Advise for an Explorer

[nhexplorerpost2]

Hello, I am a high school student in Indiana. I am currently the Lieutenant of my local police/public safety explorer post, and loving every moment of it. When I am old enough, I am planning on going into law enforcement as a career. I was wondering, what is some advise that you as a police officer can give to an explorer interested in the career of law enforcement. What more can I do to get a head start, and learn more? What are some reasons why I might night want the job? Thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this and post a reply. Your advice is valued.

[Dan]

Hello, I am a high school student in Indiana. I am currently the Lieutenant of my local police/public safety explorer post, and loving every moment of it. When I am old enough, I am planning on going into law enforcement as a career. I was wondering, what is some advise that you as a police officer can give to an explorer interested in the career of law enforcement. What more can I do to get a head start, and learn more? What are some reasons why I might night want the job? Thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this and post a reply. Your advice is valued.

not a LEO, but Ill offer advice(Im a Sgt. of my Explorer post).

From what Ive heard(and plan to do), its best to get some college(opens up a lot of doors). Ive seen more and more departments require at least a 2 year degree. Im planing to get a 4 yr degree. Don't worry about what your major is(uness you want to be in forensics or something like that), take something that you'll be interested in. If it intrests you, you will most likely do well in it. Also take a look at internships. A lot of the bigger/federal departments have internships.

I also plan to join some branch of the military afterwards(havent decided on which branch yet). Will give you great work/life experience, and a chance to give back. Plus most departments will give you extra points for military service.

[nhexplorerpost2]

Thank you very much for your advice, I plan on attending college. I too am planning on going into the military. I am hoping to go through the Air Force, and then to a college. I am a person who likes to have things planned way in advanced, and I am just trying to figure out what I can do more to get a heads up now, while I am still in high school. Does anyone know a great place to get law books such as probable cause books, and other things that might be good to someone who is in training?

[LawGurl32]

Get that diploma definetly!!! I strongly recommend at least a 2yr degree.

Go on ride alongs.
Educate yourself as much as you can about the profession, laws, statues, ect...
Ask lots of pertinitent questions.
Make your name known with good standing to the brass (if you can). Networking is important but dont come across like you are trying to kiss bootae.

uhm.. that is about all I can think of right now.

[nhexplorerpost2]

That is very good advice, I appreciate that a lot. So far I know my towns mayor very well, and he knows me. The police chief, leiutenant, the sergents, and most of the police department know me by first name, and status. I am also a student member of my towns city council, where most of the city councilmen know me too.

I really really want to study laws, statues, and things like that, but I do not know how to go about doing so.

[greenlead]

nh, please PM me where you are in Indiana. (did i already get an email from you on our website? let me check...)

Always a pleasure to meet a fellow Hoosier LE explorer!

[mcsap]

DON'T use drugs, dont go drinking or doing STUPID stuff that MAY haunt you later on in life as you apply to become an LEO.

[ogdogg16]

Yea I'd say keep your speed down, keep positive relationships with neighbors/former and current employers, lay off drugs completely, and stay away from alcohol as much as possible. If you are interested in the stuff I'd say go for it and study laws and such. However, at least any department I know of, you won't get an edge because you know this.

As far as going to the AF, don't go soley to put on your resume. It's not all fun an games. A friend of mine in the AF is getting ready to go back to Iraq for a second tour. There is a chance nowadays that you are gonna see some combat. If you are willing to accept the possibility that you may wind up in war, go for it! While he is on base out there he is going to school paid for in full by the AF. He works half a day and goes to class for the other half.

Good luck and be smart! BTW, im not a cop.