Thinking about a career change: From accountant to cop

[m j b]

A friend of mine made the same career change when he was in his thirties. He loves it and still enjoys working there nearly 15 years later. Surely he's run into some lowlifes and there is an element of danger, but if it's what you want to do, then you should certainly give it a try. Best of luck to you!

[dba]

Originally Posted by Beo3

I cannot begin to tell you how many cops that I worked with are divorced, obese, alcoholics, don't talk to their kids or unfortunately took their own life.

True statement but there's a greater amount of cops that aren't the above. Did I get a divorce? Yep. But it had nothing to do with my being a cop. I talk to my kids at least weekly, sometimes more. They are both very busy young adults making their own way in the world. I'm not obese, but I'd admit I can loose a few pounds and I don't drink.

Is it easy to be a cop? F%#k no it isn't.!! If it was easy, anyone could do it. It was the honor of my life to be a cop, I just hated the agency/city I worked for. Would I do it again? Yes. It is a cross between the greatest show on earth and being on stage for the Jerry Springer Show! It was a calling for me and something I wanted to do since I was 8 years old.

For Crystal, best of luck! You are very marketable just about everywhere. At 32, you have some life experience and skills that the younger applicants just don't have. Life got in the way and I didn't start until 34. You're gonna do great if you apply yourself!

[Headshrinker]

I think it's a great idea for someone who doesn't like doing the same thing everyday. It is a difficult job that takes a good amount of courage and discipline; but if that is what you want, go for it.

[ChuckFinlay]

In the UK I would say no for the poor salary, poor working conditions and stifling of progression now due to direct entry everything.

In the USA I'd say no for other reasons, one of which is my experience at Washington Police Week, where where the exponential number of deaths is truly horrific.

[arinsd]

California LEO here... if you're passionate about it and really want a career in law enforcement then go for it. Apply to as many againces as you can to increase your chances of getting picked up. The process can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.

I will say with the climate and the respect for LEOs declining daily in not sure it's a career I would want for my son. People will think you make a decent pay (with overtime of course) but it's relative to the job.

I will tell you what I heard in the academy. Many people can judge a good day at work by sales numbers or how much paperwork they completed... a good day at work for an LEO is coming home alive.

[codecow]

Good for you man!