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What are the biggest challenges in being in law enforcement What tips do you have for the physical fitness test and interview portion? What is your favorite part of the process and career? #Spring2025?
As a first year criminal justice student, what are some recommendations you have and advice you would give to people following the law enforcement field? What are things you wish you knew when preparing and in the process to become an agent?
#Spring2025
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D.J.’s Answer
Good evening, Janezka.
One of the biggest challenges in law enforcement is maintaining your professionalism when you're ordered to carry out tasks that may seem politically motivated. As long as the order aligns with agency policy, complies with the U.S. Constitution, follows government guidelines, and is executed safely, you are expected to do it — even if it doesn’t sit well with you personally. That’s part of the reality of operating within today’s political environment.
Another major challenge is the unpredictable demands on your time. Depending on the agency and assignment, you may have to travel on short notice, work extensive overtime, or cover several states if you’re assigned to a larger field office. Managing relationships with various Assistant U.S. Attorneys can also be difficult, as each has different preferences and expectations when it comes to case presentations.
For the Physical Fitness Test (PFT), preparation is critical. You should:
Train specifically for the test exercises (running, push-ups, sit-ups, chin-ups).
Focus on endurance, not just strength.
Hit the gym at least three times per week and incorporate regular cardio training.
Simulate test conditions when possible (timed runs, weighted vests if needed).
Some federal agencies have mandatory fitness tests, others do not — and standards can vary widely. Some departments set minimal fitness thresholds, while others demand a much higher level of conditioning.
For the interview portion, success comes down to:
Structuring your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Showing maturity, good judgment, emotional intelligence, and an understanding of the agency’s mission.
Preparing by studying the agency beforehand and tailoring your responses accordingly.
My favorite part of the career has always been the sense of purpose — knowing that you are part of something bigger, protecting the public quietly and professionally without seeking recognition.
As a first-year criminal justice student, I recommend you:
Start building physical fitness as a lifestyle, not just a phase.
Sharpen your writing skills — strong report writing is crucial.
Gain real-world experience early through internships, ride-alongs, or volunteer programs.
Study key case law like Terry v. Ohio, Miranda v. Arizona, Mapp v. Ohio, and Graham v. Connor.
Start networking professionally, even as a student, to open doors later.
Finally, things I wish I knew earlier:
Your reputation starts the moment you apply — everything counts.
Emotional balance is just as important as physical toughness.
Law enforcement is 90% mental: thinking, documenting, and making good decisions under pressure.
Documentation is everything — if it’s not written down, it didn’t happen.
Final word: Be relentless in your preparation, humble in your service, and immovable in your ethics. Law enforcement doesn't need more heroes — it needs more professionals.
One of the biggest challenges in law enforcement is maintaining your professionalism when you're ordered to carry out tasks that may seem politically motivated. As long as the order aligns with agency policy, complies with the U.S. Constitution, follows government guidelines, and is executed safely, you are expected to do it — even if it doesn’t sit well with you personally. That’s part of the reality of operating within today’s political environment.
Another major challenge is the unpredictable demands on your time. Depending on the agency and assignment, you may have to travel on short notice, work extensive overtime, or cover several states if you’re assigned to a larger field office. Managing relationships with various Assistant U.S. Attorneys can also be difficult, as each has different preferences and expectations when it comes to case presentations.
For the Physical Fitness Test (PFT), preparation is critical. You should:
Train specifically for the test exercises (running, push-ups, sit-ups, chin-ups).
Focus on endurance, not just strength.
Hit the gym at least three times per week and incorporate regular cardio training.
Simulate test conditions when possible (timed runs, weighted vests if needed).
Some federal agencies have mandatory fitness tests, others do not — and standards can vary widely. Some departments set minimal fitness thresholds, while others demand a much higher level of conditioning.
For the interview portion, success comes down to:
Structuring your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Showing maturity, good judgment, emotional intelligence, and an understanding of the agency’s mission.
Preparing by studying the agency beforehand and tailoring your responses accordingly.
My favorite part of the career has always been the sense of purpose — knowing that you are part of something bigger, protecting the public quietly and professionally without seeking recognition.
As a first-year criminal justice student, I recommend you:
Start building physical fitness as a lifestyle, not just a phase.
Sharpen your writing skills — strong report writing is crucial.
Gain real-world experience early through internships, ride-alongs, or volunteer programs.
Study key case law like Terry v. Ohio, Miranda v. Arizona, Mapp v. Ohio, and Graham v. Connor.
Start networking professionally, even as a student, to open doors later.
Finally, things I wish I knew earlier:
Your reputation starts the moment you apply — everything counts.
Emotional balance is just as important as physical toughness.
Law enforcement is 90% mental: thinking, documenting, and making good decisions under pressure.
Documentation is everything — if it’s not written down, it didn’t happen.
Final word: Be relentless in your preparation, humble in your service, and immovable in your ethics. Law enforcement doesn't need more heroes — it needs more professionals.