Ever since Devin Tracy ’15 was younger, she always wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps towards a career in law enforcement.
After graduating from the New York State Police Academy in January 2016, that dream has actually come true.
Tracy, who played on the women’s tennis team from 2011-15 at the State University of New York at New Paltz, explained that being a student-athlete helped her prepare for this rigorous career.
“New Paltz helped me prepare for my career so much, especially building the strong, steady mindset I need in my career,” said Tracy. “This job is all about teamwork and so was the tennis team at New Paltz. For both tennis and the police force, everyone's individual success leads to team success.”
Tracy played in some difficult tennis matches throughout her four years as a Hawk, helping the team advance to the State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) Championship match every season, but that competitiveness just made Tracy ready for the difficulties of this job.
“There is no real typical day at work. Everyday there is always something different and that's why I love the job so much,” Tracy explained. “At the beginning of the tour, I find out my assignment, patrol the area and answer the 911 calls in my sector.
“The hardest situation I've been in so far is when a missing person comes over the radio,” Tracy continued. “It's very heart breaking to talk with family members who have not seen their loved ones in a few days and you can see the concern all over their faces. But then I remember this is why I took this job, to help those who need it the most.”
When Tracy was looking to attend college and play tennis, head coach Rob Bruley played an important role in her decision.
“What drew me to this school is the surrounding area, Rob Bruley, and the team itself,” Tracy stated. “When I was being recruited, Rob made me feel at home when I visited and so did the team.
“Everyone I spoke to who attended New Paltz loved it and wished they could go back; I never heard one negative thing about the College,” Tracy continued. “The fact it was only two hours away from home also helped my decision.”
Looking back at her time at New Paltz, not only did Tracy specify that playing tennis made her who she is today but the school and the people she met also transformed her as well.
“I have met my closest friends and a pretty important person to me as well,” Tracy said. “I have made great bonds with people from the College and still have great relationships with the Athletic Department today. New Paltz will always have a special place in my heart and it is true what they say ‘There's only one SUNY New Paltz’."
