Posted on Dec 22, 2016
Should I consider commissioning active duty even if it's not my original choice?
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I'm presently an MS3 cadet (non-scholarship) set to commission in May of 2018. I have 3.3 GPA, 285 APFT score and my first branching choice is Transportation (I'm currently SMP in a transportation unit, USAR). My first choice is Reserve, but should I consider Active Duty? And can I get it based on all the information above? What are some pros/cons to commissioning AD opposed to RC?
Posted 8 y ago
Responses: 8
Gamble with trying to get AD but be prepared to get RC. Honestly, your GPA and APFT don't matter. It's about quotas. AD will select a quota from each school and give the rest to RC. They do give preference first. Though you may not get the branch you want for AD, there is a higher chance to get it if you choose RC. Like CPT Gabe Snell said, if you don't have plans for the civilian side, go see the world and gain experience on AD.
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IMHO, I would go AD first to see what it is like, and after you get some experience, either stay AD or go reserves. I believe the time on Active Duty can only benefit you in the reserves.
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Interesting. you are to be recognized for just being in a ROTC program and doing well academically. That generates options. Have spent time at several Army ROTC programs and West Point. Unless you have your sights on a particular civilian job why not go for active duty? Have to imagine you would have more learning opportunities and leadership development experiences going active duty. Also a chance to see if you want to progress towards a military career. We see much demand for five year officers in the civilian business world. You can continue to serve in Reserves or National Guard. Does that help?
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Ken Kraetzer
Key factor on selection will be performance at LDAC before the start of your senior year. If you appear well prepared and eager for leadership roles, that has to go along way.
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CPT (Join to see)
It does help, I do have my sights set on a particular civilian career already but I guess it wouldn't hurt just to see my options
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Ken Kraetzer
CPT (Join to see) - For certain specialties like supply chain mgt or communications, or human resources, you can learn a lot in the Army.
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