University, U.S. Secret Service Pilot Unique Recruitment Program for Chargers

When Bridget Murphy ’23 attended a meeting of the University’s American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA) chapter in March, she first learned about the Special Agent Talent & Achievement Recruitment (STAR) Program, an opportunity that could open doors for students such as herself to work for the U.S. Secret Service. Murphy was intrigued.

A forensic science major, Murphy didn’t immediately think a program that could help streamline the process of applying for the agency was for her. But when she learned the U.S. Secret Service was interested in connecting with students of diverse majors and backgrounds, she wanted to learn more. Murphy says she’s always had a desire to help and protect others, and she enjoys working as part of a team toward a shared goal, qualities that the agency is looking for. When she learned they were interested in connecting with students with a variety of backgrounds and majors, and she believed it would be a “great fit.”

Murphy applied, filling out an application with her resume and transcript and answering a few questions. The process also involved taking a written exam and a physical test. She describes the process as “seamless.” She says that for students – in particular, women and student-athletes, such as herself – this is a remarkable opportunity.

“As I am soon to be graduating from the University, I think it's very important that major organizations such as the Secret Service attend our school and promote hiring processes such as this one,” said Murphy, a member of the Chargers cross country and track and field teams. “This helps us as students strive to meet our goals. I know a ton of students – myself included – always dream of working for the FBI, CIA, and Secret Service and never actually think they can make it. But processes such as this one really can inspire us to get the most out of our education and believe in ourselves.”

‘Fantastic opportunity’

Through the STAR Program, recruiters educate students about the career opportunities at the agency, as well as the application process. Recruiters were recently on campus meeting with students, connecting with them during meetings of recognized student organizations and speaking to classes.

“The United States Secret Service is known for protecting the President and his family, but they do so much more for our country,” said Marcus Paca, MBA, assistant director of employer relations for the University’s Career Development Center. “I am so excited to be a part of their recruiting efforts at the University. The STAR pilot program has been specially designed to truncate a normally lengthy employment process. Because of our university’s strong connections, we can provide our students with an opportunity to be vetted and hired by the storied organization and be offered conditional employment before summertime. I hope our students recognize and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.”

‘Shoot for the stars’

The University has strong connections to the U.S. Secret Service. Special Agent Justin Hanson, who has been with the agency for more than two decades, is an adjunct faculty member. He connected with students and offered information about the application process and the agency as part of the recruitment.

Robert McDonald ’86, ’95 M.S., a criminal justice lecturer at the University and a retired supervisory special agent with the U.S. Secret Service, helped facilitate the program. A proud two-time graduate of the University, he says his time as a student prepared him well for his two decades with the Secret Service and six years with the United States Probation Office. He has been eager to offer his in-depth understanding of the U.S. Secret Service.

“I have tried to help facilitate this recruitment program by being available as a liaison,” he said. “The fact that students have an opportunity to graduate from our university and, shortly thereafter, be in the pipeline for a federal law enforcement career is fantastic, and I want to be able to assist our students in that career journey. I could not be happier to have returned to where I got my start, and to now have a chance to help the leaders of the future in this field prepare for their careers.”

Kyle Tavares ’23 says the STAR Program was “the best thing the University has offered” during his time as a student. He says the opportunity to meet with recruiters and hear their stories has encouraged him and inspired him. He, too, has started the application process, and he’s grateful to have the opportunity to apply for a career with the U.S. Secret Service.

“This opportunity has opened doors for students, encouraging us to shoot for the stars,” he said. “It is an amazing process, and I am so glad I was given this opportunity. Landing a job with them would not only be the best achievement possible, but one that I could surprise my parents with, as I purposely kept them out of this whole process.”

‘The confidence to serve and protect my country’

Recruiters connected with undergraduate and graduate students across the University. They also met with students virtually – including many who are studying abroad at the University’s campus in Prato, Italy. This semester’s cohort in Italy includes a large group of criminal justice majors.

“The routine successes of the U.S. Secret Service as both the nation’s premier protection service and highly adept criminal investigative agency depend on the talent and dedication of our future recruits,” said U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Freaney. “As we seek to identify potential future special agents with exceptional motivation, commitment, and skill, it is our responsibility to pave the way to most efficiently select, onboard, and welcome those individuals. We are grateful for our special partnership with the University of New Haven that allows us this unique opportunity, and I look forward to meeting the next generation of the U.S. Secret Service.”

The first-of-its-kind program is open to students of all majors. Seniors and student-athletes – such as Murphy – have been given special consideration during the recruitment process. Murphy is grateful for this opportunity, and she’s eager to bring her passion for service to her career.

“My career goals definitely revolve around helping others,” she said. “I grew up in a family that was always full of first responders – specifically, law enforcement and firefighters – and I have always admired their dedication and loyalty to their work. My career goals are to support and assist others in my everyday line of work. This possible opportunity with the U.S. Secret Service will help support me by giving me the confidence to serve and protect my country and all of its assets.”