“A lot of my family were always an inspiration to me growing up.”
For a lot of women, getting into law enforcement may not be the first thing that comes to mind. For 24-year-old Burlington Township Police Officer Christina Zalot, law enforcement was something that became a reality during her college years.
Zalot, a Burlington Township resident since she was 2 years old, started considering law enforcement following a college internship while at Monmouth University.
Following her high school graduation in 2010, Zalot attended Monmouth where she earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice while also minoring in psychology.
“Growing up I really didn’t know what I wanted to do,” Zalot said. “I kind of just chose criminal justice when I started at college, and following several classes and an internship, I knew I wanted to get more involved.”
Aug. 3 marked Zalot’s two-year anniversary of starting at Burlington Township, something she has enjoyed from day one.
Despite not having a lot of close friends who also went into law enforcement, Zalot formed strong bonds with members of the Police Academy and her police department.
“Since I was 2 years old, I have been in Burlington Township, and it’s good to work in a community I truly know,” Zalot said. “Other than my uncle, who was part of the State Police, not a lot of my family members considered this field.”
When asked about her inspiration to continue pushing toward her goal, Zalot quickly responded with her parents.
“I still live with my dad, and he is always there to support me,” Zalot said. “My mother has also been there for me, and I go to those two for anything when I need it.”
The beauty of being a police officer are the different outcomes each day. One day may be pretty laid back, while others may need more attention. The differences with each day are another reason Zalot enjoys her job.
“This is completely different from a 9-to-5 job, which I love, “ Zalot said. “When people praise you it makes you feel good, and you know you are making a difference in the entire community.”
Other than her job, Zalot enjoys working out and being active, which also helps her as a police officer. Visiting her mother in Philadelphia, swimming in her pool at home and gardening are also activities she enjoys.
Zalot is one of four female members on the Burlington Township police force, which shows the changing nature of the field. When asked about her feelings on that trend, the 24-year-old was excited to see the change occurring.
“I like it a lot,” Zalot said. “Just like in any career, I think it’s important to have that diversity, and no matter what, we are all striving for the same goal in the end.”
For more information regarding the BTPD or Zalot, check http://www.burltwppd.com.
