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If you are trying to decide if a degree in criminal justice is the right thing for you, you must first and foremost forget about the "Cop" shows you probably watch on television each week and always remember the following: It's not what the real thing is all about. You must fall in love with the Law, all of it-the bad, the good and the really disgusting-all parts come together as one when you work in Law enforcement. I have been a Deputy Matron, a Jail Officer and a Communications Officer with the City, County and State Police. I stayed with it Seventeen years and left only when I felt I was no longer "Making A Difference". You will effect peoples lives in a way you cannot understand until you are there doing the job. The old saying "To Protect and To Serve" pretty well says it all. Don't ever make the decision to do this on whether or not you will make good money (Cops don't usually make good money, but they usually are extended good credit)or if you will have a really good and dependable retirement, have great benefits, even though in most states the former is true. You have to remember what it takes to get there. You work day and night, in bad weather and good, you face death, pain, and loss, sometimes daily. It will break your heart and rip it out and drag it down Main Street for all to see. It will also give you unbelievable pride and honor and faith in your fellow man. When you pin that badge on that uniform you will stand taller and and walk straighter, more so than you ever have done. You will walk with the knowledge that you are here to "Make the Difference".

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