October 03, 2006 Laurel, Maryland

The headlines say it all – the technology used by the FBI is severely antiquated, and that’s why the bureau needs students just like those graduating from Capitol College, said an FBI special agent at Capitol’s annual Career Day.

During the hour-long presentation on Sept. 26, FBI Supervisory Special Agent David Musgrove told students that to continue fighting terrorism, crime and other wrongdoings, the Federal Bureau of Investigation direly needs a range of professionals. Musgrove explained several career options, including the training and work of special agents, and emphasized the need for information technology professionals.

“I’m sure a lot of people here have read about how bad our computer systems are,” Musgrove said. “They are a disaster, and we need people such as yourselves who can fix these systems. We need good people to come in and build databases so we can better share information.”

Musgrove, who works in the cyber crime unit in Baltimore, explained his start with the bureau. He knew he always wanted to be an agent, but he majored in accounting in case he didn’t make the cut into the very competitive FBI Academy.  Law enforcement and criminal justice are two obvious college majors, but today’s FBI needs a force with diverse skills and specialized backgrounds, he said.

“We have agents who don’t have .gov email addresses. We have agents using Gmail,” Musgrove said. “How secure is that? Even my (government) email was compromised one time. Not everyone even has the Internet at their desks.”

Following his remarks on the needs of the bureau and the demands of getting in, Musgrove answered questions from several students and faculty members.

Along with the keynote address, students attended various sessions designed to help them establish their careers. All students had a chance to learn more about security clearances and how to obtain them. First-year students discussed the basics of maximizing career options, and returning students heard about internship programs with the federal government.

Seniors attended a special networking and etiquette lunch. During the catered luncheon, they received advice and tips from Michelle Pollard Patrick, director of National Protocol. Patrick, a consultant on professional social etiquette, demonstrated several techniques for successful networking and interviewing while dining.

Students learned and practiced the basics, such as the proper handshake and small talk, as well the more challenging situations, such as how to hold a glass and plate while at a buffet line.

The first Career Day was held in 1998 as part of the job guarantee program offered by the college. As with previous years, classes were cancelled.  Attendance at Career Day has been mandatory for all new and returning students participating in the Capitol Commitment.