I’ve always wanted to join the police like my mom, but I don’t want to put myself in danger.

Talk to some people on the police force, says our elder. What they have to say may surprise you.

Dear EWC

I know that I’m sort of young to be thinking about a definite career choice. I have a few years before I’m legally allowed to be on my own, but I think I want to be on the police force. I assure you that this is not some sort of childish wish. I have thought about it, but I’m conflicted. It would scare my mother. We have a strong connection and I don’t want to hurt her. But when I was a little girl, I listened to my mother’s stories about when she was working with the police. I thought about how cool she was and I truly looked up to her. Now that I’m in high school, I thought about the sacrifice and the courage that those people go through. I would be honored and more than up to the challenge presented, to join their ranks. However, I am also concerned. It’s a lot more dangerous than it was when my mama was on the force. And I know that the first couple years would be a desk job… but after that? I don’t know. I must seem a cowardly hypocrite so I’m sorry. But what would you suggest?

Papa-Smokey replies

You’re to be commended for considering a career with the police force that contributes to public safety. Like any other career there are pros and cons to this type of career. I would suggest you try to contact a local police office and see if you can talk to people who either currently work on the police force or have in the past and have a discussion with them about the pros and cons of how they perceive their job. You may be surprised by their input. I would ask them directly how they deal with the potential danger they face performing their job. After getting all this input you will have more information to consider before deciding if you want this type of job. I’m sure there are jobs with the police force that don’t expose you to the same levels of risk/danger so depending on your comfort level you could pick certain types of jobs with the police force that fit your risk profile.

I hope these suggestions are helpful. Good luck!

Letter #: 429149
Category: Career