Cadets Get a Look Inside the FBI

Forget the Television Dramas: Fishburne Cadets Learn What It Really Takes to be an FBI Agent

Waynesboro, VA — Expert marksman? Super athlete? Super genius? While these attributes might come in handy as an FBI agent, they are not what will get you hired, and they are not necessarily what makes a good agent. So what does it take? Fidelity. Bravery. Integrity. Oh, and don’t even think about lying on that polygraph!

According to retired agent Joseph Palermo, a 25-year FBI veteran who specialized in counterterrorism, violent crimes and organized crime, what the FBI wants most is people they can train and people they can trust. Mr. Palermo, grandfather of Fishburne cadet Robert Palermo (Natural Bridge, VA), took time on Wednesday to speak with the Fishburne corps about careers with FBI.

Palermo noted that while many agents come with military and law enforcement experience, this is not a requirement. For instance, Mr. Palermo was a science teacher who majored in biology and chemistry before moving to the FBI. He encouraged cadets to pursue majors and careers that meet their interests and talents prior to applying for an FBI job. In fact, the FBI requires its applicants to be at least 23 years old and be an accountant, a lawyer, or have at least three years of professional experience in another field.

Palermo pointed out that many of the characteristics the FBI is looking for are values instilled in cadets at Fishburne. By being at Fishburne “you are already above the norm,” he noted. He also reminded cadets that when approaching the FBI—or any other organization—for a job, it is important to present yourself well and “be proud of what you do.”

Cadets asked many questions and a few stayed long after the presentation to pepper Mr. Palermo with additional inquiries about life as an FBI agent. While becoming an agent is not easy—the FBI takes 800 agents per year out of 30,000 applications—many cadets were very interested in learning more about what it takes to serve their country in this capacity. Fishburne thanks Mr. Palermo for his service and for the time and attention he gave to our corps today.

Throughout the academic year, Fishburne Military School invites speakers to discuss their occupations with interested Cadets and provide insight into what it takes to break into particular career fields. Each spring, the Headmaster also hosts a formal Career Fair with round-table discussions and presentations made to groups of Cadets interested in particular fields. Recent speakers have educated the Corps about careers in Computer Analysis, Law, Business Finance, Forestry/Agriculture, Journalism, Health Sciences, Physical Therapy, Entrepreneurialism, Sports Management, Military Service, City Planning and Government, as well as Law Enforcement.

Fishburne welcomes guest speakers who can introduce our cadets to various careers. If you, a family member or a friend is interested in being on our speakers list, please contact COL Gary Morrison at 540-946-7700.

Fishburne Military School is the oldest and smallest of all military schools for boys in Virginia. Its college-prep curriculum is built upon the structure of an Army JROTC program. Boasting a 100% college-acceptance rate for the past 10 consecutive years, FMS has also been designated as a JROTC Honor Unit with Distinction and may nominate qualified candidates to the United States Service Academics. Fishburne hosts one of only four Summer JROTC programs in the nation, accredited by US Army Cadet Command.