Enchzin Zugder
Years of service: 1.5
Police Constable Enchzin Zugder wanted to be a police officer since he was a child and joined Police Scotland after studying Criminology and Sociology and working in banking.
Why did you want to join the police?
I have wanted to be a police officer since I was a kid. I was born and raised in the Czech Republic and lived in Canada when I was younger. I moved to Scotland for university and decided to make my home here. The communities in Scotland have given so much to me so I thought it was my turn to give back.
What was your background before joining the police?
I studied Criminology and Sociology at the University of Stirling.
I then decided to get some work experience. I worked in a bank for over a year and then applied to become a police officer.
Writing essays at university helped me with my grammar and vocabulary, which has been useful for paperwork. Using different computer systems, working under pressure and talking to customers in my job at the bank helped increase my confidence and improve my communication skills.
You are a Police Constable in a response unit, what’s that like?
I respond to 101 and 999 calls, which means being the first person at various crimes or incidents. This can be from a report of domestic abuse to a missing person or an ongoing burglary. It can be challenging at times but the feeling that I get when I leave my shift is worth all the hard work.
The support I receive is also tremendous I have a superb sergeant and inspector and I work with a great team.
In your opinion, what makes a good police officer?
I think the ideal police officer knows how to listen. Not just hear words but truly listen to what the other person is trying to say, read between the lines and make a decision without any prejudice or judgement. Police officers also need to have a genuine need or want to help others.
What is your favourite part of your role?
The variety. When I come to a shift, I have no idea what is going to happen and that is my favourite part of the job. Every day is unique and brings new challenges.
What is the most rewarding aspect of policing?
The most rewarding part of being a police officer is I feel like I have made a difference. It might not change the whole world, but it changes the world of that person I assisted or helped.
What skills have you developed?
As a police officer I have developed multiple skills. Communication is probably one of the most important parts of my job and I feel like I have better small talk. Communication comes naturally at work and outside work when I go to shops or the barber. My confidence in myself and my abilities has increased.
Have you had any thoughts about your future career in policing and are there any other areas that interest you?
Since I was a boy I wanted to be a detective so that is the career path I would like to take.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of joining the police?
I will pass on the wisdom I was given by a sergeant, which is work hard, be humble and be respectful, and no matter what do you will go far in your life.
