4 answers
Irenne
Student
Yuma, Arizona
1
Question
Asked
285 views
What is it like working in Law-Enforcement and what are some tips that I can use starting now in middle school to make it to my goal of joining?
Hi, My name is Irenne.
I have been interested in Law-Enforcement since I was 5, I watch many crime documentaries and as well as shows that have anything that has to do with crime (like Batman and S.W.A.T). I am very interested in helping the world be better and away from danger, Just like how my dad and uncle's risk their life everyday. I look up to people who are kind and caring of the well being of others. Everyday is a challenge but I would love to go home with a sense of victory and peace.
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4 answers
DENNIS A BREEN
Lawyer
270
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
DENNIS A’s Answer
Hi Irene: I am a lawyer and teacher so no law enforcement or SWAT experience. However, I'd advise you to do good in school, stay out of trouble, play sports and help out at home. The best police officers are good, honest hard working guys. Go out and have fun as you move along in life! Good luck!
Alison Plemons, SHRM-SCP
HR Director
1
Answer
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Alison’s Answer
Hi Irene,
Stanley's advice is right on target! I was in a similar situation, interested in a law enforcement career after high school. Since you usually need to be 21 to become an officer, you have time to learn and grow.
Consider joining an Explorer program. I joined the California Highway Patrol Explorer Program, which helped me understand the role, develop skills, and build connections. Through this, I met a dispatch supervisor who recommended me for a job, and I got it! I worked as a dispatcher while finishing college and realized being an officer wasn't for me. However, I advanced to roles like academy trainer and dispatch supervisor, eventually becoming a Labor Relations Specialist. If you're interested in law enforcement, an Explorer program is a great start. Check what's available, as there may be age limits.
It's also important to act in ways that reflect the values of law enforcement. There are thorough background checks and exams to ensure candidates are suitable. Start by being reliable, trustworthy, and working hard in school. Physical fitness is crucial, so focus on building strength and endurance.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best!
Alison
Stanley's advice is right on target! I was in a similar situation, interested in a law enforcement career after high school. Since you usually need to be 21 to become an officer, you have time to learn and grow.
Consider joining an Explorer program. I joined the California Highway Patrol Explorer Program, which helped me understand the role, develop skills, and build connections. Through this, I met a dispatch supervisor who recommended me for a job, and I got it! I worked as a dispatcher while finishing college and realized being an officer wasn't for me. However, I advanced to roles like academy trainer and dispatch supervisor, eventually becoming a Labor Relations Specialist. If you're interested in law enforcement, an Explorer program is a great start. Check what's available, as there may be age limits.
It's also important to act in ways that reflect the values of law enforcement. There are thorough background checks and exams to ensure candidates are suitable. Start by being reliable, trustworthy, and working hard in school. Physical fitness is crucial, so focus on building strength and endurance.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best!
Alison
Stanley Crowder
Digital Forensics Investigator
2
Answers
Wilmington, North Carolina
Updated
Stanley’s Answer
Hi Irene,
I am a retired Secret Service Agent with 36 years in law enforcement, including 22 years in the Secret Service and 14 years as a Deputy Sheriff. Law enforcement is a rewarding career, and I wouldn't change a thing about my journey. To prepare, focus on doing well in school and consider getting a college degree after high school. Check if your local Police or Sheriff's Office offers a ride-along or law enforcement explorer program for young people aged 14-21. These programs are great for learning about the field.
Remember, law enforcement is all about dealing with people. You'll often meet them during tough times, so staying calm under pressure is crucial. People will look to you for guidance in crises. Loving to work with people is important because this job is all about interaction. Some officers don't enjoy dealing with people, which can lead to problems.
Also, choose your friends wisely. Avoid those who drink or use drugs, as this field has no room for that behavior. I hope this advice helps, and I wish you the best of luck!
I am a retired Secret Service Agent with 36 years in law enforcement, including 22 years in the Secret Service and 14 years as a Deputy Sheriff. Law enforcement is a rewarding career, and I wouldn't change a thing about my journey. To prepare, focus on doing well in school and consider getting a college degree after high school. Check if your local Police or Sheriff's Office offers a ride-along or law enforcement explorer program for young people aged 14-21. These programs are great for learning about the field.
Remember, law enforcement is all about dealing with people. You'll often meet them during tough times, so staying calm under pressure is crucial. People will look to you for guidance in crises. Loving to work with people is important because this job is all about interaction. Some officers don't enjoy dealing with people, which can lead to problems.
Also, choose your friends wisely. Avoid those who drink or use drugs, as this field has no room for that behavior. I hope this advice helps, and I wish you the best of luck!
Norbert J. Grundy II, FCLS {JW}
Investigator
1
Answer
Belleville, Michigan
Updated
Norbert J.’s Answer
Working in law enforcement is rewarding and challenging. Officers protect people, enforce laws, and help communities stay safe. Each day is different. One day you might help in an emergency, and the next you might investigate a crime or solve problems with other officers.
Helping people in tough times is a big part of the job. Officers often meet people who are scared or hurt, so being patient, using good judgment, and showing compassion are key. The work can be demanding, with long hours and the need for teamwork and calmness under stress. Many officers say the best part is knowing they made a difference in their community.
Tips for Middle School Students:
1. Focus on Education
Pay attention in school, especially in law, history, writing, psychology, and physical education. Strong reading and writing skills are important for writing reports and analyzing information.
2. Stay Physically Active
Law enforcement jobs require fitness. Engage in sports, running, or swimming to build strength and endurance.
3. Build Strong Character
Practice honesty, responsibility, and respect. Always do the right thing, even when it's hard.
4. Develop Communication Skills
Learn to listen well, speak clearly, and solve problems peacefully. These skills are crucial for talking to different people daily.
5. Get Involved in Your Community
Volunteer, help neighbors, join clubs, or participate in community activities to show leadership and a desire to help others.
6. Stay Out of Trouble
Make good choices to build a strong reputation. Law enforcement agencies look closely at a person’s background.
7. Learn About the Career
Watch educational documentaries, read about investigations, and learn how the justice system works.
Your passion for helping people and making the world safer is a great start. If you work hard in school, stay active, and keep your goal in mind, you're building a strong path toward a career in law enforcement.
Helping people in tough times is a big part of the job. Officers often meet people who are scared or hurt, so being patient, using good judgment, and showing compassion are key. The work can be demanding, with long hours and the need for teamwork and calmness under stress. Many officers say the best part is knowing they made a difference in their community.
Tips for Middle School Students:
1. Focus on Education
Pay attention in school, especially in law, history, writing, psychology, and physical education. Strong reading and writing skills are important for writing reports and analyzing information.
2. Stay Physically Active
Law enforcement jobs require fitness. Engage in sports, running, or swimming to build strength and endurance.
3. Build Strong Character
Practice honesty, responsibility, and respect. Always do the right thing, even when it's hard.
4. Develop Communication Skills
Learn to listen well, speak clearly, and solve problems peacefully. These skills are crucial for talking to different people daily.
5. Get Involved in Your Community
Volunteer, help neighbors, join clubs, or participate in community activities to show leadership and a desire to help others.
6. Stay Out of Trouble
Make good choices to build a strong reputation. Law enforcement agencies look closely at a person’s background.
7. Learn About the Career
Watch educational documentaries, read about investigations, and learn how the justice system works.
Your passion for helping people and making the world safer is a great start. If you work hard in school, stay active, and keep your goal in mind, you're building a strong path toward a career in law enforcement.