In his seven months as a security officer for the University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD), Matthew D’Ambrosi has enjoyed getting to know the people who study and work at UMB. 

“I’m either posted on a corner or on foot patrol for most of my shift, so I’m always out-and-about, getting to hear other people’s stories,” he says. “It’s awesome. I’ve learned a ton.” 

As a security officer, D’Ambrosi often encounters people who are experiencing homelessness or struggling with behavioral health issues. While he wishes he could help them more, he is always sure to acknowledge them, listen to them, and get to know them. “You’d be surprised how far a simple ‘hi’ can go!”

D’Ambrosi joined UMBPD because he wanted to break into the field of law enforcement. He’s currently attending the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and serves as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army Reserve. 

As a UMB student himself, D’Ambrosi says it’s important for students to expand their network beyond their school.

“Take advantage of the fact that there are seven distinct schools here at UMB, each one filled with smart people who are going be making a future impact in their respective fields across Maryland and elsewhere,” he says. “You should get to know them, and they should get to know you.”

Outside of work, D’Ambrosi prioritizes physical fitness. “You can almost always catch me at the gym or on a run!”