PULASKI, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Southern hosted the FBI Nashville Field Office’s Collegiate Academy on April 10, providing students with a firsthand look at careers in federal law enforcement and national security. The daylong program brought together FBI leadership, agents and professional staff for an immersive experience focused on the bureau’s mission, operations and career pathways.
The event began with welcome remarks from UT Southern and FBI representatives, including Special Agent in Charge Terence Reilly and Public Affairs Officer Elizabeth Clement-Webb. Throughout the day, students engaged with FBI personnel across a range of specialties, gaining insight into the bureau’s work at both the national and community levels. Sessions covered topics including the FBI’s history and mission, crime scene investigations, cyber threats and intelligence operations. Participants also heard directly from agents and staff during a panel discussion focused on career journeys and pathways into the FBI.
“By bringing the academy to our campus, we are not just teaching criminal justice or homeland security; we are investing in the next generation of leaders,” said Dr. Richard Schoeberl, program chair in the School of Social Sciences. “We are giving students the tools to network, the confidence to apply and the insight to understand that their unique backgrounds — whether in criminal justice, business or computer science — are exactly what the future of federal service requires.”
Additional programming included an overview of internships and employment opportunities, along with guidance on resume development and interview preparation. The day concluded with a presentation on specialty teams, including crisis negotiation, crisis management and SWAT operations, followed by a certificate presentation and closing remarks. The Collegiate Academy is designed to strengthen connections between the FBI and college students while increasing awareness of career opportunities in federal service.
By hosting the program, UT Southern continues to expand opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals and explore career pathways aligned with workforce needs at the local, state and national levels.
