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Kyle Drick ’18

Kyle Drick ’18
Pennsylvania State Police | Explosive Detection and Human Tracking Canine Handler
Criminal Justice & Psychology major

Background:

After graduating from Lycoming College in 2018 I started working at the United States Penitentiary – Lewisburg as a correctional officer. In fall of 2019 I was accepted into the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and graduated in Spring of 2020. I was assigned to the Troop F – Milton station and worked in patrol from 2020-2024. In spring of 2024 I was selected for the Explosive Detection and Human Tracking Canine Handler position which covered the central part of the state (Troop F & Troop G).

How did you become interested in criminal justice, and what was it like studying criminal justice at Lycoming College?

I was initially interested in criminal justice due to my future desires of wanting to work in law enforcement. Studying criminal justice at Lycoming College opened my eyes to many facets of criminal justice, which I don’t think is initially thought about. I also believe the smaller class sizes allowed for better learning and relationships which were beneficial in the future when networking and searching for internships, jobs, and so on.

What was the most impactful educational experience you had while at Lycoming?

I believe the most beneficial educational experience at Lycoming was the internship program. Students are fortunate for the relationships Lycoming College has with many agencies in the area that offer internships. I was fortunate enough to complete internships with the Old Lycoming Township Police Department, Justice Works Youth Care, and the U.S. Marshals Service. These internships allow for real world experience and create networking opportunities for the future.

How did your Lycoming education and student experience prepare you for life after college?

One skill I credit from my education at Lycoming College that translated to work was writing. I recall that there were several “writing intensive” classes that were mandated. I believe these classes significantly improved my writing ability. This helped with writing and articulating in reports, criminal complaints, affidavits, and so on.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying criminal justice at Lycoming?

The advice I would give to someone considering studying criminal justice at Lycoming College is to take advantage of the opportunities to work hard and set yourself apart. Completing internships, adding a 2nd major/minor, or completing volunteer work will all be things that will set you apart from other candidates later when applying for a job. With anything you do, work hard and take pride in your work because you will be building your reputation. Finally, going through college be cognizant of your actions & decisions, as most careers in the criminal justice field are going to require a polygraph and a background investigation. You will have to answer for all your decisions and some may disqualify you from obtaining the career you want.