U.S. Border Patrol elected not to attend the Chico State career fair held on March 27 due to conversations with Chico State staff.
An announcement was sent out by President Steve Perez on March 6 to students and staff so that the campus community would be aware of USBP’s presence.
Following that announcement, the Dream Center provided students with resources to help them prepare for any discomfort that may be caused by the event.
However, on the day of the event, USBP’s name was removed from the career fair map and they were consequently not in attendance.
There were concerns that Border Patrol presence would make students feel uneasy, U.S. Border Patrol agent Jason White said.
“We are reluctant to make any situation about us, or draw any attention away from the event in which many Chico State University staff members spent time and effort to arrange,” White said.
Border Patrol’s interest in the fair was to recruit a variety of well-rounded and diverse applicants. Chico State is an institution that services a diverse student body that fit the target demographic of professionals USBP is looking to hire, White said.
Students interested in a border patrol position are encouraged to apply by contacting a USBP recruiter with any questions or by using the USBP website.
USBP welcomes students of all fields and majors to apply for a position.
“Any student who is looking for a rewarding and adventurous career, excited about being outdoors, and looking to enforce federal narcotics, terrorism, immigration, and human smuggling/human trafficking violations should consider applying to become a U.S. Border Patrol Agent,” White said.
Additionally, Border Patrol agents inspect agricultural items to ensure they are free from pests and foreign animal diseases.
In order to become a Border Patrol agent, applicants must fit the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Have a valid, non-restricted driver’s license
- Have resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years
- Be eligible to carry a firearm
- Be referred for selection before turning 40 or receive an exception for veteran’s preference eligibility or previous service in a civilian law enforcement position
- Be willing to travel
- Pass the application process which includes a medical examination, physical fitness test, polygraph exam, drug test, a structured interview, entrance exam and background investigation
USBP operates in all 50 states at 328 ports of entry. More information about the process, pay, and benefits can be found here.
Coverage of past Border Patrol presence
Jessica Miller can be reached at [email protected].
