Entry-level Positions for Aspiring Police Officers at UCLA Police Department
Entry-level positions in policing don't have a "one size fits all" approach; however, experience in programs like "explorer programs" or "CSO programs," prior experience as an EMT or paramedic, or military service are beneficial, as is community involvement and demonstrating a commitment to public service. Seeking ride-alongs and building a supportive network are crucial given the "grueling process" of police academy training.
Community Engagement, Law Enforcement Training, Physical Fitness, Teamwork and Collaboration, Support System
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Lindsay Schirner
Police Officer
UCLA Police Department Department
UCLA, 2015
n/a
History, Art History
Government & Public Sector
Legal
Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Many universities have either an explorer program or a CSO program, which are beneficial to becoming a police officer.
2. Having basic CPR and first aid skills is a huge leg up and really helpful in this field.
3. Volunteering in your community and getting to know your community will give you a taste of what the job will be like and is highly encouraged.
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider pursuing?
There's really no one particular size fits all for going into policing. There are some general basic requirements. You have to be a US citizen and at least 21 years old when you graduate the academy.
You must also be a high school graduate or have a GED. Additionally, a valid driver's license is required, along with a clean record.
However, there are things you can do to help make the process a little easier. Many universities have an explorer or CSO program. Both programs are similar: you act as the eyes and ears for the campus.
CSOs or explorers are typically stationed at a particular building and act as unarmed security guards. They will have a radio, and if they see something, they'll report it to the police station for a response. This is sort of like ROTC is to the military – it’s a form of training.
This experience is certainly beneficial to becoming a police officer. We also have police officers who were former EMTs or paramedics. That's really helpful because we do deal with accidents and traffic collisions.
Having basic CPR and first aid skills can be a huge leg up and really helpful. A lot of our officers are former military. It translates very well, as policing is structured in a paramilitary way.
I would also say to volunteer in your community. Get to know your community and take on some kind of responsibility. Having a visible presence and acting as a public servant will give you a taste of what the job is actually like.
I also encourage people to play sports and stay active for their physical well-being. This is important, and you also learn team building.
Talk to police officers and go to your local police station. Ask to go on a ride-along. Just do your best to learn as much as you can about the job and get experience. This will help you figure out if it's something you want to do.
It's a huge commitment. If you can learn and articulate why you want to do this career, that will be very beneficial. Get your family on board, because you'll need that support system through the academy and training.
It's a grueling process. If you come home to people who are apathetic or not supportive, it will make the process so much harder.
Advizer Personal Links
No thank you :)