When Pfc. Gladimir Dupalis joined the University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD) in May, he brought his positive attitude with him. "You should always try to find positive outcomes from a negative situation, no matter how difficult it is," he says. "Enjoy life. Try new things."

Dupalis became a police officer two years ago, joining the Bowie State Police Department. He knew he wanted to work in public service since he was a child. When his high school coach and a university professor encouraged him to pursue a career in law enforcement, he jumped at the opportunity.

At Bowie, Dupalis remembers working during homecoming week. Police officers from nearby agencies were brought in to support their department and make sure everyone on campus was safe.

"My favorite part of being a police officer is teamwork," Dupalis says. "Having various agencies from the area come support us — that shows teamwork gets the job done."

While police officers face a number of challenges, Dupalis is committed to overcoming them. "If you meet those challenges one step at a time and work together with your fellow offers to find a solution, you can overcome any challenge," he says.

Outside of work, Dupalis likes to go to the gym and spend time with family and friends. He hopes to one day work for a federal law enforcement agency or become chief of a police department.