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Vault Message Board: Central Intelligence Agency

Topic Name: DO Candidates
Message Name: JD value
Date Posted: 02/07/2006
In Reply To: Govnut - I was just wondering if anyone from CIA discussed with you the perceived value (practical, not monetary) of a J.D./bar certification in the DO? I have a J.D. but am going DI and got the impression my new boss could care less. Of course, I have previous experience in intel which probably trumped my academic/legal qualifications. Anyway, I'm just curious because while I understand why the FBI would be interested in agent and analyst candidates with law degrees, I can't imagine one being of much use at the CIA outside the General Counsel's office ...
Message: Throughout my interviews, when asked why I would be an asset to the DO, my answer revolved around the idea that a lawyer, with appropriate training, has a natural ability to be a problem solver, persuasive, analytical, etc. For those of you aiming to be an OO, I think the qualifications are obvious. They want someone who can manipulate others. During one of my interviews I was asked about manipulation and I responded by saying that yes, I have manipulated others before. Anytime you write a legal brief, speak in front of a judge or jury, or even enter negotiations with another party, you put your manipulation skills to the test. You want to convince the judge, for example, that your position on a case is the right one. Thefore, you use and manipulate the given facts to your favor and play on emotions. If you ask me, the whole agent recruitment cycle mirrors this situation. Therefore, I think that someone with these abilities have a good chance of exceling as an OO. This is just my two cents...but when I responded with this type of reasoning during my interviews, my interviewer seemed impressed with my answer. Just a thought...

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