I haven't been on the boards lately because I've been trying to get away from everything and try and look at what lies ahead of me. This meaning, what I want to do after college. I know for a fact that there are many wise, seasoned people on this board and that is why I come to you guys for advice and some insight.

I consider myself a fairly average kind of guy. I don't do anything exceptionally well, but it's not like I suck at anything. I'm just, average or maybe slightly above average in most things. I thought I wanted to be a programmer. I don't think it's for me. I tried business, even internatinal business. Not for me, although it does seem interesting. But I don't think I can ever be good at it. I've been thinking like this for almost a year now, trying to find purpose and direction. I consider myself very athletic and I'm able to pick up any sport very quickly. I also think I'm very coordinated and can do physical things well too.

That is why I am thinking of joining the police force in my county. But I'm afraid of disappointing my parents for I do go to a private university, paying 30k a year. But I feel that this might be it. But I'm not even sure for that matter. I'm also afraid for I don't know the inside scoop on being a police officer. I'm pretty sure there are a few cops on this board or retired veterans, are there not? What are the short-term/long-term benefits of being on the Force? What's the average starting pay? I live in Silicon Valley, Santa Clara County if that makes a difference. I just need some information that I would not be able to get by calling the precinct or looking online. Will I be able to start a family? Will I have time for my family?

Someone ring out and give me a flashlight. Need some guidance.

 

First of all, I think what you are doing now (asking here) is a good start. Your parents might be disappointed for a while, but if they love you and want you to be happy, they'll accept whatever decision you make. My niece went to college and got a major in Spanish. After she graduated, she worked at a sporting goods store until they closed. Now she works at a furniture store. She got pregnant six years ago and got married and now has two kids. No one thinks badly of her and her decisions. I know she feels she let her parents down by not pursuing a career in something. But, she seems happy and has a fulfilling life. I only got an associates degree in business, but continued working in an hourly manufacturing environment.
after almost 33 years of working, I decided to chuck it all and quit. Someday I plan on doing something I enjoy. But, for now, I need to just take it easy.
I don't know if this helps you or not, but I wish you well on the onset of your future whatever it may be.

 

It sounds like you have given this considerable thought. That's good. The only piece of advice I would give a young person trying to decide what to do for a major/career is that you should choose something that capitalizes on your strengths. If you are good at history and the social sciences but suck at math, don't try to force yourself into being an engineer even if that is what you desire. If you want to use your physical capability to be a cop, then finish out your degree in Criminal Science. If you want to use your athletic and sports ability to help kids, then get an Education degree and be a PE coach. Or perhaps you may want to consider a fire college and become a firefighter.

Regardless of your choice...it is your choice. Your parents do not have to live your life, you do. What ever your career, make sure it is something you want to do cuz you will spend most of your waking life at that job, on the way to that job, and going home from that job.

Best of luck...