I've been on the job for (4) four years now. If it was all about the money I would have put my (4) four undergraduate degrees to better use than that of a PO. If I was not interested in creating a better place to live for my family and others, I would be doing something else. My degrees are not "State Quin Bill Approved". It is not about the money however, as someone pointed out, those of us that have families need to make prudent decisions. My employer currently contributes only 50% towards Healthcare. That relates to "my" contribution of approx $108 dollars per week for health insurance for a family plan. We do not have a dental option. These are questions that I feel a rational person should have answered before making an educated decision. Aside from my current employment I am trying to pre-plan in case the opportunity arises to join the ranks of the MSP. I do not want to get caught with my "pants down" so to speak. "Those that fail to plan, plan to Fail". Another academy will have some impact on my spouse and our child (1yr/old). Our current work schedules allow us to care for our child ourselves without having to use family or day care. There are many people out there with questionable character. I know that by caring for my family myself I do not have to be concerned about what kind of care or mistreatment they may be given. As do most gainfully employed PO's I have a mortgage payment every month along with two-car payments along with the usual neccessaties. I don't live lavishly but I do want to live. Its not all about he money! It is reassuring to know what it will take to make ends meet during the training.
The folks reading this that have worked for corporate America simply will not understand as most have probably received 100% health &dental, matching 401K, nights and weekends off or at least a considerable compensation for shift work. Other PO's with families that are in a similair situation will comprehend a need to plan.
Our community dental plan if you call it that......hopefully, the guy that knocks your teeth out is employed (Not with a Mass EBT Card either) and hopefully, the Judge demands restitution as a term of probation. Wishfull thinking, make sure you have current dental x-rays. If your employer is like most: "It must of happened outside of work".. Those that know, a little more humor ...