Expert: Dick Rogers - 6/6/2009

Question
I am a single mom of two children. I am also an investigator for child protective services. I have investigated child deaths and so forth in specialized units.
I work directly with law enforcement which is mainly detectives.
I know the job is nothing like t.v. I share an office with detectives and we conduct joint investigations.

I never saw myself as the "police officer type". I'm not athletic by any means. However, I am a very good investigator and I know I would be a good detective.
I have a college degree.
I am concerned about the police academy...especially the physical assessment. I am also concerned with being a street officer for several years.

I am in my early thirties and never would have imagined I would even consider becoming a police officer.
However, I love the type of work I am currently doing and it does not offer the growth opportunites that law enforcement offers.

I don't want to discuss this with my co-workers at this time. Are there officers who are not athletic? Could I still make it through? What should I do to prepare for this?  I'm about 15 lbs over weight and not in shape at all.

Answer
Clare, I have answered hundreds of inquiries on this site, but yours is one I am most happy to address.  First off, you seem like a wonderful candidate for becoming a police officer.  Your background is sorely needed in dealing with too many child abuse or neglect cases.  You have many of the things that are essential to becoming an officer...a college degree, significant, relevant experience..already comfortable working in a law enforcement environment and....and...you already are knowledgeable about law enforcement not being as portrayed on the tube.  That said, what can I say to convince you that you must take on the physical aspect to make it through the academy?  I can tell you that if you start working out quite modestly...i.e., running a few miles, doing a small amount of situps...pushups...deep knee bends, etc., and slowly increasing the amount and length, you will be amazed at how quickly you gain stamina and a great attitude...you will be ahead of most other applicants who consider themselves in good shape until they hit the academy.  Also, you will be putting yourself in a good, healthy situation. You should put a carrot on the end of a stick in your mind...i.e., when you become a police officer, you will have all the perks that go with it...health care...good salary and a great retirement...Have I convinced you?