soldier, cop 2 be

[rhedges8]

I'm an active duty soldier in the Army.  I have two years left on my enlistment.  I have started working toward a degree in criminal justice.  I was wondering if there was anything else I could do now to start getting ready to pursuit a career in law enforcement.  I'll be very grateful for any information or advice.  Thanks!

[Charlie]

rhedges8--Most definitely take a look at some of the previously asked questions and answers on this board.  I think you'll find an abundance and variety of information that, in some cases, maybe you never thought of. ;D

* I would highly recommend that you continue with the college and obtain as many credit hours as you can.  Preferably a degree if at all possible.  Ultimately, I would recommend that someone get themselves a minimum of a 4-year degree but this is perhaps not necessary to get the job in most cases.  It's often very competitive out there and educational levels may be a big advantage.

* An "Honorable Discharge" or "Discharge Under Honorable Conditons" is what, to my knowledge, the vast majority of departments will only accept out there.  Need I say more?

* Military service is preferred by a lot of departments and may also get you a few extra points on the tests.  BUT, this does not mean you're automatically going to be hired where ever you decide to apply.

* Maintain good physical fitness. ;D

* While you're still in the military, you ought to think about WHERE you want to get hired.  A lot of departments out there have web sites which usually have recruiting information as well posted.  I highly recommend that you choose only a few agencies you really want to work for.  Do not take the blanket approach and apply to a large number of agencies at the same time!  Besides, exploring where you might want to end up will possibly help you plan for their hiring process a little better because you'll know what to expect. ;D

* Obtain a self-study guide for the law enforcement officer's civil service test.  Some of these guides can be very helpful.  You can usually locate them in the Self Help sections at a book store or library.  These guides usually offer other advice and tips too! 8)

* If you know WHICH department(s) you want to get on board with, find out all you can about the department and/or community it serves.  Maybe a little about the department's history, traditions, etc.

* Finally, there is no "magic bullet" that's going to guarentee you're going to be hired someplace.  All you can do is hopefully prepare yourself as best as you can and go through the process.  And, check some of the information and sources available at this site!  8)

You still have two-years to prepare...... Best of luck! ;D

Charlie

[cpl_mike]

Does Charlie ever give bad advice? "NO"!!!!!! ;D .I advise you to listen well to his info.Before you enter the "world" check out different agency web sites via www.officer.com- Some agencies in California( My State),like The CA Highway Patrol ,San Jose,CA PD , and LAPD have accelerated programs for out of state and military applicants to clear the hiring process(getting "out" and waiting months for a job can be depressing) I know that some agencies in Florida do the same(there I go ,promoting those "sunshine " states again)..Good luck , and thanks for serving this Country....