I’m currently in grad school, scheduled to graduate in 2026, but given the job market in my field (federal government administration), I’m strongly considering a career in law enforcement. It had been something I’ve considered in the years since starting college, but I always thought I’d give myself options.
It’s been nearly two years since I last smoked weed, and that was an isolated incident. I haven’t been a consistent smoker in over 5 years. Generally, PD policy says 2 years for weed and 5 for everything else. I was only ever a social smoker (once a week at most generally speaking), but I’m curious about how they’ll weight that against me.
Also concerned about my personal history from my high school years. I’d smoke, drink, and steal shit like candy and drinks from stores on a fairly regular basis. It’s been nearly 7 years since I’ve graduated HS, and it’ll be over 8 by the time I interview with a PD. How fucked, if at all, am I? I’m truly not that person AT ALL anymore, but it’s basically my word against theirs.
Do I get the chance to explain myself and articulate that I’ve matured in the years since? Or am I kinda screwed? I have no problem admitting to that stuff and being transparent/honest, because I’m quite sure of myself.
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I’d really appreciate any sort of advice. I don’t really want to go through the process of applying if I’ll likely be DQ’d because of past marijuana consumption.
Just be upfront about it. Explain that You freely admit that you made stupid teenage mistakes, none of which were life altering but you learned your lesson. I went to high school with some of the biggest shit heads around at the time, who 8 years later made damn good cops!!! The fact you finished grad school speaks to the fact you changed your life and grew up while doing it.