Cutting hair for QAP.

[Future Officer Vasques]

Hey everybody. I have a question regarding long hair during the hiring process. I have been growing my hair out for approximately 4 years now and although I am very confident about passing my tests and entering the academy I would like to hang on to my hair in case I am dq'd at some point. My question is, will the panel look down on me for being a "long hair"?

I am more than willing to do whatever it takes to make it through; so if it's gotta go, it's gotta go...

[uoplax13]

One of the officers will have a better answer for you probably, but I remember hearing something along the lines of not only being evaluated at the QAP for what you say and what's on your resume, but also on how you present yourself. It really might just depend on how long your hair is. Do you think that your interviewers could picture you in a uniform while you're sitting across from them?

[Future Officer Vasques]

Thanks for the reply uoplax13. My hair is long enough to put in a ponytail and have it run about a quarter of the way down my back. If I wrap my hair up into a knot the panel will only have to look at it as I close the door when I enter and open it when I leave. I am hoping my hair will not overshadow my pretty smile and rugged good looks:rolleyes: along with my qualifications of course.

[alec]

Cut it.

Thank me later.

[Flying Pig]

Every step in the process, regardless of department, is an interview.

[TheForceCHP]

as it was told to me, though i don't have long hair, you want to show them what you will look like as an officer. that means cutting the hair and shaving. i understand why you don't want to do this, but it is a choice that you either will or will not make. good luck

[Mac]

A QAP is essentially a "job interview". As with any job interview, you're being evaluated for your potential as an employee - and part of that is your overall appearance.

I remember a guy from my QAPs that showed up in very casual dress, with long hair and a beard. That was the last I ever saw of him.

[Future Officer Vasques]

Thank you for the replies everybody. My written examination is scheduled for Saturday morning in Vallejo. PAT on June 10th followed by written psych. June 11th. Looks like the clippers are comin out!

[junebughunter]

I had a similar question, at what point is it neccisary to cut my hair. I've been growing mine for two years. See for yourself

http://www.junebughunter.net/images/tyler-love-bum.JPG

I will probably take the test and cut it the Friday before I go in for the pat, psych and QAP

To be honest I look nothing like an officer should. But I keep telling myself...this is the last chance i have in my life to grow my hair and a beard...

[SB 405]

Ya kinda have the Frank Serpico look going on. You look like you would clean up okay.... post the "after" pic.

[K-Lo]

There was a guy at the PAT I attended that had long hair. The officers that were running the PAT gave him a little bit of extra attention. They asked him if he was an undercover officer working a vehicle theft taskforce.

Not to say that will happen to you too but if you want this job you might want to start looking the part. Short hair, clean shaven, plain workout clothes for the PAT and suit & tie at interviews.

Good luck in the process.

[Mac]

...The officers that were running the PAT gave him a little bit of extra attention...
"Extra attention" may be a great thing in a restaurant or while you're out clubbing, but it's NEVER a Good Thing on this job - from the time you apply until the day you retire! :shock:

[junebughunter]

Yeah I know, like I said I'll cut it before any of the tests, except the written since from what I've heard it is a pretty casual/informal

[Flying Pig]

Its nice to see where your priorities are. When I took the written, CHP and my current agency....the VAST majority of people were either in suits or shirts and ties. It still surprises me when people ask...."should I cut my hair and shave my beard? Should I take out my nose ring" C'mon!

If you want long hair and a beard....work dope when you get some time on.

[MicahJames]

There was a guy who came to the PAT with a huge beard. He did mention he would shave it off before thye QAP if he made it that far. However, my friend who has been in law enforcement for 30 years now, said the interview begins the second you show up for your very first test. Might not be a good idea to wait, it shows that maybe you are expecting things to not fall through. Just my .02. :shock: