I am considering the LE route myself right now. I am just not sure if it is really what I want to do, can't explain why, maybe it is just anxiety of a huge change. My background:
-Graduated early
-Joined the military at 18
-Will be in for over 10 years when I get out in early '08
-One ticket for a illegal left turn when I was 16
-No drug use
-I like to think I work hard, but then again, not as hard as one of the guys I work with, that is for damn sure
-Joined the USCG mostly to make a difference (only service that has a peace time mission), but I can't see the forrest (the good) through the trees (office politics). I know every career is like that, but...
-I have to pass a physical fitness test every six months; 32 push-ups, 36 sit-ups, 5 chin-ups, 12:51 1.5 mile. I can pass with more to spare (though I don't feel like I am in good shape)
-Will have my Associates soon, working towards a Bachelors.
-Crappy hours no problem, weekends okay, recall alright.
My doubts are:
-Do I want to stay with a military type regiment for however many more years (hair cuts and grooming, ranking structures, etc). I know that civilian jobs have those to in reality (even if not written).
-Poor credit situation, that really isn't my fault. I know that sounds like BS, but alcohoism in my family did some destructive work, and no, I am not the drinker (I don't drink)
-Very little weapons experience. I like guns, but I don't own one (not counting a pellet and paintball gun
), so my proficiency is pretty low (but I am sure I have the ability to be average at least).
-Low confidence, just worried that I wouldn't be good at it. I know I am a good mechanic, which is what I do now, but I have no experience with LE stuff.
-Time away from family for training
I considered the CHP for a while, mostly to be a moto officer (I love to ride, so why now?). But geographic stability is a concern. I don't know if I want to have to do the time in smaller towns, either with a long commute or being a geo bachelor. I have done that enough being active duty. I have considered the Boarder Patrol as well, but then I have 6 months in Georgia (FLETC), which again, I have spent enough time away from home. I can do it, but I would rather choose not to.
What are some thoughts of the current LEO's on my situation? I know it is up to me no matter what, and I am leaning towards the LE field anyway. What other options are there besides local officers, CHP or Boarder Patrol?
I am going to work on ride-alongs soon with various agencies. Need to work out the time between work and school first.