I'm really interested in working for the DEA after serving in the military. Are there any specific MOS (Military Occupational Specialties) that you would recommend for someone looking to transition into that line of work?
There's definitely some Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) that can provide an excellent foundation for transitioning to a career in the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration). Here are some examples:
1. Military Police (MOS 31B in the Army or MOS 5811 in the Marines): As a military police officer, you'll gain experience in law enforcement practices, crime prevention, and police procedures, which are directly transferable to work in the DEA.
2. Intelligence Analyst (MOS 35F in the Army or MOS 0231 in the Marines): This MOS provides a background in gathering, processing, and analyzing intelligence, which is crucial in the DEA's fight against drug trafficking.
3. Criminal Investigations Special Agent (MOS 31D in the Army): Special agents are essentially detectives in the military, conducting investigations into serious crimes like drug trafficking. This kind of experience is highly sought after in the DEA.
4. Counterintelligence Agent (MOS 35L in the Army or MOS 0211 in the Marines): In this role, you are responsible for detecting, identifying, neutralizing, and exploiting foreign intelligence activities, which can be extraordinarily valuable when transitioning to the DEA which often collaborates with international agencies.
It's key to note that while these MOS choices can indeed provide a great foundation and specific skills as I've outlined, the DEA considers many factors during the recruitment process. This ranges from physical fitness and character traits to education and any prior drug use. Therefore, choosing an MOS that aligns with your interest and gives you the best preparation for your career aspirations is crucial. Always talk to a recruitment officer to get a comprehensive understanding of what each MOS entails and how it might align with your future career goals.
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