Student Spotlight: Eugene Jankowitz

We had the opportunity to sit down with Police Studies student, Eugene Jankowitz, to discuss the program and a little about himself.

ACC’s Police Studies program is an innovative and intensive eight-month certificate program that is the first of its kind in Manitoba. ACC has successfully developed strong relationships and partnerships with Brandon Police Service, Manitoba Justice, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Aboriginal Police services to develop the professional program you’re looking for.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Eugene Jankowitz, a Police Studies student, and ask him some questions about himself and his time so far at Assiniboine Community College.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi, my name is Eugene. I was born in South Africa and did all of my schooling there. In 2013 my family and I immigrated to Canada and we moved to Brandon shortly after.

Have you been to Brandon before? How are you enjoying your time here?

Before moving here two years ago I had never been to Brandon. It’s quite different but I’m pretty familiar with everything now. The snow doesn’t bother me. It snowed every couple of years over there as well, although it disappeared after a couple days. We experienced cold weather too but it was a little different.

What made you decide to come to ACC? Why did you choose Police Studies?

Pretty much the Police Studies program. I was looking for a change and really liked the idea of policing and law enforcement. Policing offers great variety day-to-day and always has new challenges requiring problem solving—It’s not just an office job.

How has your experience been so far?

I’m really enjoying it. The first week was pretty tough though—lots of body aches. The second week was a little better and the third week has been the best yet. As far as the classroom portion I really like learning about the various types of laws and how to apply them.

Are you involved in any activities outside of college?

Not a lot right now but soon I’ll be volunteering my time at a kitchen in downtown Brandon. The Police Studies program requires students to get in a number of volunteer hours.

Did you do anything to prepare yourself for the Police Studies program?

I cycled for the three months leading up to the first day. I should have actually cycled a lot more—now that I’m here. I also started eating a lot healthier, cutting out things like carbonated drinks.

My high school was a lot like the Police Studies program as far as the dress code. We had to wear uniforms and ties so I’m used to it.

Has anything surprised you about the program so far?

So far just POPAT (Police Officers Physically Abiliies Test). Everyone said it was going to be hard but it’s not too bad. Don’t get me wrong it is challenging, but not near as hard as I thought it would be.

Can you explain what POPAT is? What was your first experience like?

POPAT is a standardized test of physical abilities. It’s a test that everyone needs to pass in order to continue with the hiring process later on. To pass we have to complete the course in under a certain time. Not only do we have to finish the course under the time limit but we also have to do everything correctly or we’ll get penalized.

We’ve only done the course once so far. Unfortunately I never passed due to some penalties. We only get three attempts, the first one in September, second in December and the final one in April.

What are your classmates and instructors like?

It’s fun to be around everyone, we all motivate each other. I like working with each of my instructors, they help push us and put in lots of time with each student.

It’s only been a few weeks but is there anything in particular you’re excited learn about?

I’m looking forward to traffic control and the various learning the different divisions of law.

Do you have any advice for potential students looking to take the Police Studies program?

Try to get as fit possible before coming into the course. Make sure you have an interest in law to begin with and come into the course for the right reasons.

Do you have any plans for after graduation?

I was planning to apply for the city police but from what I understand I may have some issues due to my color blindness. There are many other paths I could take with different correction facilities.

What’s something about you that would surprise people?

Not so much a surprise but nobody really knows my accent. I’ve had people think I’m from England, Australia, or even Norway.

What’s your favorite food?

Meat, anything with meat.

Do you have any favorite TV shows/movies or hobbies?

I really like to watch Family Guy, The Simpsons, South Park and all of that kind of crude humor. I’m also a fan of Japanese anime. As far as movies go, basically any comedies.

I enjoy playing chess and I love watching Rugby. I don’t play Ruby anymore but I used to.

Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with us Eugene!

Thank you.