Join the military...
Forget it, the military doesn't want people with felonies on their record.
The military doesn't need felons.
This really is a serious problem. With so many convictions for Drugs and stupid laws it is much easier to get a felony conviction than it used to be.
Because of the extensive background record keeping. There is no redemption any longer. I don't know what the answer is but what used to be called a "youthful indiscretion" is now a life sentence as far as felons are concerned. Getting your record expunged is not easy any longer, With all the publicity on felons that recommit crimes judges are reluctant to do it.
Every family has someone that gets into trouble. It breaks your heart if they stop their destructive behavior and start acting right but can't get the chance to earn a decent living.
Used to be, if you messed up you just moved to another part of the country and started over. That is not an option any longer. Neither is joining the Military.