USSS UD or USCP

[foxmulder]

I was recently offered a position by both the USSS UD and the USCP. Both agencies told me that they have training classes set for july. I was wondering if anyone out there could give me some of the positives and negatives of both agencies. I'm relatively young (23) and i think both would make out for great experience, maybe even great careers. Just wondering if anyone had info on the stuff that you are not told by the recruiters and some of the officers. Thanks!

[tunlrat]

Congrats mulder. I haven't worked for either but have talked to several USCP officers. USCP has more special units to include dignitary protection--the equivalent to USSS Special Agents. You won't get that at USSS UD, unless you're lucky enough & they LET you transfer over.The USCP itself seems bigger so that equates to more lateral movement & promotion potential. Just my 2 cents.

Out of curiousity, how long was your app. process for both depts?

[unidos]

what is USCP?

[john2190]

United States Capitol Police. Also, I think USCP does a little more Law Enforcement vs. Guarding buildings.

[foxmulder]

Thanks for some of the info. I have also have been told that USCP handles more law enforcement than the USSS UD. I began the application process for both agencies approximately one year ago. I completed everything for USSS UD within three months, except for the bi which was recently completely. As far as USCP, I turned in my app, and took the written last June, in feb '04 I completed everything else, and both agencies notified me a few days ago.

[tunlrat]

Mulder,
Congrats again. A year wait? That's actually pretty good nowadays for the big G. If you go for USCP, I think they're still sending them to FLETC Glynco, Georgia. If you go to USSS UD, I heard they're sending them FLETC Artesia, New Mexico. I've been to FLETC Glynco but not FLETC Artesia. I have been to NM though. Now that's it's summer, you'll have to weigh whether you want a hot & humid 12 weeks or a dry & hot 12 weeks!

[foxmulder]

i believe that I'm going to take the position with USCP. From what i know, and the information that I've gathered it seems to be a place where people want to work, and there is great room for advancement. By the way, what is FLETC GA like? what do I have to look forward to, is there anything that the training there can be compared to? and what are the essentials that I'll need while there.

[DC_Field]

USCP has a number of specialties that you can apply for. For some you will have to complete your probationary year, others are available immediately.
USCP does have more traditional LE than the USSS UD, just the way things work because USCP covers a larger area (geographic) and has more people in and out of its buildings. The Capitol, 10 other buildings on the hill, soon to include the Library of Congress.

Ask if you are going to be in a dorm or a hotel before you do all of your packing. If in a hotel in Georgia you will have a TV/vcr, microwave and fridge provided.

Classes are easy if you pay attention during lectures. PT is easy if you come down in ok shape and commit yourself to improving, instructors doing EVERYTHING with you. No sitting there yelling at you to take another lap.

Good luck!!

[cobravenom1]

FLETC, the place where most federal LEOs solidify thier commitment and start thier journey to greatness. But first you must endure the rigors of Glynco. Don't bother looking up where FLETC, Glynco is on a map (it's not on any map). If you are very lucky, you will be assigned one of the rooms in the new facilities outside the back gate. It has all the accommodations of a hotel. It was still being completed when I was there a few years ago but they moved my class into it when the rooms were done. If you are unfortunate and have to stay at a hotel off the facility, that can very quickly get bothersome trying to keep up with the bus schedules and facility cafeteria hours. Bring bug repellant if you plan on spending any time outside a building. Some of the essentials include an umbrella, rain jacket/windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes (lots of walking), cell phone (long distance calls), postage stamps, pictures of friends/loved ones, favorite snacks, credit card with at least a $500 limit, good sense of humor, and anything that will keep you from getting bored. If you are willing to drive to FLETC do so. Students who had thier own vehicles seemed to enjoy FLETC more than others and did not ride the buses unless it was required. Ask your agency for permission first if you decide to drive. Your fellow student popularity points are higher if you have a truck/SUV. Good Luck and Congrats!!!!

[tunlrat]

If you can bring your POV, do so! You & your classmates will thank you later. Get off campus whenever you can to keep your sanity. Definitely bring some kind of repellant & some of those bug candles when those pesky knats follow you inside your room. If you got a laptop or dvd player bring it or you'll be bored out of your head afterschool (after some time, billiards & ping pong gets old). Bring v- neck under shirts too unless you want to go el fresco underneath your uniform blouse. Bring some good black police type boots--you can keep your ankles dry on those rainy days (watch out for those puddles & those NPS guys speeding past on their bikes splashing water all over the place). Although corframs can be quite comfy on hot days & easy to get out of & fit in those tiny locker room lockers.. I hope you like chicken on Mondays, & on Tuesdays, & Wednesdays...Ahh, Glynco--don't forget what happens at FLETC, stays at FLETC.

Say hello to DJ Katz, if you're filipino--run like hell.