I am a senior majoring in economics and transferred to Guilford College from Duluth, Minn. For the past eight years, I have been employed as an N.C. private protective officer in Greensboro. I have had the opportunity to train with some of the finest men and women, including those who have had extensive backgrounds in military, corrections and police work.

As a student here at Guilford, I have had the pleasure of interacting with most of the Guilford College Public Safety officers. In noting the various public safety departments that I have been familiar with throughout my protection career, Guilford has one of the best public safety teams I have ever seen.

Some of them have had police, military or other service-related experiences which is a valuable asset in protecting people and property. Their interpersonal and professional etiquette, while admirable, is superfluous compared to their true work. They present themselves as assertive and effective. I applaud their image, work ethic and campus coverage. They have a knack for popping up when you don’t really expect their presence.

Walking to class or leaving a building, a public safety officer is almost always near. It keeps us alert and encourages policy attention.

I think we take for granted the possible ramifications of our unpredictable environment. Sometimes we may walk to classes, dorms and vehicles, while preoccupied with thoughts of school or other things without being aware of our surroundings.

While it’s a healthy habit to look out for ourselves and others,  it’s also important to acknowledge those who look out for us on a daily basis. The Guilford College Public Safety officers deserve a “thank you,” at the very least.

College can be challenging,  along with having to work and fulfill other obligations. However, it’s nice to know that we are all in this together, striving for the same goal. Suffice it to say, personal safety is vital while in pursuit of vocational aspirations.

So, thank you to the Guilford College Public Safety officers.