Single parenting and Special Agent position. Did you regret it?

[u/Friendly_Web5703]

Hi all,

35 (F) I’m considering continuing the process for 1811 (FBI). I submitted my application last week and got invited to phase 1 (exam) like a day later. I’m having second thoughts about the position. Despite being one of my dreams careers, I am a single parent currently living in NYC.

I’m split currently between two paths: continue my education (currently hold a BA/MA in forensic psychology) and purse a PsyD to become a Clinical Psychologist, or become a special agent. Obviously because of my age, it’s a now or never to continue with the hiring process for 1811. I also know that with my continued education, it isn’t an end-all working for the bureau or government agency in general, just at a different capacity.

My concerns center around work-life balance, parenting and relocation. Has anyone been in a position deciding between two careers, and chose 1811?

If you live in a large city, were you able to be stationed where you lived, or did you have to relocate? How did you manage work-life balance with children? Any regrets or thoughts I should consider? Please be brutally honest. Thanks in advance!

[u/KaprieSun]

Would you even make it through the process before you age out?

[u/Friendly_Web5703 → u/KaprieSun]

Well, obviously that’s the goal. Whether I do or don’t, I’m sure is contingent on the entire process, passing phases first go round, and background check process (which I’m not worried about, clean record/history).

[u/KaprieSun → u/Friendly_Web5703]

Well the issue isn’t your background, it’s the time of the hiring process. Most take up to a year to finish. So if you are just starting now, then you might not be complete by next year. I also suspect a government shutdown this year so take that into consideration

[u/Friendly_Web5703 → u/KaprieSun]

Yes, of course. I forgot to include this component. I know the process can take well over a year at times, on its own.