Khalika Powell ’20, a New York City Police Department (NYPD) cadet and APPLE Corps student, has big plans for her future. She wants to become a police officer and work as a family therapist. “After I graduate John Jay, I hope to join the NYPD as an officer and also attend graduate school,” she says, noting her plans to earn her doctorate in Family Therapy. “My long-term goal is to have my own practice and to help families deal with their issues through therapy and mediation.” As her final semester at John Jay nears its end, and her bachelor’s degree in Criminology is in clear sight, Powell’s looking back at the journey she’s had at the College and the role it’s played in helping her become the person she is today. “Without John Jay, I would have never discovered my love for helping communities and families. Being at John Jay and in APPLE Corps groomed me into a better student and a better person.”

Becoming a John Jay Student
Wanting a criminal justice education that would equip her with the skillset she needed for a successful career in law enforcement, Powell chose to come to John Jay. “The College offers all the courses I wanted to take to become a well-rounded law enforcement officer,” says Powell. And, as an APPLE Corps student, she found a supportive environment where she was motivated and encouraged to pursue her goals. “APPLE Corps definitely had a major impact on my life. I don’t think I would be in the same mental and emotional state if it hadn’t been for them,” says Powell. “The APPLE Corps team really uplifted me. They reassured me of my abilities, stood by my side when I was unsure of myself, and helped strengthen my talents.”

Finding a Passion for Public Service
An internship with the national learning collaborative Common Justice: HealingWorks, which gives young men of color the opportunity to heal from the violence and trauma experienced within their communities, proved to be an eye-opening experience for Powell. “It demonstrated the different ways we as advocates can seek justice, create reform, and really help change people’s lives,” she says. The experience also reinforced Powell’s dream of becoming both a police officer and a family therapist. “I’ve always been passionate about healing and restoring communities and families. The internship and my experiences at John Jay have deepened that passion.”

Looking Forward to Graduation
While the Covid-19 health crisis means social distancing still has to be practiced, Powell isn’t letting it put a damper on her personal celebration. “I will remain in a festive mood and continue to celebrate my journey at John Jay and my achievement. I will be surrounded by those who have always supported me and shown me unconditional love,” she says. As for her John Jay family, Powell wishes she could celebrate with them in person, but knows their support is always with her. “I want to take a moment and really thank my amazing, supportive friends and the staff at APPLE Corps. Because of them, I was able to build a network of people who motivated me and supported my dreams. And that’s my wish for every John Jay student,” she says. “Remember, it’s okay to not have all the answers. Reach out to your peers and professors when you need help. If John Jay has taught me anything, it’s not to be afraid to put myself out there. Be bold, be persistent and be intentional about your goals.”