Get to Know Catelyn Nolan, Criminal Justice student

Welcome to our “Get to Know Blackhawk” series, which uses a Q&A format to showcase the diverse and talented individuals within the college community. Read past articles

Where did you grow up and what high school did you attend?

I grew up in Beloit and attended Parkview High School in Orfordville.

Why did you choose to attend Blackhawk Technical College?

After conducting thorough research, I enrolled in Blackhawk’s Criminal Justice Program. This program stood out to me due to its emphasis on real-life learning and practical application of the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a police officer. I am confident that this program will provide me with the tools and expertise needed to excel in my future profession.

What is your area of study? Is there something in particular that drew you to the program?

Studying criminal justice is my current pursuit. I was immediately drawn to the program because of my lifelong desire to become a police officer. My dad worked for Rock County for 21 years as a patrol deputy, and K9 handler, and was on the SWAT team. My grandfather worked for the City of Beloit Police Department for 18 years as a patrol officer, and field instructor, and served in the bike patrol unit. I am excited to be applying as a police officer soon to follow in my dad and Grandpa Tim’s footsteps. My passion for community relations and public safety has always been strong, and I am confident that this program at Blackhawk Technical College will equip me with the necessary tools to achieve my dream of becoming a future police officer. (Catelyn is pictured above holding her dad's Rock County Deputy Sheriff badge and her grandpa Tim Nolan’s badge.)

What do you like most about Blackhawk?

The Blackhawk program has been an exceptional one-on-one learning experience with my dedicated instructors. Their passion for teaching has allowed me to gain invaluable firsthand knowledge. I owe a great deal of gratitude to my instructors, Mr. Z and Mr. Walsh, for making this program such an amazing experience.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your time at Blackhawk?

At Blackhawk, I've learned the importance of treating everyone with respect. This lesson is consistently emphasized by my instructors on a weekly basis. As I pursue my future career in law enforcement, I intend to apply the valuable insights they have imparted to me.

How has Blackhawk helped you to pursue/complete your goals?

Blackhawk has been crucial in enabling me to achieve my objectives by providing me with invaluable knowledge of the criminal justice system. Due to this knowledge, I was able to secure an esteemed position as a Community Service Officer at the City of Beloit Police Department and I get to work with officers and deputies who have also worked with my Grandpa Tim and my dad. I have been able to successfully apply the skills and insights gained from my Blackhawk instructors to serve the community with confidence and competence.

On your educational journey, have you had to overcome any obstacles or challenges?

Just like any educational journey, I have faced my fair share of challenges. Balancing my school, personal, and work life has been one of the biggest hurdles I've had to overcome. It's crucial to strike a balance between all areas of your life in order to maintain both mental and physical health. Despite the difficulties, I have managed to overcome them and I am determined to keep doing so.

When do you plan to graduate?

Fall 2024

What are your plans for life after Blackhawk?

After Blackhawk, I plan to apply to the Blackhawk Police Academy so that I can fulfill my goal of becoming a police officer for a local department.

What advice do you have for other individuals who are considering Blackhawk?

If you're thinking about going to Blackhawk, it's really important to do your research before making any decisions. Personally, I can tell you that the Criminal Justice Program has been amazing for me. I've grown so much as a person and gained insights into my future career that I don't think I could have gotten anywhere else.

Tell us something about yourself you think people would be surprised to know.

I have 20 chickens.

Who is your biggest influence?

My dad is my biggest influence, as he has shown me how to be a respectful individual. I have looked up to my dad ever since I was little and I aspire to be like him.

What is your favorite TV show?

“On Patrol Live”

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, which food would you pick?

Cheese curds

What/who is your favorite sports team or pro athlete?

The Cubs

If you could have any superpower, which one would you pick?

Invisible

If you could be any animal, which one would you choose?

Dog

If you could hang out with any movie character, who would you choose and why?

Melissa McCarthy because she is in many of my favorite comedy movies.

What’s one thing on your bucket list?

To have a pet Highland cow.

What was your first concert?

Riley Green

What is your dream vacation destination?

Hawaii

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Pepperoni

What/who is your favorite book or author?

“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens