Students On Patrol
Students on Patrol (STOP) was created in August 1990 by the Illinois State University Police Department, the Office of Student Life (now Student Affairs), and the Department of Criminal Justice Sciences. After a hiatus from 2001 - 2009, STOP returned. Thanks to this valuable program, we once again can provide volunteer opportunities and criminal justice experience to students, and, most importantly, make campus safer for our community.
Alumni Story
“The STOP program was my first introduction into the world of Law Enforcement. By observing and assisting the Illinois State University Police, I became aware of the roles and duties within police agencies. The STOP program made me more adept at my skills of observation, and even provided me an opportunity to supervise other STOP members. During interviews, the information I learned through the STOP program gave me a distinct advantage over the other qualified law enforcement applicants.”
– Craig F., Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent and STOP Alumni
Get Involved in STOP
What are the requirements?
- Must be an ISU student.
- 18 years of age or older.
- Subject to a criminal background check. Anyone convicted of a felony or some misdemeanor offenses are ineligible for STOP. Those with multiple questionable police contacts may also be excluded.
- Must note any convictions in the application. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.
- Complete a mandatory training session and pass a written exam.
- Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws.
- Volunteer at least 20 hours per semester to receive certificate of completion.
What's in it for me?
- Gain the satisfaction of knowing that you are taking an active role in the safety of yourself and others on ISU’s campus.
- STOP provides real world experience for your resume and may give you an edge with potential employers. Many past members now work for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
- Recognition for your service through the President’s Volunteer Service Award and the STOP Achievement Awards.
What would I be doing as a STOP member?
- Patrol the central campus of ISU, reporting suspicious activity to ISUPD
- Report burnt out lights or other safety concerns
- Provide late night escorts for students, faculty, and staff (9 pm to 1 am Thursday through Saturday)
- Assist in crime prevention programs on campus
- Check doors on academic buildings during restricted access hours
- Assist in emergencies and disasters
- Participate in emergency drills
- Court room testimony as a witness in criminal cases
Frequently Asked Questions
- How will I patrol the campus?
- Will STOP be calling in parties?
- Will STOP be working during semester breaks or holidays?
- Do I have to be a Criminal Justice major?
- Are STOP members employees of the police department?
- Is this a paid position?
- What hours will STOP work?
- How will STOP report crimes?
- Will STOP count as volunteer hours for my class?
- Will STOP have bicycles or vehicles to use?
- Who are the STOP Advisors?
- How can I apply?