I have a plan in mind but I'm not sure if it's plausible. My goal is to go to college, join the military afterwards for some experience, and eventually apply to the FBI. Is this a good path? Has anyone here taken a similar route who could provide some advice?
This is indeed a plausible path towards a career in the FBI, and it's admirable that you're setting your sights on a career that requires such a commitment to public service. Many individuals choose to join the FBI after serving in the military.
By first earning a degree in college, you're going to be an attractive candidate for both the military and the FBI. A bachelor's degree is required for an FBI Special Agent position; common fields of study include criminal justice, homeland security, or psychology, but the FBI values a wide variety of academic backgrounds. A college degree is also beneficial in the military, particularly if you're interested in becoming an officer.
Next, serving in the military can provide valuable experience. You can develop skills in fields like intelligence, law enforcement, or cybersecurity, depending on your role, and these skills would certainly be appreciated by the FBI. Being a military veteran also gives you a certain hiring preference when you apply to federal jobs.
It's also important to keep in mind that the FBI requires applicants to be between the ages of 23 and 36. So, planning your military service and ensuring you meet this requirement when you're ready to move into the FBI is vital.
For more personalized advice, it would be helpful if you could share what field or occupational specialty you have in mind for your time in the military, as well as what role you're interested in at the FBI. It's also worth considering speaking to a professional career counselor or a recruiter from the each organization to get a clearer picture of what skills and experiences would be the most beneficial.
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