Cori Beltran

What year did you start working at NIU?
2015

Where is your hometown? and where do you live now?
I am from Chicago and currently live in Kirkland, Illinois. 

Where did you attend school? What degree(s) did you earn?
I am a proud NIU alum. I earned my bachelor's degree in sociology with a certificate in criminology.

If you attended college, were you a first-generation student?
I was a first-generation student.

Describe your typical day—what do you do while at work?
As a detective with the NIU Department of Police and Public Safety (NIUPD), my duties can vary from day to day. Typically, I get to my desk and organize my day depending on my caseload. I'll complete paperwork, conduct victim and/or offender interviews, update victims on their case status and, when necessary, speak with the state's attorney. Some days, I might even assist patrol and the DeKalb Police Department. 

What do you like about working at NIU?
I fell in love with NIU's welcoming environment and diversity as a student. Now as an NIUPD detective, I can appreciate it even more. I enjoy being able to protect and keep NIU safe because NIU is a place where everyone is included and can feel at home. 

What advice would you give to students currently attending NIU?
Balance is key. You can have fun and still stay focused on the goal, which is to earn that degree! Make sure you always have a buddy/counselor who can keep you on track. 

What is your favorite campus event?
I enjoy move-in as well as one of our newer events called Welcome Holmes, which is held at the Holmes Student Center. They have a variety of activities for incoming students where everyone can find something to do that they enjoy, while meeting and making new friends. 

In what ways do you see your colleagues help foster student success?
The NIUPD works as a team in order to successfully get the job done, from investigating cases to helping students jump-start their vehicles. We always put our students first and make it a priority to create positive relationships with them. This way, students can feel comfortable and trust that we are here for them. 

What is your favorite memory of NIU?
I became a single mother while completing my junior year at NIU. I remember getting a lot of support from my CHANCE counselor and professors. Thanks to them and my dedication, I was able to graduate on time. 

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you currently doing it? If not, what changed your path?
I had wanted to become a police officer since high school. I grew up in Little Village on the south side of Chicago and unfortunately endured a lot of loss due to gang violence in the area. The violence and shootings became normalized around my peers, but I knew I wanted to do something to help influence the youth. After graduating from NIU, I got hired by the NIUPD and never looked back!

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to lift weights, walk trails, draw, paint and spend time with friends and family to recharge.