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Lily
Student
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what can i do if i want to be a police?
what can i do if i want to be a police?
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2 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Lily,
The most important thing a young person can do if they want to become a police officer is to take pride in maintaining a good reputation. Treat everyone with respect, and don't hang out with the wrong people. Stay away from drugs and alcohol, and do not engage in criminal behavior, including petty theft, criminal mischief, and some of the other things we don't think about as really being "crimes." Keep good grades, have good attendance, and graduate. The background check is VERY thorough.
I recommend getting involved in some sort of team sports, as teamwork is an essential component of law enforcement, as is physical fitness.
Look into your local police department to see if they offer a Police Explorers program or other youth activities.
As for classes, take classes that work on your critical thinking skills and writing skills. Geometry is a good "thinking" subject, if you like math.
Another thing to consider is enlisting in the military after graduating HS. The training and experience you will gain there will work in your favor when applying to law enforcement jobs.
Good luck!
Kim
The most important thing a young person can do if they want to become a police officer is to take pride in maintaining a good reputation. Treat everyone with respect, and don't hang out with the wrong people. Stay away from drugs and alcohol, and do not engage in criminal behavior, including petty theft, criminal mischief, and some of the other things we don't think about as really being "crimes." Keep good grades, have good attendance, and graduate. The background check is VERY thorough.
I recommend getting involved in some sort of team sports, as teamwork is an essential component of law enforcement, as is physical fitness.
Look into your local police department to see if they offer a Police Explorers program or other youth activities.
As for classes, take classes that work on your critical thinking skills and writing skills. Geometry is a good "thinking" subject, if you like math.
Another thing to consider is enlisting in the military after graduating HS. The training and experience you will gain there will work in your favor when applying to law enforcement jobs.
Good luck!
Kim
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
188
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hi Lily!
Becoming a police officer requires a combination of education, training, physical fitness, and a commitment to serving the community. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pursue a career in law enforcement:
1. Understand the Requirements
Age: Most police departments require candidates to be at least 18 years old.
Citizenship: Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen or have legally entered the country.
Background Check: Be prepared to undergo a thorough background check, including criminal history and credit checks.
2. Education
High School Diploma: Start with a high school diploma or GED. Courses in criminal justice or related fields can be beneficial.
Higher Education: While not always required, many departments prefer or require candidates to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
Internships or Volunteer Work: Consider internships, community service, or volunteer positions related to public service, mentoring, or youth programs to gain relevant experience and insights into community needs.
Become Involved in the Community: Active participation in local community programs can help develop valuable interpersonal skills.
4. Prepare for the Police Academy
Physical Fitness: Start a fitness regimen to prepare for the physical demands of police training, including strength, endurance, and agility.
Mental Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the challenges and responsibilities of police work. Understanding law enforcement policies, ethics, and community relations is vital.
5. Apply to Police Departments
Research Departments: Look into police departments in your desired location. Each department may have slightly different requirements and application processes.
Submit Applications: Follow the application guidelines, providing all requested documentation and information.
6. Pass the Entrance Exams
Written Exam: Many departments require candidates to pass a written test that assesses reading comprehension, problem-solving, and reasoning skills.
Physical Ability Test: You will likely need to complete a physical fitness test to demonstrate your ability to meet the physical demands of the job.
7. Prepare for Interviews and Background Checks
Interview Preparation: Practice responses to common interview questions related to law enforcement scenarios, ethics, and community service.
Background Investigation: Expect a detailed background check. Be honest and thorough throughout this process.
8. Attend the Police Academy
Training Program: Upon acceptance, you will attend a police academy where you will undergo rigorous training. This includes instruction in:
Criminal law
Firearms handling
Defensive tactics
Emergency response
Community policing
First aid and CPR
9. Field Training
After graduating from the police academy, you will likely participate in field training, working under the supervision of experienced officers to gain practical, on-the-job experience.
10. Continuing Education and Career Advancement
Ongoing Training: Stay updated with ongoing training and certifications. Many departments encourage further education and specialization in areas like investigations, community policing, or tactical response.
Career Development: Look for opportunities to advance within the department, such as specialized units or leadership roles.
Becoming a police officer requires dedication and a commitment to serving the community. By following these steps, maintaining a strong ethical foundation, and cultivating a positive mindset, you can successfully pursue a rewarding career in law enforcement. Good luck in your journey!
Becoming a police officer requires a combination of education, training, physical fitness, and a commitment to serving the community. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pursue a career in law enforcement:
1. Understand the Requirements
Age: Most police departments require candidates to be at least 18 years old.
Citizenship: Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen or have legally entered the country.
Background Check: Be prepared to undergo a thorough background check, including criminal history and credit checks.
2. Education
High School Diploma: Start with a high school diploma or GED. Courses in criminal justice or related fields can be beneficial.
Higher Education: While not always required, many departments prefer or require candidates to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
Internships or Volunteer Work: Consider internships, community service, or volunteer positions related to public service, mentoring, or youth programs to gain relevant experience and insights into community needs.
Become Involved in the Community: Active participation in local community programs can help develop valuable interpersonal skills.
4. Prepare for the Police Academy
Physical Fitness: Start a fitness regimen to prepare for the physical demands of police training, including strength, endurance, and agility.
Mental Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the challenges and responsibilities of police work. Understanding law enforcement policies, ethics, and community relations is vital.
5. Apply to Police Departments
Research Departments: Look into police departments in your desired location. Each department may have slightly different requirements and application processes.
Submit Applications: Follow the application guidelines, providing all requested documentation and information.
6. Pass the Entrance Exams
Written Exam: Many departments require candidates to pass a written test that assesses reading comprehension, problem-solving, and reasoning skills.
Physical Ability Test: You will likely need to complete a physical fitness test to demonstrate your ability to meet the physical demands of the job.
7. Prepare for Interviews and Background Checks
Interview Preparation: Practice responses to common interview questions related to law enforcement scenarios, ethics, and community service.
Background Investigation: Expect a detailed background check. Be honest and thorough throughout this process.
8. Attend the Police Academy
Training Program: Upon acceptance, you will attend a police academy where you will undergo rigorous training. This includes instruction in:
Criminal law
Firearms handling
Defensive tactics
Emergency response
Community policing
First aid and CPR
9. Field Training
After graduating from the police academy, you will likely participate in field training, working under the supervision of experienced officers to gain practical, on-the-job experience.
10. Continuing Education and Career Advancement
Ongoing Training: Stay updated with ongoing training and certifications. Many departments encourage further education and specialization in areas like investigations, community policing, or tactical response.
Career Development: Look for opportunities to advance within the department, such as specialized units or leadership roles.
Becoming a police officer requires dedication and a commitment to serving the community. By following these steps, maintaining a strong ethical foundation, and cultivating a positive mindset, you can successfully pursue a rewarding career in law enforcement. Good luck in your journey!