Benjamin Ambrosio - Things You Should Consider Before Becoming a Police Officer

A career in law enforcement can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Benjamin Ambrosio has been on the New York City Police Force for over a decade and enjoys the job security and fringe benefits being a police office brings. Before taking the leap and trying your hand at a new career as a police officer, there are a few things you need to know. Here are some of the top things you need to consider before becoming a police officer.
1.The hiring process is often a long and difficult one. You are no longer able to simply walk into your local police department, fill out an application, and land a job. The hiring process for law enforcement can take as long as twelve months to complete.
2.The background check that is performed is thorough. It will most likely include your criminal history, a credit check, and a look into your work history. You may even be subjected to a polygraph exam, a medical exam, and a fitness test.
3.Training at the police academy will be tough. Not only do you have to succeed academically, but you have to be physically strong as well. You have to qualify with a firearm, demonstrate proficiency in defensive tactics, first aid, and driving.

4.The field training is even tougher than academy training. If you don't meet their standards, everything you've gone through up until this point will be all for naught. Every move you make will be scrutinized and evaluated.
5.You won't be working a normal nine to five job. The hours are long and irregular as a police officer. Along with working late nights or early mornings, you will have to give up a lot of weekends and holidays.
6.The long hours can cause fatigue. This can be brought on by excessive overtime, too much off-duty work, poor sleep habits, bad dietary choices and excess stress.