Joining the LAPD

[SwaggerSam]

Hey All,

I'm 22 years old, graduated ITT-Tech at the age of 20 with an associates of science in computer drafting and design.

I've been working at my job for 2 years and going before that I've worked 3 jobs each utilizing my degree and each spanned from 3 months to 8 months. I was laid off by 2 jobs because of my inexperience. Prior to me obtaining my degree I've worked while in high school holding signs for a 1 year and 6 months, then rite aid for 1 year. *Bare with me this will all be relevant to the questions I will be asking*

I've recently been informed by an LAPD recruit officer that my degree is not validated and will not be accepted into the LAPD.

I have now decided to go back to traditional community college full-time and will be obtaining my associates in criminal justice in 2 years and another year and a half I will be recieving my bs for crim. admin. just.

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My credit is banged up a bit I have a credit card that I am paying off that is in collections due to my arrogance and spending habits while I was in college.
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Now here comes the questions;

In 4-5 years, even after paying off this credit card can I be DQ'd for it going to collections?

Should I apply after I have recieved my associates degree?

I have tattoos one is a half sleeve dedicated to my mother, another is a forarm tattoo dedicated to my fiance, and I have a chest piece that is for my culture. Will any of these DQ me?

For the LEO's who do have tattoos are you guys covering it up?

I have bought books on the PQE and have studied almost every one of them, do these help at all for the PQE test?

How long was your (LEO's) application process?

Thank you again for your responses.

-Sam