Any Oregon Officers? Thinking of becoming an LEO, Advice?

[FutureOfficer?]

Hi everyone,

Before I say anything, I just want to say I have read the forums here and so I am fully ready for the negative replies I may receive, But hope to at least get a couple positive ones at the same time!

I am a 25 year old father of one who needs to start a career. I was hit by a drunk driver in 2011, and although I luckily escaped with minor injuries... It hit me pretty hard financially, due to me being recently unemployed prior to the wreck and the fact that the job market is so poor as of late.

I want to go to school, to start a career that I can hopefully do well in and enjoy. I thought about trying for Automotive Technician (As I am a gear head) or getting my CDL and hitting the open road. But after having some doubts that those are the right career choices for me, I realized that what I think I would get the most fulfillment out of is being an LEO.

I have read "Becoming a Police officer" by Berry Baker, and I plan on doing a ride along with a member of the Portland Police Dept. in the very near future. I was considering going to Pioneer Pacific College for a Law enforcement degree, But not sure if it's the best choice to go about getting into LE.

So, My main question is for anyone who is a current LEO in Oregon, who might have advice on how to get started? Or even anyone with general advice on the subject would probably be helpful!

Thank you for any and all advice, Or for reading this at the very least!

~Josh