During my internship with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, I hope to gain hands-on experience and knowledge of the day-to-day life working in law enforcement. I have decided that I want to work in law enforcement; however, there are so many different areas, sectors, and levels that I can choose from. I know I want to be a police officer; however, I am unsure whether federal, state, or local law enforcement would be the best fit for me. Growing up in Sussex County, I was thrilled to have been offered an internship with the Sheriff’s Office. This internship will allow me the opportunity to explore a different side of law enforcement, compared to a traditional police department, and specifically see if the work of the Sheriff’s Office is something that I could imagine myself doing. Through this internship, I will also have the opportunity to work in each department of the office, including patrol, K9, home detention, investigations, emergency management, and fire marshal. Getting first-hand experience with these divisions will give me a well-rounded understanding of how a law enforcement agency operates. Observing the unique skills required for each role will help me identify where my own strengths and interests lie and see what best suits me. The possibilities are endless in law enforcement, and this internship will impact my career path by helping me to narrow down that scope. It will provide me the chance to see what the job and lifestyle are like working for a smaller, more local Sheriff’s office and allow me the chance to explore various departments to see what fits me best. Ultimately, this experience will serve as the foundation for my future career decisions, transforming my broad passion for public service into a more specific career plan. By the time I complete this internship, I expect to have the clarity and confidence needed to make a thoughtful and informed decision on what law enforcement career would suit me best.
– Hannah Horn, Cybercrime & Homeland Security 2027
Hannah, it sounds like you have an incredible opportunity with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office this summer. I think it’s great that you’ll be able to rotate through several different divisions, including patrol, investigations, K9, and emergency management. Having exposure to so many areas of law enforcement will give you a much better understanding of the profession and help you determine which path best aligns with your interests and career goals.
I especially like how you mentioned wanting to learn about the differences between local, state, and federal law enforcement. That perspective will be incredibly valuable as you begin making decisions about your future career.
I wish you the best of luck throughout your internship and hope it provides the clarity and confidence you’re looking for as you continue pursuing a career in law enforcement!
This sounds like an incredible opportunity to explore the many facets of law enforcement. I think rotating through different divisions will give you valuable insight into the skills, responsibilities, and challenges of each area. It’s great that you’re using this experience to determine which path best aligns with your interests and strengths. Best of luck with your interns
This seems to be a great experience within law enforcement! I’m glad that this experience is helpful for your decision on your future career and can act as support towards your passion! This exposure is very inspiring!
I’m so glad you have the unique opportunity to explore all of the different departments within the Sheriff’s Office! Internships provide a wonderful pathway to identify your skills and interests in a very real way. I’m excited for you!
Very exciting you’ll get to have experience with all these areas/departments within law enforcement!