For someone who got a college degree, is being a cop or teacher more impressive on resume than manual labor?
Asked by pa4vt
Right now I'm a part-time lifeguard at an indoor hotel pool and part-time manager at a small business gas station owned by my family. I feel bummed out that they weren't impressive enough on my resume to get me invited for interviews. I've narrowed my options down so far to either becoming a cop, teacher, or Army officer. I understand it depends on what kind of tasks exactly I do as a cop or teacher, but I'm just wondering in general or overall if it'll increase my chances of getting a professional job in other industries besides law enforcement and education. I know Army is best bet in terms of opportunities since we all know they're desperate for manpower. Of course, we all know that the downside is I'll very likely be sent to Iraq and it's a question of whether I'll survive it or not. I already tried out for other branches with no success; waiting to hear from Navy though. BTW if I do decide I want to try out for teaching, should I be fully formal just like I would for any other job interviews even if I'm well acquainted with the interviewer? The potential interviewer was my AP Calc teacher in HS, and kept in touch with him a few times since then. Would it still be a bad idea to ask about what pay and benefits are like? Of course, I know common sense says it is with any other formal job interviews.

Best Answer:
1. you need a BA or BS at least to become an Army officer. (even enlisted personnel 25 and over usually have their BA.) even then you will probably need to finish your graduate degree to get promoted. once you gain rank more is expected of you, especially if your an officer. you will be working long days working, attending meetings, and leadership workshops. yes, the military will be helpful in your career as a cop. 2. teaching, now there's an easy job, summers off and a pension. because it is a union job you will have job security. you need a BA or BS in anything and teaching credentials. 3. cop, another good profession with benefits that other civilian jobs can't match. why don't you do a ride-a-long with a cop, i did and it was pretty interesting. these guys retire at 50 with a full pension. that's huge!!! you have got alot of decisions to make and you've picked some very good occupations. good luck.