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Exploring Careers in Federal Law Enforcement: A Lawrence Student’s Guide

Federal law enforcement careers—such as roles with the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and other agencies—offer challenging yet rewarding opportunities for those dedicated to protecting public safety and upholding the law. For Lawrence students considering this career path, there are several aspects to consider, from academic preparation to practical experiences and personal traits.

Academic Preparation

Focus on Relevant Majors:
While criminal justice degrees are often preferred when starting a career in local law enforcement, it is not a requirement. In fact, many police departments require candidates to complete training at a police academy. The academy provides the necessary education in law enforcement techniques, legal procedures, and physical training.

Lawrence students should consider pursuing degrees government or psychology. Those programs, coupled with Lawrentian’s skilled in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving are highly sought after by law enforcement at all levels.  Additionally, specialized classes in international relations, cybersecurity, accounting, or foreign languages can be advantageous, especially for federal agencies that deal with international or technologically sophisticated cases.

Develop Critical Skills:

  • Analytical Thinking: Courses in statistics, research methods, and data analysis help develop the ability to process and interpret complex information.
  • Communication: Both written and verbal communication skills are essential, as law enforcement officers often prepare reports, testify in court, and work within teams.
  • Ethical Decision-Making: Understanding ethics and legal frameworks through coursework in criminal law or ethics ensures a strong moral foundation for the challenges ahead.

Hands-on Experiences in College

Internships and Field Programs:
Securing internships with local law enforcement agencies or federal agencies’ outreach programs can provide invaluable exposure. Many communities offer internships, ride-along programs, or even volunteer opportunities within police departments.

Simulation Exercises and Workshops:
Participate in training exercises, mock investigations, forensic labs, or research. These practical experiences not only hone technical skills but also give a taste of the real-world scenarios encountered in law enforcement.

Join or Start Relevant Clubs and Organizations:
Consider joining or forming clubs related to criminal justice, legal issues, or ROTC programs. These groups often host guest speakers, offer mentorship, and create networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

Additional Ways to Prepare

Networking and Mentorship:
Attend career fairs, seminars, and law enforcement conferences. Networking with professionals already in the field can provide insights into the day-to-day realities of the job and reveal pathways to internships or entry-level positions.

Academic Research Projects:
Engage in research related to criminal justice policies, law enforcement practices, or emerging challenges in security. This not only deepens your academic understanding but also builds a resume that highlights your initiative and expertise.

Certifications and Extra Training:
Explore certifications in areas like cybersecurity, first aid, or even self-defense. Many federal agencies value candidates who go beyond their college curriculum to acquire practical skills.

The Role of Military Experience and Local Policing

Military Experience:
Many federal law enforcement agencies appreciate military backgrounds. Military training instills discipline, physical fitness, leadership, and stress management—all qualities that translate well into law enforcement roles. Veterans often have an edge during the hiring process, thanks to their proven track record of teamwork and resilience.

Local Police Department Experience:
Starting a career in a local police department can provide a solid foundation. This experience exposes you to the fundamentals of law enforcement, community relations, and the practical challenges of policing. However, it’s important to recognize that federal law enforcement roles may involve additional responsibilities, broader jurisdiction, and more specialized training. Experience in local policing can serve as a stepping stone, but it is essential to continually update your skills and knowledge to meet federal standards.

Pros and Cons of Working in Law Enforcement

The Advantages:

  • Sense of Purpose: Many officers find deep fulfillment in serving and protecting their communities.
  • Career Stability and Advancement: Law enforcement often offers clear career paths and opportunities for advancement, along with competitive benefits.
  • Variety and Challenge: The dynamic nature of law enforcement means no two days are the same, providing intellectual and physical challenges that keep the work engaging.

The Challenges:

  • High Stress and Risk: The job often involves dangerous situations, long hours, and high levels of stress.
  • Bureaucratic Hurdles: Navigating complex regulations and protocols can sometimes be frustrating.
  • Public Scrutiny: Increased media attention and public expectations demand continuous professionalism and ethical conduct, which can add pressure to the role.

Who Best Fits This Line of Work?

Federal law enforcement roles are best suited for individuals who are:

  • Disciplined and Resilient: The ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain a high level of integrity is crucial.
  • Detail-Oriented: Precision in both investigative work and documentation is essential.
  • Strong Communicators: Effective interpersonal and communication skills facilitate teamwork and community relations.
  • Adaptable Problem-Solvers: The capacity to quickly analyze situations and adapt to new challenges is vital in an ever-changing field.
  • Ethically Grounded: A deep commitment to upholding the law and ethical principles is fundamental to success in federal law enforcement.

Career Outlook and Future Prospects

The demand for skilled law enforcement professionals remains steady, with evolving challenges such as cybercrime, terrorism, and organized crime ensuring that agencies continually adapt. Federal law enforcement careers are expected to remain robust, particularly for those with advanced training in technology, intelligence, and specialized investigative skills. Continuous professional development and adaptability will be key in a field that is both highly competitive and mission-critical.

Conclusion

Pursuing a career in federal law enforcement is both challenging and highly rewarding. By focusing on relevant academic programs, seeking hands-on experiences, networking with professionals, and considering paths like military service or local policing, college students can build a strong foundation for a successful career in this field. With a clear understanding of both the opportunities and challenges, aspiring law enforcement professionals can embark on a journey that not only builds a stable career but also contributes significantly to national security and public service.

Breaking into Federal Contracting: A Guide for Lawrence Students

If you’re career options in government, you may not have considered federal contracting—but you should. Federal contractors work with the U.S. government to provide goods and services in industries ranging from defense to healthcare to technology. These jobs offer competitive salaries, valuable experience, and, in many cases, strong job security. In this article, we’ll walk you through the world of federal contracting, how to get hired, and what kind of stability you can expect in this career path.

What is Federal Contracting?

Federal contractors are private companies or individuals who enter into legally binding agreements with the U.S. government to provide specific goods or services. Some of the biggest names in federal contracting include Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing, Deloitte, and Amazon Web Services. Contractors are responsible for building military aircraft, managing cybersecurity systems, conducting medical research, and much more.

Federal contracts are divided into two main categories:

  • Prime Contractors – These companies have direct contracts with the federal government.
  • Subcontractors – These companies support prime contractors by fulfilling parts of larger contracts.

Why Consider a Career with a Federal Contractor?

If you’re looking for a stable and rewarding career, federal contracting is worth exploring. Here’s why:

1. High Demand & Competitive Salaries

The U.S. government spends hundreds of billions of dollars annually on federal contracts. In FY 2023, contract spending reached approximately $750 billion, with sectors like defense, IT, and healthcare receiving the biggest shares. This means contractors are constantly looking for skilled professionals, and they pay well to attract top talent.

2. Strong Job Security

Unlike private-sector jobs that can be heavily impacted by economic downturns, federal contracting tends to be more stable. Government projects often span multiple years, ensuring steady employment for workers. Additionally, national security, infrastructure, and healthcare needs don’t go away, making these roles essential.

3. Career Growth & Government Exposure

Working with a federal contractor allows you to gain experience with government agencies like the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA, or the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This can open doors to future federal employment or leadership roles within the private sector.

How to Land a Job with a Federal Contractor

1. Identify Companies That Hire Federal Contractors

Start by researching companies that regularly win federal contracts. Some of the biggest players include:

  • Technology & Cybersecurity: Amazon Web Services, Leidos, Booz Allen Hamilton
  • Defense & Aerospace: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics
  • Healthcare & Research: McKesson, Pfizer, UnitedHealth Group
  • Consulting & Professional Services: Deloitte, Accenture Federal, KPMG

Resources like USA Spending.gov and the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) can help you track government contract spending and identify potential employers.

2. Search for Job Openings

Once you’ve identified potential employers, look for openings on:

  • Company Career Pages – Check the hiring sections of contractor websites.
  • Job Boards – LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor frequently list contractor jobs.
  • ClearanceJobs.com – Great for positions requiring a security clearance.

3. Build the Right Skillset

Many federal contracting jobs require specialized skills, such as:

  • Cybersecurity & IT – Consider certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP.
  • Engineering & Science – A degree in aerospace, civil engineering, or biotech can be advantageous.
  • Project Management & Consulting – Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) are valuable.
  • Security Clearance – Many jobs require at least a Secret or Top Secret clearance, which employers may help you obtain.

4. Network & Use Referrals

Building connections in the federal contracting space can help you land interviews. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations like the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), and connect with hiring managers on LinkedIn.

5. Prepare for the Hiring Process

  • Background Checks & Drug Tests – Be ready for thorough screenings.
  • Security Clearance Process – If required, expect an in-depth background investigation.
  • Behavioral & Technical Interviews – Show that you understand government regulations and industry best practices.

What About Job Security in Federal Contracting?

One of the biggest perks of federal contracting is job security—but it comes with some caveats. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Long-Term Contracts = Stability – Many federal contracts last multiple years, meaning companies need employees to complete projects.
  • Government Budgets Drive Hiring – Jobs in defense, healthcare, and IT remain steady due to ongoing government funding.
  • Renewal & Recompete Risks – Some contracts need to be renewed, and if a different company wins the contract, employees may need to transition to a new employer.
  • Security Clearance = In-Demand Skill – If you hold a security clearance, you are highly valuable, and many companies will seek to retain or hire you.

Final Thoughts

Federal contracting offers college graduates a pathway to well-paying, stable jobs that contribute to critical government missions. Whether you’re interested in cybersecurity, engineering, healthcare, or consulting, there’s likely a contracting job that fits your skill set.

By researching employers, building the right skills, and networking strategically, you can secure a rewarding career in this growing field. If you’re ready to explore opportunities, start browsing job boards and company websites today—your future in federal contracting might be just a few clicks away!

USAJOBS Career Explorer

There are thousands of jobs in the federal government and finding the one right for you can be an exhaustive process. Have you ever wondered if there was an easier way to determine which federal government job is the best fit for your interests? There is! The USAJOBS Career Explorer helps job seekers find occupations in the federal government that align with their career interests.

Job seekers answer a series of questions (10-15 minutes) that result in a matched list of federal occupational series. The list offers explanation of jobs in plain language and links to relevant open job announcements. The Career Explorer covers over 300 occupations in the General Schedule and Wage Grade pay scale. 

Try the USAJOBS Career Explorer!

Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program

Did you know that less than 7% of the full-time federal workforce is under 30? The government is looking to change that. They’re prioritizing paid internships that last 10-12 weeks. These internships are a great way to gain work experience, expand your professional network, and understand the impact of public service.

The program is managed by the Partnership for Public Service and it’s a fantastic opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in school to real-world situations. It’s also a chance to bring diverse young talent into the government. So, whether you’re an undergrad, grad student, or professional student, and no matter what your major is, you’re welcome to apply.

You can choose two career tracks that best align with your interests and skills:

  • Public Administration
  • Science, Mathematics, and Engineering
  • Government Contracting and Acquisition
  • Liberal Arts
  • Public Interest Technology

For more information, visit gogovernment.org/fellowship/future-leaders-in-public-service-internship-program/

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference!

Virtual Student Federal Service Internship

by Jonathan Hogan

Among the internships offered by the Department of State, the most accessible in terms of acceptance rate while also granting interns valuable insight into a career in the State Department is The Virtual Student Federal Service internship.

The Virtual Student Federal Service Program is best summed up in an advertisement posted by the federal government. It states: “1: State & other U.S. agencies post unclassified projects that might leverage talent. 2: U.S. college, masters, Ph.D. & post-doc students apply to three projects. 3: … and that’s it! Selected interns work virtually for agencies Sept-May.” To apply, interns (which must be U.S. citizens) simply go through the U.S. federal jobs platform USAJOBS, and, after creating an account, submit a “resume, transcript & short responses” (“How It Works”). To make things even easier, the Career Center has already released an article on how to create a USAJOBS account—just click this link. Here, It is worth noting that federal agencies other than the Department of State participate in the program, however, it seems that the Department of State is particularly active in the program.

If the Virtual Student Federal Service Internship has piqued your interest, you might be wondering what the experience is actually like. In general, interns work between September and May for roughly 10 hours a week. Furthermore, interns can work anywhere in the world. The internship is not paid, however, many interns receive credit for their work—something which feels particularly likely at Lawrence. It is difficult to discuss specifics, as the program is based around a nearly unending array of projects posted by the State Department; however, at the moment of writing, one project is already posted to the website which would see students work as research assistants on the Afghanistan Lessons Learned Project to examine “the goals, policies, strategies, and programs implemented” during U.S. involvement in Afghanistan (Virtual Student Federal Service). Given that the application deadline for this coming year is in July, more programs are likely to be posted shortly. If you determine that the Virtual Student Federal Service Internship is right for you, feel free to schedule an appointment with our government advisor, Ty Collins, for help with the application process here.

Jonathan is a Third Year German and Government major. He works as a Peer Educator to assist students in the CJW and GLI career communities. In addition to professional development, Jonathan is interested in the cultural construction of the modern nation-state, normative constraints on rational behavior, and all things German. You can schedule an appointment with him here to improve your resume, learn more about the CJW and GLI career opportunities, and work on anything else professional development-related.

Works Cited

“How It Works.” U.S. Department of State, https://careers.state.gov/interns-fellows/virtual-student-federal-service/how-it-works/. Accessed 3 May 2022.

Virtual Student Federal Service. https://vsfs.state.gov/projects. Accessed 3 May 2022.