3 answers
Jaev'han
Student
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
4
Questions
Asked
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I want to go into Law Enforcement as another profession if thats either State, Local, or Millitary. What are some tips and helpful suggestions that I could bring into the field and something I can know before going into the field?
More Information about the field.
Education about the field.
What should I start with first or where will I get the most experience.
Salary Range for this career in the State of Maryland or Washington D.C.
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3 answers
Michael Nashan
Associate Director
1
Answer
Pasadena, Maryland
Updated
Michael’s Answer
In the 1980s, I worked as a Military Police Officer. Some days had long hours, but overall, it was a rewarding job. The military trains you for this role, no matter which branch you're in, and you need high test scores to qualify. The best part is that you leave the military with a valuable skill you can use in civilian life.
Research whether you want to be in the military or not.
Decide whether you want to go to college and then become a police officer in the civilian world.
Know that being a police officer is a dangerous job, ensure you want to do that.
Understand if you want to become a public servant, which a police officer is.
Michael recommends the following next steps:
As a mililtary police officer what branch was that? Im considering a Air Force Police Career but how does that training look like is is it like Basic Training or is it different. Military is something that I am considering to go in after High School as well.
Jaev'han
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1828
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Jaev'han
Law Enforcement is a rewarding career!
Things to know: background checks are thorough. Try to stay on good terms with neighbors, employers, ex-significant others, teachers, etc. Pay your bills on time, don't take on too much debt. Get good grades. Stay out of trouble. While things are changing, I wouldn't get any tattoos until after you are hired and know your agency's policies.
Pointers: teamwork always looks good on an application. And, if it's sports, helps you get and stay conditioned.
What to know: You have to separate your personal beliefs from the job. I've arrested people on their way to both weddings and funerals. Elderly people, kids, and high ranking officials. It's important to learn the law and learn it well - so when someone challenges your authority, you know you are on solid ground.
If you go in the military, they will provide all your training. You will first need to pass the ASVAB test and get high scores on the sections applicable to law enforcement. A recruiter should be able to tell you what sections those are. You can find on-line studying resources to help you.
If you are going into civilian law enforcement, most agencies require at least a 2 year degree, and some require that you be 21. Each state sets the general overall rules for that state, and agencies have additional qualifications.
Self-confidence is very important. All law enforcement/military training plays head-games with you to try and get you rattled. There will be scenarios, fitness training, driving, shooting, etc. If you believe you can, you will. Simple as that.
Best of luck to you!!!
Law Enforcement is a rewarding career!
Things to know: background checks are thorough. Try to stay on good terms with neighbors, employers, ex-significant others, teachers, etc. Pay your bills on time, don't take on too much debt. Get good grades. Stay out of trouble. While things are changing, I wouldn't get any tattoos until after you are hired and know your agency's policies.
Pointers: teamwork always looks good on an application. And, if it's sports, helps you get and stay conditioned.
What to know: You have to separate your personal beliefs from the job. I've arrested people on their way to both weddings and funerals. Elderly people, kids, and high ranking officials. It's important to learn the law and learn it well - so when someone challenges your authority, you know you are on solid ground.
If you go in the military, they will provide all your training. You will first need to pass the ASVAB test and get high scores on the sections applicable to law enforcement. A recruiter should be able to tell you what sections those are. You can find on-line studying resources to help you.
If you are going into civilian law enforcement, most agencies require at least a 2 year degree, and some require that you be 21. Each state sets the general overall rules for that state, and agencies have additional qualifications.
Self-confidence is very important. All law enforcement/military training plays head-games with you to try and get you rattled. There will be scenarios, fitness training, driving, shooting, etc. If you believe you can, you will. Simple as that.
Best of luck to you!!!
Jerry Tingstad
Professor/middle school teacher/48 years
161
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Michael's and Kim's answers are worth re-reading. Especially as it relates to getting at least a two year degree in that would relate to law enforcement.
And yes, the military will train you.
My concern would center not so much on becoming a state law officer as it is for a local police officer. Large cities tend and counties tend to require a good deal of education and training.
But in less populated local areas becinubg a local law officer tends to be easier, by and large, and, to be frank, you get what you pay for.
Therefore, if you are serious about becoming a law officer, I would center my mind on agencies that require an education and have a thourgh training program.
And yes, the military will train you.
My concern would center not so much on becoming a state law officer as it is for a local police officer. Large cities tend and counties tend to require a good deal of education and training.
But in less populated local areas becinubg a local law officer tends to be easier, by and large, and, to be frank, you get what you pay for.
Therefore, if you are serious about becoming a law officer, I would center my mind on agencies that require an education and have a thourgh training program.