Expert: Loren Stevens - 9/6/2011

Question
hi my name is steven and im 16 year old. Im Interesting to join the swat as a sniper or army sniper in Canada. i would like to know how to become physically and mentally prepared for joining a swat or army and school level i need and class. im in good shape. i took lots of gym and fitness class in high school. i run everyday and in a football team. If you have any advice or tips, that well be great.

PS: thank you for taking the time for read this .

Answer
Hello Steven,
Lets look at some practical considerations...
In police work, you need to prepare for the entry level position. Then you have to be selected, get through all of the mandatory training, field-training etc. You will need to excel at the entry level position, to convince upper ranks, that you have what it takes for any 'specialized assignment'' considerations, and an assignment, to any subdivision of the agency. You need to be well grounded, and perform well at the entry level.
And, I would say you'll also need to be off of new hire probation, prior to being eligible, for a special assignment, consideration...(a reasonable generalization by me).
Then, the few spots that may be available for a special ops unit gets down to which candidate can pony up the most/best KSA's...(knowledge, Skills, Abilities)..that are germane to the task at issue, along with the character demands of the special duty.
Potential is good, but I would guess the competition gets quite keen.
The military is a bit different...You may enjoy a slim influence on what areas interest you. But don't let those notions confuse you, as you'll be assigned where they want/need you....this builds character. You may not be a sniper, but you'll come to know principles of organization, mission demands, goal orientation, discipline, maturity, team work, leadership et al, etc.
Generally, in the military, the top shooters at the required rifle range for certification  tend to get ''invited'' for interests in shooting teams, sniper school etc.
There is also the emotional evaluations for a sniper, as those are not paper targets you are preparing to shoot.
Lots to consider.

I submit to you, that a former military person on a police agency may have more to ante up at an interview, than one who has no military experience...again, MY generalization.
Why don't you consult with the police recruiters there, and get as much info as you can. Also meet with a military recruiter, and collect their information.
Include your parents and guardians into your future considerations, or maybe a teacher, career counselor...many areas to gather relevant information...
In the end, you'll be better prepared to make an INFORMED decision.
Keep your grades up, out of trouble, no drugs, or alcohol abuse, clean driving record, no stupid debt... Think about some volunteer work at the police agency you like...then you get a peek as a veritable ''insider''.
These are just some random thoughts, but you get the idea.
Hope this is helpful.
Good Luck,
Semper Fi,
loren