Questions about my background

[ktseay10]

After reading many threads it sounds like even with a degree, it is difficult to find police work. I want to get some feedback on ways to stand out to employers. A little bit about myself, I am set to graduate at the end of July with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. I have great credit and just two speeding tickets on my record (both 15 over). I have smoked marijuana 6-8 times, with the last time being about two years ago. I know this looks bad but I was hanging around the wrong crowed, and I can’t change history. The only thing that I think is going to hurt me is a job where I was asked to resign. It was my first job and I was 15-16 years old. I was a member of the golf course for almost a year before I gained employment there. During that time I made friendships with many members. On one of my days off I went out to play golf with a member that I was good friends with beforeemployment. We got into a verbal argument and words were exchanged from both sides that would be considered racists. The other guy went to his parents about the situation even though we were good friends before. Long story short his parents complained. My boss called me into his office and explained the situation to me. He knew that the argument was from both sides but I was the employee. He asked me to quit, so I did. I was young and dumb and looking back should have handled the situation differently. Could I get some information from some background investigators as to how much this could hurt me? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[Kryb]

The employment thing should not be as big of a deal, considering it happened so long ago, and as long as your other work history is good, you should be alright with that. As for the marijuana usage, most departments seem to have a 3 year rule regarding pot. 6-8 times isn't too bad, but since it's only been 2 years, it may be a disqualifying factor at some departments.

Everybody has done some things they aren't proud, particularly when they were younger, including myself. I feel that the majority of departments, at least in my area, would be happy to hire you, provided you've never: tried any hard drugs, committed a felony, and have lived pretty much spot free for at least 3 years leading up to your application. Good luck, I'm in the same boat as you; about to graduate and get out in the world.

[ET109]

Same old story: doesn't look like DQs to me, but there is stuff there that would make you less marketable. The next question is "what do you bring to the table to stand out above the other about-to-graduate CJ majors"?

Military experience? Work as a reserve/part time? Speak three languages?

[Kryb]

Same old story: doesn't look like DQs to me, but there is stuff there that would make you less marketable. The next question is "what do you bring to the table to stand out above the other about-to-graduate CJ majors"?

Military experience? Work as a reserve/part time? Speak three languages?

I plan on joining the reserves as soon as I graduate and a big reason for that is that it'll be a huge plus on my applications. I would strongly encourage it as a resume booster.