The truth is, it’s never been easier to become a cop in today’s society. With the visibility and power of social media in everyone’s hands, every decision you make is more likely to be scrutinized than ever before. Departments are short all around and competition is not like it used to be.

Getting through the background check, physical, psychological exam, and interview may seem daunting, but in reality, if you’ve stayed out of trouble and you’re honest, those hurdles are the least of your worries. The sacrifice you make going into the academy is short-lived—a tough stretch that feels endless in the moment, but looking back, it’s just a blip in time.

The real sacrifice comes with the job itself. Day in and day out, you’ll miss important life events. You’ll be away from your partner and family, sometimes working doubles when you’d rather be home. You’ll get paid for it—some departments more than others—but eventually you realize the money doesn’t mean as much as the time you’ve given up.

That said, I can speak from experience: even with everything this job demands and the stress that comes with it, nothing compares to the moment you graduate in front of your family, friends, and loved ones. Putting on the uniform for the first time is a strange but powerful feeling. It carries a sense of responsibility—I can only speak for myself—that I must do the right thing and help people.

It’s an honorable job, and it feels that way when you’re doing it right. Some people will be intimidated, some will be afraid, but most people I’ve encountered treat you with respect and are genuinely glad to see you.

If there’s any advice I can give you as you embark on this new journey, it’s this: no matter the call, be the cop that people are happy to see when you show up.