The FBI Pays a Visit to Security, Law & Policing

FBI employees explained their career paths, different roles in the bureau

For students studying the different roles law enforcement serves in our society, Thursday provided them with an opportunity to learn from representatives from the top Federal agency in the U.S.: The FBI.

Erik Marvin’s Security, Law & Policing class received a visit this week from three members who serve different roles in the FBI, the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The students heard from a special agent and an analyst who play active roles at the bureau and a community outreach specialist who previously had a long career as a police officer.

The visitors introduced themselves and spoke about their career paths. They also discussed how and why there are so many varied roles in the FBI, from those who perform drug busts to others who hold specific education or skills that allow them to serve on social task forces.

For example, they detailed how an expert on art history would be seen a valuable employee at the FBI.

“It’s not always like you see on TV,” said Michael Dougherty, a Community Outreach Specialist who often speaks with students. “I encourage you to study what you love, study what you’ll be good at. We’re looking for the best of the best.”

Curious students asked a number of questions, including how each person came to the FBI and what were the biggest or most nerve-wracking cases they had been involved with throughout their careers.

The FBI visit was one of several discussions Marvin holds with members of various law enforcement agencies. In fact, a day after the FBI visit, members of the Greenburgh Police Department dropped by with a K-9 dog.

“I’m so grateful that the FBI came to see us because the FBI is the top law enforcement agency in the U.S. and can offer a different perspective for the students,” Marvin said. “It’s a great experience for them when we can bring people in who can show them that there are so many different roles within law enforcement they may interest them.”