Hello all! I (22M) have been looking into this field for the past year or so while waiting for a federal career. (for the time being, on a hiatus for a medical DQ) I understand law enforcement for the most part, and I feel confident I’d be able to do this until the aforementioned federal position issue can be resolved. A few questions though;
First off, medical; I have ADHD, ASD, (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder, both high functioning)a mild eyesight issue, (fixable at 20/25) and less than ideal physical state. (never had too much upper body strength) Would any of these make it a pain to get into the career, and for the physical state, what can I do to train for academy? Medical history is clean save a seizure after an overdose of prescribed medication (I was supposed to have 1/3 the amount the neurologist prescribed, no long term issues on a CAT scan)
Second off, position; I live in a town of 8,000 people, county of 40,000, and state of Oklahoma with relative ease of access to Oklahoma City. What are pros and cons of each, and what should I apply to? I know some ask about politics in the area, but in general, I’m not on the same lean as the majority of the state I live in, so local politics vs state and all that doesn’t matter.
Third, are there any tips you would give to someone like me relating to the career and/or life outside the job itself? This is as open ended as you want.
Thanks to those who respond, and thanks to all in blue!
Comments
If you want to prep for the academy start running and hit the gym. Push ups, sit ups and pull ups.
How are your academics? You need to be able to read and write well.
ADHD and ASD are fine as long as you can get medical paperwork saying you’re cleared.
As for upper strength, you have to work at that. In the academy they’ll test you. Just don’t give up.
You’ll be fine. Apply
I have seen both of those diagnoses pass and I’ve seen people DQed because of them. Not the diagnosis itself but how it came out on testing and interview. I would still say apply, but also be prepared to explain any deficiencies and say why you don’t believe they would affect your ability to complete your duties.