From Service to Success: Raul Rolon's Journey at Herzing University
When Raul Rolon decided to pursue higher education while working as a law enforcement officer in New York City, he wasn't just planning for retirement, he was building a foundation for his future. As a 2024 graduate with a Bachelor's Degree earned Summa Cum Laude, Raul exemplifies how dedication, strategic planning and perseverance can lead to academic excellence and new career opportunities.
Finding the Right Fit
Raul's journey to Herzing began with a recommendation from the Fraternal Order of Police. After carefully reviewing eight recommended colleges and reading numerous positive reviews, he chose Herzing University.
"I'm confident I made the right decision, and I'm grateful for the opportunities and experiences Herzing has provided," says Raul, who found Herzing's reputation among prospective students particularly compelling.
Preparing for a Second Career
With 22 years of service in law enforcement, Raul knew early retirement was in his future. His foresight led him to begin his studies at Herzing while still working as an officer.
"Knowing that I would be retiring young—after serving 22 years—I wanted to prepare for the next phase of my career," Raul explains.
After officially retiring in February 2025, Raul decided to take a well-deserved break before pursuing his next professional chapter. With plans to seek a full-time position after summer 2025, he feels confident that his bachelor's degree from Herzing will open new doors of opportunity.
Academic Achievement and Critical Thinking
Among his academic accomplishments at Herzing, Raul is particularly proud of his capstone project focusing on the Boston Bombing. This research allowed him to analyze the event from multiple perspectives, examining its impact on public safety, law enforcement response and community resilience.
"Through this project, I applied critical thinking and investigative skills to explore key findings and solutions related to crisis management," he shares. "It was a challenging yet rewarding experience that deepened my understanding of emergency preparedness and security measures."
Professional Growth and Personal Development
Raul credits Herzing with reinforcing valuable skills that benefit both his professional and personal life.
"Herzing helped me grow by reinforcing discipline and organization. Throughout my studies, I learned the importance of time management and critical thinking," Raul reflects. "The rigorous coursework prepared me for the next chapter in my career, instilling confidence in my abilities."
More importantly, Raul discovered that "continuous learning and self-improvement are key to success in any field."
Community Impact Through Service
During his law enforcement career, Raul strived to be a positive role model for young people, fostering trust and respect within the community. He often engaged with troubled youth, guiding them toward making safe and responsible choices.
"My presence in the communities I serve provides opportunities for meaningful conversations, breaking down barriers and building relationships based on mutual understanding," he says. "I work to create a safe environment where young individuals feel supported and empowered to reach their potential through education, guidance and encouragement."
Building Professional Connections
As a recent graduate, Raul has already begun building his professional network through connections with fellow Herzing alumni, faculty and students on LinkedIn.
"These relationships will potentially enrich my professional network and open doors to new opportunities," he says. "I look forward to maintaining and strengthening these connections, fostering collaboration and exploring future partnerships."
Advice for Current and Future Students
Drawing from his successful academic journey, Raul offers encouragement to current and prospective Herzing students:
"Success at Herzing starts with a mindset of dedicating yourself to obtaining your degree. Whether you're just beginning or nearing graduation, embrace every learning opportunity with enthusiasm and curiosity."
He recommends staying proactive by seeking guidance from professors, connecting with peers and utilizing university resources to strengthen skills. Equally important is maintaining balance: "Balance your studies with self-care—hard work and maintaining your well-being are important."
Above all, Raul emphasizes belief in oneself: "The journey may have challenges, but with perseverance, passion and a commitment to growth, you'll be well-prepared for a bright future!"
The Herzing Difference
Having attended three other online programs before Herzing, Raul has a unique perspective on what makes the university stand out.
"Herzing stands out due to its commitment to transparency, organization and academic excellence," he explains. "I found Herzing more structured, straightforward and stimulating. Herzing provided clear communication, well-organized coursework and rigorous academic challenges."
For Raul, "Herzing's emphasis on quality education and student engagement makes it a truly unique institution."
As he prepares for the next chapter in his professional journey, Raul carries forward not just his degree but also the valuable skills, confidence and connections he developed during his time at Herzing.