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Intelligence Officers

Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits

For those interested in pursuing an intelligence career, both the FBI and the CIA offer internship programs that will provide an excellent introduction to the field. Additionally, any experience in law enforcement, the military, or in entry-level intelligence positions will be useful for aspiring intelligence officers.

Intelligence officers should be of high moral character. Strong patriotism, discipline, and discretion are also essential. Because many officers are stationed abroad, they need to have the ability to adapt to changing living conditions and customs. Depending on the position, they must be strong analysts of data. It is essential that they be aware of current events and alert to all that is going on in the world. For those officers who embark on dangerous assignments, a cool head and a strong will serve them well.

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