thanks you two, your input is apreciated. I had never thought of volunteer work or "Borrowing" the gun. This changes everything...

serously, thanks for the time and thought

Yep - laws differ. In Colorado it was a county-by-county decision on 'concealed carry permits' and in Denver County you absolutely could not get one. However, in another, more rural county, as a revenue raising tool, the sheriff's office sold concealed carry permits (after an extensive background check) that were valid in all counties of Colorado. Here in Tennessee - permits are available as long as you have taken a certified firearms safety course available through police agencies.
As far as the park ranger/game warden request; I would call the state wildlife department and ask if there are any volunteer groups you could join. A friend of mine participated in several search and rescue missions within state parks that way.
Good luck.

Talk to your local police. There are Federal, state, and local laws that vary from town to town. There are certainly local groups that could advise you, as well as local hunting, firearm safety and NRA groups that would provide legal resources and legitimate reasons and activities that would justify gun ownership.

Ownership and carrying are two separate issues- could your parents buy the gun and be the legal owners, but loan it to you, let you use it?

In regards to the law enforcement career, again , talk to your local cops. That's where the opportunities will be known about. IN the long run, friends and connections there will pay off