Expert: PaulKoinig - 4/10/2008

Question
QUESTION: I am a senior in college and I am graduating in a couple of weeks. I am pursuing a career as a teacher and a coach right now, but I am seriously considering becoming a police officer.

It feels like when I am set on one the other pops up in my head. I think they would both be great careers.

I want a job that is constantly changing and also where I can help people. I am also a very family oriented man.

Here are my questions:

What is life like as a COP?
What are the hours like when you start compared to 10-20 years experience?
What characteristics make a good COP?
Is it a hard profession to get in to?
Can I still spend a lot of time with my family as a young COP?

Thanks so much. I am sorry there are a lot of questions. I am just really curious. Thanks for your time.

ANSWER: Jeff, I love these type of questions. First and foremost, have you discussed this with your family?? I believe this is a priority. Can they adjust to you maybe not coming home after your shift?? Now as for the job, you will most likely start on mids. Yeah, I know but hey gotta start somewhere. If you havent seen, police work encompasses both teaching and coaching skills which most young cops dont understand. You have a big edge there. Most agencies look at each one of us as family. FAMILY is always first. Spending quality time at home is a prority. As a supervisor I always allow time to my guys to spend with family to keep our sanity. I hope I have answer your thoughts and wish you the best whichever way you choose.
Good Luck
Paul

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so much for your input. I really appreciate it.

As a follow up:

What are the shift breakdowns?
Do police officers get weekends off?
How long until you get the "good shifts"?

Answer
Jeff, every agency is different. Some work 8 hr shifts and some work 11 1/2 hr shifts. Weekends go on a rotation depending on the type of shift schedule. The good shifts are whatever you deem them to be. I worked mids for 15 years, loved it. Have worked days for the past 8 and had to get used to it but do have quality family time.
Paul