soldier

They’re armed with the latest in high-tech weaponry and cherished as heroes by their countrymen — which may make risking their lives on a daily basis just a little bit easier.

Entertainer/Model

Sure, they get to travel the world and get paid the big bucks, but the competition is tough — and mainting their looks is even tougher.

artist

Even though they’re not promised any of the money or fame usually reserved for other celebrities, artists get to do what they love: spend their lives expressing themselves.

cocktail waitress

With the advent of “Hooters” restaurants, the job of the cocktail waitress has been elevated to that of a cultural icon, but even a good tip sometimes isn’t worth dealing with drunken customers.

construction

While it’s not hard to tell they are master builders and handyman, constructions workers face dangerous conditions, often in very extreme weather.

cowboy

More than just the Marlboro Man, real-life cowboys live the quiet life far from the city, and their office is the great outdoors.

firefighter

More than just the ones you see at charity auctions, firefighters have become American heroes in the wake of 9/11.

news-tv

Although it can be a tough niche to break into, your local TV news personality can make a great living being in front of the cameras.

nurses

They work long hours and often under highly stressful situations, but it’s one of the few jobs that can save lives.

pro-athlete

Fame and big bucks make it good to be king for LeBron and other professional athletes, but your chances of making a living out of playing ball are pretty slim.