Kimberly
Once I finish college, how can i get the experience I need for a certain job?
I am currently working toward my criminal Justice degree and have little experience in the field of law enforcement. I want to know where I should start in order to slowly get some experience so I can eventually be able to become a cop? I know I have to workout and while I am working toward my degree, I am doing all I can for this particular career. #lawenforcement
3 answers
Misty Miller
Misty’s Answer
You may actually be able to see what the Officer life is like in that some places offer ride alongs to those who are looking to enter law enforcement. Also I will say that alot of times, you can go ahead and take the civil service test and go ahead and get your foot in the door as maybe a deputy or jailor depending on how your municipality qualifies you. That would at least give you a glimpse at what you would be getting into. I would strongly suggest however checking with your local agencies to see what opportunities are available and also find out if just taking the civil service test and going through police academy would be enough to get you in as an officer.
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Many police departments prefer to train you themselves - their way. They don't want to have to un-train you of bad habits or other agencies' ways of doing things. So, given that fact, plus the fact that you are a female, and agencies are always needing more female candidates, you should not have any problems if you meet all other criteria.
These criteria include weight, physical fitness, moral character, criminal background check, tattoos/piercings (??).
If you want to work on getting "experience," I'd recommend you work on things that will make you a good officer: Ability to make quick decisions under pressure, report writing, talking to people, gathering facts, thinking and writing in a chronological order, reading comprehension, staying calm under pressure. You can really pick up these skills in many jobs, or school activities. These include retail sales, team sports, debate, school newspaper, etc. They are "transferable skills, " and you will need to be able to explain how they relate to law enforcement.
Best of luck!
Kim
Ron S
Ron’s Answer
Internships.
Most police departments that I know offer internship-type positions for aspiring police officers. Not only do these opportunities give you insight, experience, and help you decide if this is the right career for you, it also allows you to get one foot in the door for that department. They will always look at those who volunteer for them more favorably than others.
Good luck hunting!