Help deciding career, thinking about police officer?

Question

I am 18 and I'm not sure what I want to do. I want to be a lawyer but that's a lot of work and I also want to be a police officer. I was wondering if anyone could give me the pros and cons along with any personal expierece about being a police officer to help my decision. Thanks!

Answer 1

Being a police officer is admirable. Qualified police officer candidates are in demand in many places. I suggest getting a degree before trying to become a police officer. Having a degree would allow you to be more selective when it comes to applying for police officer positions. A degree will probably also benefit you when it comes time to trying to earn a promotion. Some police departments pay their officers more if they have a degree. What you might want to do is go to the police department that you are interested in and simply ask to speak with some of the officers. Even flag one down on the street or talk to an officer when you see one that is not busy. Most officers would appreciate the interest. Pros and cons and working conditions can vary from department to department or even patrol area to patrol area. Also, you could consider other law enforcement officer jobs such as federal agents or investigators, state agents or investigators, conservation or natural resources officers, park rangers, etc., etc. Check out http://www.peaceofficerjobs.com for excellent information and advice about becoming a police officer.

Answer 2

Well, I'm not one myself but friends with a few-

some pros- you get to help people day in and day out, you generally get good benefits, you meet all kinds of people all the time, you help get drugs and illegal weapons off the streets, every day brings new scenarios

cons- you put yourself in danger everyday, sometimes the 'bad guy' gets off too easily despite all your hard work, some people are just pains in the rump

I think the profession is best suited to someone who is 'thick skinned', meticulous in paying attention to details, and has the patinece of a saint

I CANNOT stress enough how much respect our officers deserve, but rarely get, from the general public!