MARIETTA—Washington State College of Ohio Student of the Month, Che’ Venoy is flexing academically as she simultaneously pursues a second associate degree and bachelor’s degree. Greater still, she’s doing it all while working long hours at the Washington County Sheriff’s Department.
Venoy has always wanted to work in law enforcement. “When I was little I dreamed of being a cop, and with the way the world is now, I wanted to make a difference,” acknowledged Venoy. Last spring, in pursuit of that aspiration, she earned her associate degree in Criminal Justice Technology from Washington State.
“I decided to pursue criminal justice to be the change in the police force we so desperately need. Hopefully, I can help a lot of people along the way,” said Venoy.
With an ultimate career goal of becoming a homicide detective, she recognized that she would need additional education. Her first step was to enroll in WSCO’s Peace Officer Basic Academy (POBA), a requirement for employment as a law enforcement professional in Ohio.
Not wanting to lose momentum in pursuit of her goal, she decided to simultaneously enroll in the criminal justice bachelor’s program at West Virginia University – Parkersburg. Admittedly, the juggling act has been a challenge, but Venoy said success is in her approach.
“Being successful as a student is a mindset. If you want to pass with good grades, you find a way.”
Off-setting her full-time load academically, Venoy also works 12-hour shifts for the sheriff’s department. While she doesn’t leave herself much leisure time, her advice to others is the same message she uses to maintain her own motivation—never give up on your dreams.
“Not every day is easy,” admitted Venoy. “Regardless of what happens and who you lose along the way, just keep going. Looking at the big picture can be intimidating. Take it one step at a time.”
Venoy is a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society and active in the WVU Parkersburg and the WSCO criminal justice clubs. This spring she will graduate from the POBA program and will complete her bachelor’s degree next year. Long-term she’s set her sites on earning a master’s degree and wants to eventually use her knowledge and experience to teach in the field.
