|
If you have passed a police department application process, you are now ready to begin your education within the police academy. This is an exciting, 6-month adventure that will prepare you for any number of police officer jobs in California. Just like most students anticipating their first semester at a college, you're likely a little bit nervous about what you can expect and what your overall experience at the academy will be like. Luckily, thousands of people have undergone this training and are willing to give you a little sneak peek into the academy as well as a little advice on how to make the most of your time there. They Pay You One of the first things you should know about training at the academy is that there is no cost. They actually pay you to be there! The starting salary you were offered upon your acceptance into the department of your choice will begin as soon as you start your time at the academy. This is important and fairly unique to police departments as many training programs in other careers do not pay you until the completion of the training program and often require some kind of investment from their trainees. Make Necessary Preparations The next most important thing to understand is that this is not going to be an easy task. Chances are that since you made it through the application process, you don't quit. One of the reasons the application process is so rigorous is that the academy is rigorous. If someone can't make it through the application process, there is no way they are going to make it through the mental and physical demands of a police academy. If you are married or have a family, it is probably a good idea to explain what you are about to go through and ask the family for extra support during the next 6 months. Coming up with a plan for how finances and housework should be handled during this time is a great idea that may lead to a more peaceful change in formerly traditional domestic roles. Expect Academic Rigor While most people recognize that a career in police work is physically demanding, few people are aware that it also has an extremely rigorous academic side. Some of the subjects trainees will learn include procedural instructions like how to arrest someone, how to conduct a thorough investigation, how to write reports correctly, and how to enforce laws within the confines of the constitution. This will involve studying. While you are at the academy, you need to be able to devote substantial time outside of the classroom to mastering the concepts taught within it. Department-Specific Studies Depending on which department you are working for, you may also need to study other things such as a foreign language. As more and more Spanish-speaking immigrants make their way into the United States, the ability of police officers to communicate with them has become increasingly important. If you work for a police department that is located within an area that is largely Spanish-speaking, you will likely be required to take language classes. Get Physically Active Besides all of the work you will be doing with your mind, your body will also be going through extreme stress. While you can take comfort in knowing you passed the physical exam portion of the application process, you should be aware that those requirements were merely a test as to whether you could handle the academy. From here on out, fitness will be a major part of your training, and it will be rigorous. As part of your physical training, you will be given classes in self-defense techniques that are necessary for Police Officer Jobs in California.
Related Articles -
Police, Officer, Jobs, in, California,
|
