So I’m currently 22 and I’ve always wanted a career in law enforcement. I understand that for the most part they hire older people due to maturity reasons but I genuinely do believe that I am mature for my age. A lot of kids my age go to parties or post cringy af videos ect but I’ve never really been like that. I’ve always have a “more serious approach” on things. Idk it’s hard to explain. My question is what are some good qualifications to have that would help make the recruiters put aside my age and give me a good competitive advantage? I know that I can prove my maturity during the interview, but are there any things I can do on the side like first aid ect to stand out?
Thanks in advance
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Not a LEO and am a little younger then you but still looking for a career in law enforcement during a ride along the officer suggested getting a community college degree or enlisting in national guard. He also suggested learning a martial arts as it shows discipline. Also doing a government job helps like parks and rec or even a crossing guard as it shows you care about your community.
The biggest things that demonstrate maturity are holding a job or volunteer position for a long period of time and references (especially professional) who speak to your maturity, not how much you engage in socialization with your peers. If anything, a lack of the latter harms you more than it helps.
Anyone can pretend to be mature for an interview, and LE recruiters know that.
Broadly speaking, people who think they’re more mature than their peers often aren’t.