University of Findlay Welcomes Secret Service Agents to Campus

United States Secret Service agents provided a hand-on learning opportunity for University of Findlay students and information for those considering a career in the Secret Service. In total, 40 students (UF softball players and high school commits) took part in six scenarios, serving as agents operating protection details.

Adam Daniels serves as the Resident Agent in Charge (RAIC) for the Toledo resident office for the Secret Service and says events like this allow them to open the eyes of students who may have never considered a career in the Secret Service. “Traditionally, we use career fairs and stand in front of students and talk to them about the Secret Service. We’re trying something new and we’re working with college athletes. Athletes already know what it’s like to belong to a team; they have that innate drive to be the best; and they are used to working in an environment where they rely on each other, but still have their own roles,” Daniels said.

UF Head Softball Coach, Danielle Lowe was thankful for the opportunity to have her players take part in such an event, calling it a “wonderful opportunity.” Her players were left in the dark about the experience, allowing them to be surprised with the hands-on learning experience. Bailey Bates is pursuing a master’s degree in human resources development at Findlay, and said she appreciated the hands-on approach, as it kept everyone “highly engaged.” After the event, Bates said she is interested in exploring career options, “I have been struggling with finding a future career that fits best for me. After this experience, my interest has been sparked and I look forward to doing more research and seeing if this is the direction that I want to take my career. I think this career might have a potential in my future,” Bates said.

Fellow teammate Addison Bender is finishing up her sophomore year as a nursing student at UF. Bender described the experience as unique, but also eye-opening. “From this experience, I took away that you should never close off your options because I never would have thought working for the Secret Service is something I would be able to do. After this experience though, they made it very clear that anyone is capable of applying.” Bates echoed that message, stating, “It doesn’t matter what major you have or had, it matters who you are as a person and how you excel in all situations.”

Bender, Bates, and their teammates took turns acting as Secret Service agents, protecting their head coach from people (role-playing teammates, softball commits, and parents) who were trying to take selfies and interfere with the event scenarios. The scenarios took place throughout campus, and included anything from fans wanting selfies, to a pretend active shooter situation. “What we’re trying to do with these scenarios is give students a realistic impression of what it’s like being a Secret Service agent,” said Daniels.

Daniels stressed that all students actively pursuing degrees are welcome, stating it doesn’t have to be criminal justice and political science majors. “We are hiring people that are getting ready to graduate from their degree program. If they apply to the Secret Service their senior year, by the time they walk for their degrees, they’ll have a job waiting for them,” said Daniels. The proactive and hands-on approach is not only taking place locally, as offices from all over the country are hosting similar events. Daniels has held similar events with other local universities, working with various athletic teams.

For more information on the University of Findlay, including academic majors and athletics, please visit the website.

Post Views: 539