Little Miss Cadet

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a job that could somehow make someones life better. Right now, I plan on becoming a cop.

Since I am only 16, I can’t exactly join the academy. In my community, being a cadet at the fire station is a pretty big deal: especially when you’re a girl.

At first, I didn’t want much to do with it. After all, I want to be a cop, not a firefighter. Then, my friend and I decided we were going to join, even though we would be on different departments. So, one day I went to the fire department and filled out an application.

When the training officer handed the chief my form and said “Hey chief, we have a new cadet”, he stared blankly at me and said “well, where is he?”. My first thought? Oh great!

But instead I just smiled and said “Here I am!”

I’ve gotten A TON of weird glances and questions like “ummm…what are you doing here?”, “are you even old enough to be here?” and “if you want to be a cop, why are you in the fire station?” The guys have all gotten used to me, and the few women (there are a few on the department, but I’m the only girl cadet) that are there think it’s nice having a girl around.

The only downside? I’m 5 feet tall and 96 lbs. again, brings up “why are you here?”.

My answer? I want to make a difference in peoples lives, and if I can help one person, then that’s one person’s life that I made a difference in.

I’m not afraid of being “one of the guys” and actually embrace it. Even some of my friends didn’t approve of me joining. But all that meant was that I needed to make a decision based on what I knew I wanted to do, not their opinions.

Just because its a male dominated field and not everyone had my back doesn’t mean I should run in the other direction… means I took a deep breath and went for it… and I’m not turning back :) I am as happy as ever and wouldn’t want it any other way!

3 comments

  • Kimberly Ferguson

    way to go!!!!! i am an explorer in my local community and i have alot of fun doing it feel free to shoot me an email at tatertot_2011@yahoo.com

  • Christine

    Haley,
    Good for you girl!!! I joined the first aid squad in my town to get experience. I too wanted to be a police officer since I was a little girl. Now I am the first female K9 officer in my Sheriff’s Dept. A P.T. Instructor told, “you can do anything, as long as you put your mind to it!!” Work hard and get as much experience as you can. If you know your job and do it well, people (including the men) will respect you!!

  • A

    Haley – that’s a very interesting approach and a very smart move on your part. You’re going to get great training with the fire department in an area that will benefit you as a police officer. Way to go!

Have you ever been told you can't because you're a girl?

This is one of many reader entries designed to encourage and inspire other women to rise to the challenge and follow their dreams. Have you ever been told you can't because you're a girl? Share your story!

cowgirl

Sign up to receive inspiration and special offers on Girls Can't WHAT? gifts. It's Free!

Please enter your name.
Please enter a valid email address.
Something went wrong. Please check your entries and try again.