Students gather intelligence about career opportunities with the FBI

Last Thursday, students at the University of Northern Iowa discovered that the Federal Bureau of Investigation was more than men in dark suits and sunglasses rappelling down the sides of buildings. Agents Craig Tomlinson and Randy Laughead gave an inside look at what being in the FBI is all about as part of a presentation offered by Career Services in Gilchrist Hall.

Tomlinson and Laughead have been in the FBI for 15 years and both noted the worst part of their job is the paperwork. Aside from that, Tomlinson enjoys the latitude that comes with being an agent.

"My favorite part of my job is the responsibility and independence I get," said Tomlinson, a field agent who deals more with the investigation side of the bureau. "It's the real freedom to make my own choices."

Laughead, an intelligence analyst, said the best part of his job is "the versatility and variety of tasks the FBI allows him."

Students interested in pursuing a career with the FBI were excited to receive more information about the career.

Taylor Lewis, a junior criminology and sociology major, said she was glad Career Services held the event.

"I really enjoyed the general information they were able to share as well as the insight and tips towards pursuing a career in the FBI," said Lewis.

Alexis Smutzler, a junior criminology major, was brought up in an environment of criminal justice and her father is currently pursuing a career in the FBI.

"I can't wait to pursue my own career with the FBI and I'm glad I was able to gather more information at this event," said Smutzler.