As an undergraduate, Donald Nevins majored in justice and law administration and knew he wanted to pursue a career as a police officer.

Now, after 15 years on the police department in Southbury, Conn., Nevins finds himself in the last place he thought he would be--back in school. With retirement just a few years away, he decided to take his interest in criminal law and turn it into a second career. Nevins plans to become a state prosecutor after he completes his law degree.

It's a challenge to keep up with his demanding schedule of working full-time, taking classes and studying. "Every day is very full, very busy," he says. "It wouldn't be possible without 100 percent support at home. My wife makes this possible for me." The couple has a 13-year-old son.

Despite his busy schedule, Nevins will have the chance to complete an externship this summer, clerking for a local criminal judge. He will switch his police shift to evenings in order to accommodate the externship schedule during the day. His job gives him the flexibility to take on an externship. "I feel lucky in that regard."

Now in his second year of the four-year, part-time program, Nevins says he has also found support among the faculty and student community. "Quinnipiac is geared toward the individual. There's a strong sense of community among the students, especially the part-time evening students, since we're all going through the same thing," he says.

Nevins says he has found faculty members to be approachable and supportive. "Everyone has taken time out from their schedules to help me with my goals and aspirations. You cannot put a price tag on that."

And he's impressed that they have chosen to teach. "These are all seriously accomplished people in their own right," he says. "They love what they're doing--and they can be anywhere. That's huge."