Expert: Jason Grabill - 8/13/2007

Question
Hi Jason,

My husband is actually the one interested in becoming a police officer.  However, this is a lifestyle choice and I would have to be there for him since this will be the biggest change in employment that he's experienced.

This might turn out quite long, but please bear with me.  I've searched all over the internet for a place I could ask direct questions to a person who actually knows.

1.  He is 25 years old and in good health.  The only thing, healthwise, holding him back is that his lungs collapsed when he was 18.  I read that the only time they will use that to turn you down is if it is an ongoing problem and proves to hold you back from the job.  Is this true?  Would it help if he got checked out by a doctor and the doctor signed off on it?

2.  He has never been to college.  Will this hurt his chances?

3.  How do they determine what type of work a person does?  Do they assign different roles (traffic, domestic issues, etc.) to different people who seem good for the job, or does he get to choose and they make sure that he is good enough for that area?

4.  Are there any special items that he should study prior to attending the academy?  We've read up on the city website, and it advised that he should have a general idea of the laws of our city, county, and state.  How general?  Will they train him in the academy?  What level of knowledge should he enter the academy with?

5.  Do you suggest any special physical training prior to applying?  

I'll leave it at that for now.  I'm sure there will be more later... :)

THANK YOU!!!  We really appreciate it.

Answer
Eva:

 No problem!  Here are your questions, and my answers..



1.  He is 25 years old and in good health.  The only thing, healthwise, holding him back is that his lungs collapsed when he was 18.  I read that the only time they will use that to turn you down is if it is an ongoing problem and proves to hold you back from the job.  Is this true?  Would it help if he got checked out by a doctor and the doctor signed off on it?

It would certainly help, but as long as he can pass a basic physical and his doctor certifies him as physically fit, it shouldn't be an issue.

2.  He has never been to college.  Will this hurt his chances?

No, unless the department he's applying for requires it.  Most agencies like folks to have a degree but it's not something they require.   


3.  How do they determine what type of work a person does?  Do they assign different roles (traffic, domestic issues, etc.) to different people who seem good for the job, or does he get to choose and they make sure that he is good enough for that area?

Everyone goes into 'patrol', when they start out, which handles all of those issues.  That's where he'll be for several years at least, then he'll be able to apply for speciality units and things that interest him.  Main concern right now should be getting hired, and getting through the academy.

4.  Are there any special items that he should study prior to attending the academy?  We've read up on the city website, and it advised that he should have a general idea of the laws of our city, county, and state.  How general?  Will they train him in the academy?  What level of knowledge should he enter the academy with?

Basic reading and writing skills as well as what the city website suggested.  He will be fully trained in the academy I assure you, on everything he needs to know.  

5.  Do you suggest any special physical training prior to applying?

No.  Run, do situps/pushups/pullups, things like that.  Find out the standard that the academy and the prospective agency, require, and work towards that goal.

Lastly, if possible, he should do a 'ride along' with the agency if that is allowed.  It will give him a better idea of what a patrol officers day to day duties are and what to expect.

Jason