Make sure that you set clear guidelines for what you want to achieve and experience through your internship. Also, define what you are allowed to do as an intern because there are issues of safety and confidentiality within this program. In order to get the best experience, you should advocate for yourself and what goals you want to meet for the program. If you do not reach out to different supervisors and branches within the department, you may be missing out on interesting and helpful opportunities. Make sure you maintain effective and professional communication with your supervisor and other branches that you may be interested in.
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collegiate intern
May 2019 • Washington, DC
What I liked
I like that I was able to learn about many different departments within the MPD as well the people I met during this internship
What I wish was different
The only difference I would change is that I wish it would’ve start earlier in the summer so I had more time to explore the rest of the departments
Advice
I think it is important for everyone to be their own advocate, Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask. You never know what you will get. The internships are for you to gain experience and it is important to do everything in your power to obtain a meaningful experience.
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Summer Intern
May - August 2018 • Washington, DC
What I liked
It was very informative. I was able to shadow multiple detectives on cases and help review surveillance videos. I learned a lot about the department and about policing.
What I wish was different
There was a lot of downtime with my particular placement in the program. I was assigned to the homicide division so if there wasn't a body I wasn't doing much.
Advice
Talk to as many officers and detectives as you can! I waited too long to go out of my way and ask detectives if they needed me for anything. Most of the officers are very nice but they are all very busy. They commonly don't like to go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and important. To be fair though they are trying to catch murders.
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Intern
June - August 2018 • Washington, DC
What I liked
I got to learn a lot about the DC Police Department and how they run. It was an incredible experience, and it has given me many connections. This internship made me consider possibly applying to this department.
What I wish was different
Advice
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District Detective Aide
June 2018 • Washington, DC
What I liked
It was a busy internship with a lot of variety and invaluable experiences!
What I wish was different
They require a lot of hours for an internship during the school year!
Advice
You have to trust your judgement and throw yourself into the work you have- don't be afraid to take small risks!
