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PROVIDENCE, R.I. – From serving overseas in the military to serving the community at home in Providence, Michael Cifuentes has dedicated his life to public service and also to lifelong learning. He’s received specialized training and certifications within security and community policing, and now bet365 apps Extension School (RWU EXT) is giving him the ultimate boost to continue to grow in his field.

As a father of two children under the age of two and a full-time patrol officer, he’s a family man who takes pride in serving his community and setting an example. 

After several attempts to complete his degree from community college, Cifuentes took the leap at the recommendation of his colleagues and enrolled in the Bachelor of Criminal Justice program at RWU EXT, while serving in his eighth year in the Providence Police Department. 

Not only did the Providence Police Department cover the cost of tuition, but Cifuentes knew this degree would afford him more career paths, from the opportunity to advance in the ranks of law enforcement to opening doors to work in the counseling, corrections, or probation fields. 

“It’s good to have choices in life,” he said, advice that was imparted to him by a colleague. Cifuentes thought ahead to years down the road to retirement, wanting to have options after serving on the police force.

RWU EXT’s Criminal Justice program offered a hybrid model, and the online learning proved most effective for Cifuentes, allowing him to complete coursework between shifts without stepping away from his full-time job or sacrificing time with his family. Born to Guatemalan immigrants, Cifuentes grew up “looking for the American dream” and was second in his family to graduate from college.

“I had heard great things about the flexibility of the program with our schedules,” Cifuentes said. “It gave me the opportunity to do it on my own time, and the professors really worked with me to complete my coursework.”

Cifuentes said some professors even allowed him to turn in work early and get ahead on assignments, something that he appreciated so he could focus on his career. 

He is no stranger to hard work and discipline. After graduating high school, he split his time between pursuing an education and proudly serving his country. In 2020, he was deployed to Afghanistan through the Army National Guard where he served as a scheduler, coordinating mission logistics and worked on a unit overseeing customs operations. In his six-year duty, he achieved the rank of sergeant, supported riot and civil unrest response during political demonstrations, enforced military laws and conducted security operations in the United States and combat zones. Once home, he continued his education within his field by completing certifications in security operations, combat survival, antiterrorism, and leadership.

Besides juggling work, life and college, Cifuentes also founded his self-named upholstery company in 2018, specializing in auto, home furniture and marine upholstery.

At RWU’s Commencement ceremony in May, he’ll cross the stage and receive his hard-earned bachelor’s degree. Cifuentes is also the Extension School’s recipient of the RWU President’s Core Values Medallion, recognizing graduating students who best exemplify the core values of the institution. Next, he plans to work toward his master’s degree in cyber security.

“When I retire or another opportunity comes my way, I’ll be ready,” he said.

It’s a mindset and passion for continuous growth and lifelong learning he’s always held.