Internship and Ride-a-Long Programs

The Police Department offers a student internship program to high school and college students, who are interested in a possible career in law enforcement, a rewarding and insightful experience by providing an educational program working in various divisions within the South Elgin Police Department. The student intern will be given the opportunity to learn and observe general law enforcement methods and the procedures of the South Elgin Police Department. The intern will work with experienced police officers, and other non-sworn employees to further his/her opportunities for a career in law enforcement.

Interns will receive no monetary payment for participation. The internship program is designed for the intern to rotate to the various divisions and programs within the department.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Interns under the age of 18 must receive parent/guardian permission.
  • Must be currently enrolled in a college/university criminal justice or related program or high school internship program with the student interested in law enforcement.
  • Must be considered a junior or senior at the college/university or high school.
  • Must be recommended by his/her instructor or staff member of that respective educational institution.
  • Must successfully pass an application and background check performed by the South Elgin Police Department.
  • Must be willing to complete all waiver requests.
  • Must agree to abide with all program requirements and rules.
  • Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.

APPLICATION

  • Prospective student interns who apply for the program must have an academic referral by a professor or advisor from an accredited criminal justice program or criminal justice department of a college or university or high school teacher/advisor.
  • Prospective student interns will submit a request for consideration through their college/university or high school along with a South Elgin Police Department Internship Application.
  • The Police Department will conduct a detailed review and evaluation of each application to determine if the applicant meets the minimum recommended requirements for the position.
  • An oral interview will be conducted with members of the Police Department to evaluate the applicant’s overall fitness for the position, including professional appearance, self-expression, mental alertness, and suitability for internship duties as well as the applicant’s educational record and interest level in a law enforcement career.

Have additional questions or need more information about the South Elgin Police Department Internship Program or Citizen Ride-a-Long Program? Contact Deputy Chief Brett Czechowski (bczechowski@southelgin.com or 224-629-5343).