction, Larson looked to the armed forces for structure. He joined the Army Reserves and started basic training the summer between his junior and senior year in high school.
“My mom was not happy about that decision,” Larson shares. “She was hoping for a different direction.”
Though Larson enjoyed being part of the Reserves where his job focused on power generation equipment repair and his Advanced Individual Training (AIT) prepared him to be a generator mechanic, he still wanted to explore other interests.
In the spring of 2013, he was accepted to Lock Haven University Clearfield’s Criminal Justice program where his studies concentrate on conservation law.
“I knew I found my career path right away,” Larson says. “The courses, the faculty and the campus are just right for me.”
During the summer of 2016, Larson secured an internship at the Clearfield County Department of Emergency Management.
“It is a fantastic experience that complements my course work,” Larson says. “I am working on their social media, planning events, helping to write grants, and many other things. I have taken part in active shooter training and earned a certificate in Radiological Accident Clean-up. The internship has been a valuable part of my education.”
LHU Clearfield Criminal Justice faculty member Dr. Michael McSkimming shares, “Kyle is a shining star. He is an outstanding student and I am certain he will have a successful career.”
Larson’s career plans now focus on joining the Pennsylvania State Police, with the goal of becoming a detective. A longer range goal is to earn a Master’s degree in counter-terrorism. “I want to be able to stop incidents before they occur,” he says.
Larson will graduate from Lock Haven University in December of 2016. “All of my experiences – the Reserves, my classes, our faculty, the internship, and others – have opened my eyes to the possibilities. I am very excited about policing and serving others.”