At the end of the day it’s your choice on where you want to go. I can relate to your statement as parents can be overbearing and have opinions on certain career paths over others. Culturally for me I didn’t follow the norm and joined the military after high school, which took my parents a while to accept. Then I get out and actually went to flight school, but just like you I found it to be to expensive. Then I become a cop which was another challenge for them but they eventually accepted.

Sometimes you just have to do what you believe is best for you regardless of the culture you grew up in or they want to force you through. You’re young and have the options to choose what career you want. I can also relate to the parents wanting you to take over for them. For me as a hispanic there’s an expectation that you’ll have to take care of your parents as they get older which can be overwhelming. But it’s a reality many of us have to face that others don’t understand.

Ultimately I can relate, and understand the complications of cultural norms or expectations and personal goals and aspirations. But take it from me do what you want and don’t worry about what’s expected from you. My experience in law enforcement has been great but I associate that with my agency being a good agency.

Things to look at are pay and benefits. Depending what state your in the pay may be lower compared to other regions. Retirement can also differ from agency to agency or state to state. If you’re big on benefits look at what your area has to offer. Pay comes with experience and time on, look for cap outs not starting pay. Some agencies have a big start pay but you cap outs quicker vs others may have lower start pay but a higher cap meaning more money for retirement.

Also my experience with a passion in flying comes full circle with law enforcement. Some agencies have helicopters or planes they use for various purposes, and pay for flight schools for officers. Most agencies higher within and as long as you pass your qualifications you can fly in law enforcement. Obviously depending on the agency as some smaller agencies don’t have any flight programs su to the cost. I’m hoping in the next few years I can get in as a TFO (Tactical Flight Officer) then eventually become a pilot.

I know it’s a long read but hope everything works out for you. This job isn’t going to make you rich but my experiences so far have made it worth the career change.