Expert: Dick Rogers - 6/19/2008

Question
Hello Mr. Rogers, I am a 20 year old male enlisted in the U.S. Army and I am currently deployed in Iraq and I have a security clearence and a clean background. I have 1 year to finish my Army contract and I plan to become a police officer when I get out.  Do you think that I will have a good chance at getting hired on as a police officer since I have a military background and a combat arms MOS (job) or do you think that the Police dept. will frown on the fact that I am only 21? Thank you for your time, Michael.

Answer
Michael, your fears are not warranted...you would be a prime candidate for any law enforcement agency.  First off, you said you have a clean background...that is somewhat of a rarity in today's world.  Also, you have served honorably in a branch of the armed forces...that is a plus in recruiters minds (many find the rigors of military life difficult if not impossible to navigate).  Actually, your age is a benefit as well...you are young and haven't been exposed to previous police work that would compromise your training for the agency you hire on with.  I think you would be a fine prospect and I wish you good luck with your search.