Tennessee State University recently hosted the FBI Collegiate Academy for the second consecutive year, offering students an exclusive opportunity to gain insight into federal careers and agency operations.
Nearly 40 students from various disciplines participated in the academy. Students engaged in an immersive experience that covered essential FBI functions, including crime scene investigation, intelligence analysis, crisis negotiation, cyber and digital forensics, community awareness, and crisis management. The program culminated in workshops focused on resume-building and interview techniques, led by FBI experts. Each participant received a certificate of completion in recognition of their involvement.
Since its inception in 2022, TSU has made history as Tennessee’s first institution to host the FBI Collegiate Academy. It highlights the dedicated partnership with the Bureau aimed at connecting students with career pathways in federal law enforcement.
Making An Impact
Kolby Jones, a criminal justice sophomore from Maryland, spoke about the value of the academy in fostering career readiness. “I can use my skill set, apply it, and excel,” said Jones, who aspires to join the SWAT team after graduation. “These new influences and partnerships are creating even more opportunities for HBCU students.”
The academy kicked off with welcoming remarks from Dr. Rodney Stanley, interim dean of the College of Public Service; Dr. Robbie K. Melton, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs; Dr. Kimberly Triplett, professor and coordinator of the Public Service Program; and Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI’s Tennessee office and Public Affairs Officer Elizabeth Clement Webb also addressed students.
Dr. Stanley highlighted the academy’s significance. “This program provides an invaluable chance for students interested in law enforcement careers to engage directly with active FBI agents who will be leading the sessions,” Stanley said.
He added that the FBI is keen to recruit graduates from diverse fields due to the increasing complexities associated with cybercrime, bioterrorism, money laundering, and other modern challenges. The current cohort demonstrated how majors such as urban studies, computer science, biology, and accounting play vital roles in combating crime today.
The FBI Collegiate Academy at TSU provided students with hands-on experiences, including interactive crime scene investigations and presentations from Crisis Negotiation and SWAT team members.
Interested candidates can find current job openings listed on the FBI’s official website.