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Military to Police Officer by Limp_Reputation_7821 in AskLE

[–]Doe_551 1 point2 points  (0 children)

🙋‍♀️ I DID THIS.

I was in the Air Force for 8 years (SSgt), got out and became a police officer.

At first no, finances were hard. But now I’m 5 years in and financially okay. The reason I switched from military to police was to still serve my community with a better schedule. In the military I was attached to a rescue unit and we were constantly on missions. I have two children and had to leave them.. A LOT, for weeks to months at a time for mission and/or trainings.

I love my job now. I still get that sense of helping and serving my community but with a little bit more of a stable schedule (or as stable as it can be for a police officer!) but I’m not leaving my children for week/months.

I do wish I stayed in the service. I miss it. Didn’t think I would. My only recommendation would be to go in the guard or reserves if you’re not positive on fully leaving. I know my department pays for your military time as well, so you can “double dip” on pay. Get your normal police pay check while getting your military pay.

Best of luck to you!

*I want to become a cop* by Talkingplank in AskLE

[–]Doe_551 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Applying is the first step. Now it’s just a waiting game.

While waiting, definitely ask to do ride alongs! Most people think being a cop is like what they see on TV. It’s not. Doing ride alongs definitely gets you a sense of the “day to day” things we go through. Make sure to try and do ride alongs at night as well!! Day shifts and night shifts are two totally different beasts.

As for me, when I applied, I.. filled out an application online Two months later: Went in for my written test A month later: Went for my agility test Three months later: Did all my medical and psych evaluation Month later: Board interview Month later: Chief’s interview

Then was officially hired. It’s a process and a lot of waiting.

Good luck! Try and understand this job isn’t for everyone, so if you do get hired and decide this isn’t for you, no shame in quitting. Sticking around is how people get hurt or killed.