Hi,

 

I've been attempting to pursue a Career in Corrections for around a year now. I plan to stay in corrections for at least 4-6 years to better further my knowledge and experience hands on to go into Law Enforcement. Here is my problem, I don't have a high school diploma and I'm currently getting my GED. As I understand, this puts me at a large disadvantage already. I live in a Small town and plan to work at the county jail as a CO (Jail is not large). The requirements they list are Diploma or GED and at least 19 years of age, and no past-experience needed as they train you.

 

Overall, I'm a good guy. I don't drink, party, smoke, or are related to any illegal activities. I don't result to anger quickly, I'm respectful and know what is expected of me. My dream is to pursue this career, and during this past year preparing for this career I've lost 70 pounds and am now fit and healthy. Even though no military experience, and a GED, do you think It's even possible to get employed with them? During the time in corrections I plan to try and get my Criminal Justice degree, that way it improves my chanced with a PD/SO including my past experience in corrections. Any advise is appreciated.

 

Best Regards,

Caleb

always have a plan B if you dont get in and uh..... work hard

best of luck!

 You need post secondary honestly, unless the position you're applying for has few applicants, which in this day and age is unlikely unless you live in a smaller area(like, really small).

 I'm not saying don't apply, I'm saying get started on a degree as soon as you can, though it doesn't necessarily have to be CJ/Police related.

1 hour ago, ETFStorm said:

 You need post secondary honestly, unless the position you're applying for has few applicants, which in this day and age is unlikely unless you live in a smaller area(like, really small).

 I'm not saying don't apply, I'm saying get started on a degree as soon as you can, though it doesn't necessarily have to be CJ/Police related.

I do live in a small area, there are 2 jails near me that house at maximum 80 inmates.

I planned to get a degree, but do you really think it is necessary to get it before going into corrections? I understand that It would make it look better, but from what I've read, is the only thing to qualify is Age 19, and diploma or GED. I'm just asking, cause It would sure suck to get a degree before hand, and later find out I didn't need it. 

4 minutes ago, atCaleb said:

I do live in a small area, there are 2 jails near me that house at maximum 80 inmates.

I planned to get a degree, but do you really think it is necessary to get it before going into corrections? I understand that It would make it look better, but from what I've read, is the only thing to qualify is Age 19, and diploma or GED. I'm just asking, cause It would sure suck to get a degree before hand, and later find out I didn't need it. 

go over and beyond dont just do the qualified specs and even if you dont get the job you still have that degree

4 minutes ago, atCaleb said:

I do live in a small area, there are 2 jails near me that house at maximum 80 inmates.

I planned to get a degree, but do you really think it is necessary to get it before going into corrections? I understand that It would make it look better, but from what I've read, is the only thing to qualify is Age 19, and diploma or GED. I'm just asking, cause It would sure suck to get a degree before hand, and later find out I didn't need it. 

 It honestly all depends on how many applicants the jail gets and how many positions they have open. If you and John Doe apply, and you have relatively similar resumes/backgrounds but John Doe has post-secondary, John Doe is gonna get the job 9 times out of 10. I don't know where you live or how big your area is so in the end it's gonna be your call. 

  In regards to policing 19 seems a bit young but I honestly have no idea about corrections in that regard. Go ahead and apply if you feel you're ready, it can't really hurt.

 

 Best of luck. 

1 hour ago, awsomeboy232 said:

go over and beyond dont just do the qualified specs and even if you dont get the job you still have that degree

Very true.

Thanks for the advise. :)

Just now, atCaleb said:

Very true.

Thanks for the advise. :)

anytime gook luck, i hope it all wotks out man!

Minimum hiring standards don't mean anything. They only show you the minimum legal qualifications for the job. If you don't have anything on your application that makes you stand out, and/or know anybody at where you are applying, your resume will be just another one added to the "no" pile.

I know it's harsh, but it's true.

Edited May 17, 20169 yr by TylerF