A question about my immediate past, will this negatively affect me?

[Triad]

I have been working in Corrections for about a year before l seperated from the state (mostly because I don't believe this type of Law Enforcement will ever truely make me happy) and tried to get on with a local law enforcement agency. I didn't really prepare myself physically at all for the academy and decided (a decision I regret every day) to quit.

I know I want to work in enforcement, make a career out of it. I realize in quitting that academy I made a horrible mistake. I am 24 years old and the prospect of relocation is actually appealing to me at this moment in my life. If I apply for the CHP will this part of my life hold me back? Is there a second chance for me?

Thank you.

[dw]

I have been working in Corrections for about a year before l seperated from the state (mostly because I don't believe this type of Law Enforcement will ever truely make me happy) and tried to get on with a local law enforcement agency. I didn't really prepare myself physically at all for the academy and decided (a decision I regret every day) to quit.

I know I want to work in enforcement, make a career out of it. I realize in quitting that academy I made a horrible mistake. I am 24 years old and the prospect of relocation is actually appealing to me at this moment in my life. If I apply for the CHP will this part of my life hold me back? Is there a second chance for me?

Thank you.

Triad, is the situation you described an immediate disqualification? Absolutely not. You will have to explain your choice to the QAP and tell them why we should give you a chance. You mentioned not being physically prepared. Being in good physical shape and having a good workout program to prepare for the Academy is something you want to have accomplished at the time of your QAP, so they can see you're serious about the job. Otherwise, just like anyone else, use the time to sell yourself and be completely honest about your past. Do everything you can ahead of time to turn that negative into a positive.

Good luck.

[Triad]

Oh thank goodness.

I have been trying to look at this with a positive perspective but I have also feared that I have forever "damned" myself for making a mistake.
I know in my heart I am fully capable of being a professional law enforcement officer, and I do have a workout plan set up for myself right now with goals I want to reach.

Thank you dw for responding to my message.