Expert: Jason Grabill - 4/17/2006

Question
dear jason,

I am a 17 year old high school student that plans on graduating next year. I have been wondering on how I personally can become a police officer. I am in well physical shape and stay away from drugs.  I have been researching ways to become and officer and am kind of lost.
I am not interested in going into the military. College is a possiblity but i wanted to jump right into it.
 How important is it for me to get a degree?

 What degree would i get? I know criminal justice is a possibillity but what else is there? I Know that engilsh and journalism are opptions but I dont know if thats for me.


Since I can't go to the acadamy untill i'm 20 what other police work or experince can i get?

How hard is it to get into the acadamy?  What can i do to help my chances of getting in?


I just need to know a good way to get me started.  Anything would really help and i would appreciate it.

thank you,
kolb

Answer
Hi Kolb:

  Some agencies do recruit at 18;  the Florida Highway patrol used to.  Also, you may consider becoming a cadet;  you aren't a sworn officer, but you are "in" the system.

  These days, your chances of becoming an officer with no prior military experience of any kind is, realistically, not very good.  Lots of military folks are getting out through the normal rotation, and many of them are interested in being police officers.  Many serving officers are prior military.  Many departments, and all federal agencies, give veterans preference to folks who've been in the military.  Bottom line, going in the military will at least give you a level playing field, and "kill time" until you turn 21.  

  A CJ degree, like I've said in prior postings, is something I'd shy away from.  Any degree is a help, but I point folks towards the journalism/English section because that will help the most.

 With no military experience, a degree will be your only realistic shot, in my opinion, at being competitive with your peers who will also be applying.

Best Regards,