NEWS YOU CAN USE TODAY MAY 2017

SNHU CJ NEWS – MAY 2017 – P. 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MAY CAREER THEME: COURT & HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CAREERS

CJ CAREER TESTIMONIAL & EVENT ................................ 2 FREEZES, FURLOUGHS, & FEDS… OH MY! ..................... 4 OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT ......................... 5 FEDERAL WEBINAR SERIES JUNE 2017 SCHEDULE .......... 6 ON THE HUNT ............................................................... 6 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT ..................................................... 7 JOB ANNOUNCEMENTS ................................................ 7 WHICH AGENCIES COMPRISE THE DHS? ........................ 8 CAREER PLANNING OUTLINE FOR YOU ........................ 10 CONTACT ..................................................................... 11

CJ Career at SNHU continues to explore various career paths that you can pursue with your CJ degree. As with all of our newsletters, this one is dedicated to the idea of career planning. For those of you still undecided about which path to take, this is an opportunity for you to research your options. Take a look at this issue as we explore Homeland Security and Emergency Management Careers! PREVIEW OF TOPICS TO COME….

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CJ - - MAY SNHU CAREER EVENTS

LOG ON FROM YOUR COMPUTER, PHONE OR TABLET & BE A PART OF THESE INFORMATIVE EVENTS THAT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR JOB SEARCH!

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A FEDERAL CAREER IN HOMELAND SECURITY OR EMERGENCY MANAGMENT?

BESIDES YOUR DEGREE, WHAT FOUNDATION ARE YOU LAYING FOR YOUR CAREER SEARCH?

In our March issue, we went into great detail about career planning and how important it is to your long-term job search. This is the sole purpose of this newsletter – to provide you with the information you need to start executing your career plan – while you are pursuing your degree. It is a huge mistake not to take full advantage of the information you have at your disposal. Our career webinar series are the icing on the cake that is your academic curriculum. Our webinars, tweet-chats, virtual hiring events and this newsletter, all correlate to you creating and executing an effective career strategy. In March, the analogy likened a vacation plan to a career plan. But, this month’s analogy gets a little deeper. Literally. So, let’s say you have planted a seed – even if you don’t have a green thumb, you understand that there will need to be some follow up and supportive actions on your part if you expect to see it grow. The seed is your career aspiration and your education and career plan in action are the follow up and supportive actions required to experience career growth. Planting a seed is not enough to reap a harvest. However, irrigation, providing proper light or shade, fertilizing it, pulling weeds that grow around it and understanding when to plant and when to expect a harvest are all factors that lead to a successful harvest. As you can see, timing plays a huge role in getting out what you put in to the hard work of planting a seed, cultivating it through intentional care and reaping your harvest. With that in mind – let’s examine this concept from the perspective of pursuing a Federal career.

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The picture in this article depicts lateral and incremental steps towards your long-term career goal. It is rare to wake up and walk into your dream job. For most of us, experience, skills, education, accomplishments, and references combine to position us for a new job. Obtaining your degree is one of many attributes employers will consider, including Federal employers. According to Todd Floersheim of the Office of Personnel Management, it is “very important applicants provide detailed information about their skills and accomplishments, paid or unpaid.” The question now becomes, what are you doing to build relevant skills and experience – paid or non-paid? Perhaps you have experience, but no degree. Maybe you have experience and skills in one industry, but no accomplishments or achievements that standout in the discipline you are currently pursuing. You may be very interested and passionate about working for a Federal agency but don’t know where or how to start. Do you need to gain relevant experience in emergency management and homeland security to position yourself to work for a Federal agency, such as DHS, FEMA, ICE, FBI, CIA, and other policing agencies? One of the things you can do is start volunteering or gain employment with private organizations that routinely support these agencies and their objectives to provide safe communities throughout our country. Understanding the function of these supportive organizations and their causes, as well as how they routinely collaborate with Federal agencies can help you position yourself as a “well-qualified” candidate for a Federal career. If you have no experience on your resume that will both interest and translate well in the Federal job you are seeking,

you don’t want to miss this live panel discussion. Come prepared to gain insight on how you can work with these

organizations to gain the relevant experience these Federal agencies are seeking.

Join our esteemed panelists to get more insight into how to jumpstart your legal career. Thursday, May 25, 2017 at 1 PM Eastern. Click the graphic or link below to register now.

MAY 25TH AT 1PM

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

SNHU CJ NEWS – MAY 2017 – P. 4

Freezes, Furloughs, & Feds… Oh My!

What a roller coaster year so far for the Federal Government as it transitions in leadership and long-term objectives. Someone has to do the work… why not you? Many people have given up on the idea of pursuing a Federal job due to uncertainties, but I am here to tell you – never give up! Last fall, I announced the FBI Federal Collegiate Hiring Initiative for 2017. I assisted a number of students as they prepared their resumes for the opportunity – which was specifically for new college grads. I am about to share a couple of student’s unique experiences, just in case you think – what’s the point? Both of these students were offered positions with the FBI recently, which has the toughest interview process in the world. Because of rules, I cannot share their names, but I will share their stories of persistence, perseverance and patience with hope of inspiring you to stay the course and maybe start to implement some of the strategies they did to standout!

STUDENT 1 STUDENT 2 1. Had an entry-level job in another Federal agency. 2. Meticulously worked to get her resume prepared

according to the FBI’s requirements/standards and applied for the job.

3. Completed her SF 86 form entirely – it was over 100 pages long.

4. The student had 5 languages under her belt (through her academic experiences) - this was a huge distinction for her as a candidate and set her apart from her competition.

5. 2 months after applying, she had her first interview which she felt went really well.

6. She waited patiently on pins and needles for a month after that interview in December. It was unnerving.

7. The second week of January, she decided to place a follow up call to the interviewer to find out the status of her candidacy. The interviewer assured her that she did a great job and would be notified either way by the end of February – a 6 week wait.

8. Then the HIRING FREEZE was instituted and she never heard back in February. No one had answers for her. In her mind, it was over. It was the beginning of April when her offer came through.

1. Held a Federal contractor position – through a staffing agency working inside of a Federal agency in a support role – as an assistant/receptionist. She was completing her Master’s degree. She had taken a step back to position herself for long-term growth opportunities.

2. She applied for a full-time permanent opportunity that came up at the agency where she worked as a contractor and loss the job to an external candidate. It was devastating. Her contract would be coming to an end and the person hired was now onboard and training for that job. Each day, she had to face this challenge.

3. She started applying for several jobs and had already applied for the FBI at the end of 2015. She never heard back from them and continue to work and apply for other jobs in the Federal government.

4. She went on to apply again in the fall of 2016 for the collegiate initiative and chose the option to work in an “unpopular” location to get in the door this time. This was a huge distinction for her as a candidate and set her apart from her competition. Popular locations: Washington DC/Maryland/Northern VA/ CA/TX/FL. Unpopular locations (advantage): Utah, Alaska, South Dakota, etc.

5. She received an interview request at the end of 2016 and was also disappointed by “no response due to the hiring freeze”

6. She received her offer May 2017.

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Both students had key attributes in common that made them successful:

1. They both performed undesired jobs at the Federal level: one an entry level position and the other a Federal contractor. This positioned them both to become qualified and offered them both low-level security clearance.

2. Because they were both working for the Federal government on a low-level security clearance – they were more attractive than candidates who weren’t. Granted both were in support roles, but both had established experience, skills, education, accomplishments, and references that prepared them and positioned them as stand out candidates.

3. Now they both will be a part of the most elite policing agency in the world! They will be trained and developed. They will also have the latitude to move around to various locations as they progress in their careers. In a year or two – they can transfer to the popular locations. It is easier to move around than to get in to the FBI (or any Federal agency). Keep that in mind as you apply. Undesired areas have needs and your probability of hire is greater if you are open to unpopular locations. If you don’t have at least one other language – consider adding another language or two to your variety of skills.

There were some other points I would like to share with you to inspire you to continue to pursue your dreams!

1. Keep applying if you are qualified – don’t just apply for one job. But do CUSTOMIZE your resume to the jobs you are applying for or update your USAJobs profile before applying for the next job. Both of these students worked very hard to get their resumes ready. I can assist you if needed: s.moffett@snhu.edu

2. Don’t forget about the Pathways program: right now there are various internships (paid) and student training opportunities out there. Click here to view them (and remember to be open to less desirable locations): Pathways program

3. Prepare according to that particular agency’s expectations. For example, the FBI has its own preferred resume format which differs from the “Federal format” on USA Jobs – so pay attention to detail because they also only post jobs on their agency website.

4. Go directly to an agency’s website to find jobs - as not all advertise vacancies on USAJobs. 5. Follow up! It is okay to check your status on USAJobs or make a call after you have interviewed. The government is

working to improve its responsiveness – so they have instituted a status for you with regards to the job you have applied for. Check it out by logging in to your account and viewing the status. Their goal is to fill those jobs within 120 days.

6. A hiring freeze is not a permanent indictment on Federal jobs, so apply! The process may take longer, but as you can see – it will be worth it!

If you are interested in working for the Federal government and don’t really know how to get started, be sure to attend any of the free webinars given by the Office of Personnel Management – Register for sessions below and then register for and attend SNHU Career Federal Webinar Series in June 2017 – see page 6 for details. FEDERAL RESUME WEBINARS

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 10:00 a.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 10:00 a.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 5:00 p.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 5:00 p.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

FEDERAL INTERVIEWS

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 2:00 p.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

Thursday, May 18, 2017 4:00 p.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

PATHWAYS PROGRAM

Wednesday, May 17, 2017 11:00 a.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

Wednesday, May 17, 2017 4:30 p.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

EMPLOYING THOSE WITH DISABILITIES

Thursday, May 18, 2017 11:00 a.m. (ET) Click Here To Register

SNHU CJ NEWS – MAY 2017 – P. 6

LOG ON FROM YOUR COMPUTER, PHONE OR TABLET & BE A PART OF THESE INFORMATIVE EVENTS THAT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR FEDERAL JOB SEARCH!

JUNE 2017: FEDERAL WEBINAR SERIES IS COMING TO SNHU Register Today!

FOR THE FOLLOWING FEDERAL WEBINARS TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.

VETERANS AND FEDERAL CAREERS – 6/14/2017 - 7PM EST

http://snhu.adobeconnect.com/veteranfederalcareers/event/registration.html

FEDERAL OCCUPATIONS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR – 6/21/2017 - 7PM EST

http://snhu.adobeconnect.com/fedjobsprivatesector/event/registration.html

FEDERAL PANEL DISCUSSION 1 – 6/28/2017 – 12 PM EST

http://snhu.adobeconnect.com/fedpanel1/event/registration.html

FEDERAL PANEL DISCUSSION 2 – 6/28/2017 - 7PM EST

http://snhu.adobeconnect.com/fedpanel2/event/registration.html

CAN WE TALK?

It’s a jungle out there, but you have help. If you are serious about

your job search and experiencing a little difficulty, you are not

alone. View this recorded webinar called On the Hunt and then

set up a time to speak with me one-on-one: http://bit.ly/2oBIcjT

SNHU CJ NEWS – MAY 2017 – P. 7

CJ - - FACULTY SPOTLIGHTS

One of our stellar veteran instructors is Judge Waters, who has practiced law for

over 17 years. She worked as a prosecutor for 14 years serving as both a state and

federal prosecutor. Judge Waters currently practices law as in-house counsel with

an undisclosed company. She has taught online and in class courses for several

years and is currently teaching JUS-331, Juvenile Justice Systems.

LOOKING FOR A NEW JOB? HERE ARE A FEW HOT JOBS FOR THOSE OF YOU INTERESTED.

SPECIAL AGENT:

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/northcarolina/jobs/1712878/special-

agent/apply?keywords=special%20agent&pagetype=jobOp

CPB OFFICER - U.S. CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION

https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/468664700

STATE POLICE TROOPER I – NH STATE POLICE:

http://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/nhsp/ssb/recruitment/recruitment.html#application

JUDGE WATERS SNHU INSTRUCTOR

SNHU CJ NEWS – MAY 2017 – P. 8

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)[iii]

The largest agency of all the DHS components, the Customs and Border Protection agency deals with securing and monitoring the U.S. land borders. The CBP employs over 60,000 people in roles such as border patrol agent, agriculture specialist, and customs officer. A border patrol agent may be tasked with keeping people out of the country who do not have a legal right to enter, as well as stop any dangerous objects—such as weapons—from being brought into the country.

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Department of Homeland Security HQ (DHS-HQ)[iv]

Among other responsibilities, this department contracts small businesses that do their part to achieve the many goals that allow homeland security to run as smoothly as possible. Non-federal businesses can apply to become federal contractors and perform jobs for the Department of Homeland Security, such as statistical analysis or laboratory testing.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)[v]

FEMA’s purpose is to support U.S. citizens by responding, recovering, and rebuilding when disaster strikes. FEMA employs a mix of intermittent, permanent, and on-call response/recovery employees due to the sudden nature of disasters. Permanent full-time employees are required to go through an application and interview process, as well as other required steps of federal employment. One example of a position at FEMA is a Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, who provides instruction and guidance to state and local governments in the event of a disaster.

Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC)[vi]

The FLETC is an inter-agency component of the DHS that trains federal employees in law enforcement, some of whom will go on ensure homeland security. Since it was formed in 1970, FLETC has provided training to more than 1 million agents and law enforcement officers for the United States. A Counter-Terrorism Instructor might be in charge of training individuals in the detection and prevention of terrorist activity, as well as in other elements of anti-terrorism and officer safety and survival.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)[vii]

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement component is considered the major investigative branch of the DHS. Founded in 2003, ICE is the merged result of the investigation and enforcement elements of the U.S. Customs Service and the Immigration and Naturalization Service, employing over 20,000 people with the responsibility of maintaining homeland security and public safety.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)[viii]

The Transportation Security Administration secures the nation’s transportation systems and consists of the people who screen passengers and conduct intelligence gathering and analysis on the traveling passengers. Federal air marshals, federal flight deck officers, and inspectors are some of the 50,000 positions employed by the TSA.

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)[ix]

The U.S. Coast Guard is the only component of the DHS that is also part of the U.S. military and has been guarding U.S. waters against unauthorized entrance since 1790. In 2012, the USCG employed 89,800 citizens, including 43,000 active members, 8,000 reservists, over 8,800 civilian employees, and over 30,000 volunteers. Because of the military nature of this branch, entering the field as an officer includes different regulations than many other components of the DHS.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)[x]

For anyone applying for citizenship in the U.S., the Citizenship and Immigration Service oversees that process. The USCIS’s 19,000 employees also provide information about granting citizenship, explain citizen benefits, promote understanding and awareness about the citizenship process, and strengthen the security of the immigration system.

U.S. Secret Service (USSS)[xi]

The Secret Service is charged with the task of protecting the nation’s leaders and securing the nation’s economy by safeguarding financial infrastructure and payment systems. Established in 1865, the secret service employs about 3,200 special agents, 1,300 uniformed division officers, and over 2,000 administrative, professional, and technical support personnel. Special agent positions often require extensive travel and reassignment, long hours, and possible undercover work. Source: https://www.elearners.com/online-degrees/legal-studies/homeland-security/us-department-homeland-security-criminal-justice/

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When exploring your career options, think strategically about your options. There are organizations who work collaboratively with these agencies who may need you to become a part of their team. Remember, your goal is to gain valuable experience that will qualify you for your next job! So this month, instead of Professional Associations, explore some of the organizations mentioned in this issue and see what opportunities exists for you.

As always, don’t forget that you will need more than your degree to land a job in your degree field. You will need a plan of action. In addition, you may need more specific training, certifications, and/or licensure depending on your career path or area of expertise. So be sure to research your options before you graduate! Use www.onetonline.org to conduct this vital research. Each month, we will be highlighting career paths – use this same methodology with each new month. Explore your options and start to develop a plan of action that will set you on the right course towards your future occupation.

Other action items you should consider acting on while you are a student:

Join a professional association (in person and on LinkedIn.com)

Connect with SNHU Alumni and groups on SNHU Connect.

Search for internships and jobs on SNHURecruit

Attend our free WEBINAR offerings – knowledge is power!

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All the Best to You!

Sonja Moffett, CDF | Career Advisor | SNHU Career

888.672-1458

Ext. 0679

s.moffett@snhu.edu

or contact cocecareer@snhu.edu