Today is the day we've put all our academic training into one big ball and test everything we've learned within the past 15 weeks. Yes that's right, today was the State exam. The State exam is made up of 200 questions based on law, community relations, use of force, and so much more. I alongside just about every other Recruit was extremely nervous and dreaded this day for weeks. Failing this exam means a Recruit can't be certified by the state of Illinois. Talk about pressure. The last time I was this nervous was on the other end of a phone conversation with a soft young beautiful voice stating "Steve, I think I'm pregnant." YIKES!

After almost 3 hours the exam was over. I felt mentally drained. This same emotion was echoed in the hallway by most of the other Recruits. As the rest of the day continued I couldn't believe the hardest part of the academy was now over. I've come so far from week 1 when I didn't know hardly anything - now I'm a walking talking criminal justice machine. Who'd ever think the academy would be so academically challenging. 5 exams, and a State test?! Wow, I'm just glad it's over.

Below is footage of a study session I attended this past weekend. 4 hours into studying, and booze and pizza became the main focus. Everybody was either showing off their pistols, reminiscing about the academy, bragging about work-out routines, or even enjoying the jacuzzi.....yes there was a jacuzzi. If study sessions are this exciting, then I can't wait til the Star Party.

*Star Party - Every graduating class has a "Star Party. "Recruits celebrate the week before graduation. In our case our Star Party includes a rented party bus with unlimited drinks and stripper pole. We'll travel to several spots in downtown Chicago, and celebrate our accomplishments.

Final Thought: I'll be graduating in less than 2 weeks. Which means I'll be 22 years by the time I hit the streets. I remember telling an old "significant other" of mine at age 19 if I didn't reach my goal by my 23rd birthday then I would reconsider my career focus. People constantly remind me that I'm "young" - but those are the same people that don't realize that time waits on no one. So at the end of the day instead of setting the bar low and accepting mediocrity, set the bar high and the rest will follow.....now that's some motivation for your *expletive*

Now let's just hope my 25 year age mark goal is just as challenging yet rewarding. You guys stick around, and we'll see.