HELP!Potential LEO or another application?

[wslady]

Hello everyone! I've been reading these posts for some time and although I've gotten a lot of information there are still questions I need help with so here goes....

I am 27, no military, no college. I am however a volly firefighter with 5 years and lots of training with good certs to show for it. I have always been interested in a career in LE particularly Sherrifs/county. I'm not favorable of being in the city all the time (country girl) and think hanging out at the jail for a shift or two is not a problem.

I am in excellent shape and intelligent. Also, my father was in military then federal then corrections now retired police so I have a good working knowledge of what the job calls for. I'm also well trained with various firearms and self-defense. (Thaks Dad!) I fully understand the steps of the hiring process but just don't understand how to get started.

Keep in mind there's a lot of the "good old boy" system still employed in my area and women are non existent on all but one of the 6 area county departments (and that's only 2 of them that sued).

My credit is not great & I have a check deception deferment from 3 1/2 years ago thanks to an account shared with my baby brother but other than that I have no real problems that I see. Yes, I have applied for out of state jobs also but never get any response. :(

Is there something on the application that I'm missing that they're looking for? Should I try for a reserve postion and work it that way? How much does it help to have college? What about getting in at the jails? I get conflicting stories on this one.

Around here you actually have to be hired somewhere to try and obtain any certifications unlike the fire service where you can train until you're blue and never be on a department. Should I lose the fire?

SIMPLY STATED: How do I become a desirable potential officer and not just another application? :confused:

Thanks in advance for the help. (Any input from those that have done/do hiring is especially welcome!):D I really do appreciate it.

[pointblanke]

It sounds like you definitely have the desire to do the job. I would definitely recommend going to college and working on an associate's degree. While you're in school look into maybe working in a local county jail. Some jails require college for their jail staff, others don't. It's a great way to "get your feet wet" and to get to know some local/county leo's. Your fire service will definitely not hurt you in the application process. As far as credit goes, make sure to disclose anything that is on your record during the background process and be able to show that you have made good on all of your debts. Good Luck!!!

[Cape804]

I agree with pointblanke. I would say to take some college classes. It will help you out getting a job in LE. Your past as a volunteer firefighter will help you as well. Good luck!

[WILawman]

I am 27, no military, no college. I am however a volly firefighter with 5 years and lots of training with good certs to show for it.

Although it is possible to be hired with no college or military, with today's applicants, it is more difficult. The bar has been raised in most states and departments. Depending on your personal history, the department might understand why there is no college or military experience. Being a volunteer firefighter is excellent and will be a benefit to you during the hiring process.

If moving is feasible, you might want to try larger departments or departments in more urban areas. These departments will generally accept minimum qualifications to fill their need for officers. Good Luck!