Expert: Loren Stevens - 6/1/2010

Question
What might you say one has to focus on in grade school or high school if they are looking forward to pursuing a career in the special victims unit.

Answer
Hello Jemila,
Please don't struggle with "SVU". Much of that is TV entertainment oriented.
Many agencies don't have such a unit, or if they do, they call it something else.
The reality is, that whether or not a case is "special" or not, is unimportant. All crimes have to be specific, in statute. Typically, all offenses are listed in a rough division of importance...GENERALLY, as the groupings in the UCR (Uniform Crime Reporting) which is a national reporting process.

For young folks interested in a police career, I would say they need to stay out of trouble, no drugs or alcohol abuse, good driving record, no avoidable debt, no domestic violence issues, or any other obvious "deal breakers".
You might want to review past Q and A on my pages.
Keep your grades up, do some varied volunteer work, develop hobbies in relevant areas: Fitness, bi-lingual, martial arts, fire arms proficiency etc.
Work at developing your written and oral communication skills.
Be analytical. Good practice, is to view old movies, and try to notice any errors.
Like an old Dark Ages film, where a horseman is wearing a wrist watch or something.
Some areas of the country where there is Scouting, they have a
police post" where the Scouts connect with aspects of police service.
But, as you prepare, focus should be on the entry level for the agency you like. This, is usually a uniform patrol position. You'll need to distinguish yourself there, as a first responder, and preliminary investigator, prior to having a realistic chance to move into Investigations. Once you are an "insider", you'll be more aware of what that particular agency seeks for talent recognition.
For academics, early in your study, try to study the First 10 Amendments of the Constitution ( Bill of Rights).
Hope this is helpful, and enough for now, to give you some ideas. Good Luck.
loren