USN NROTC Duty Preference Choices

[schwaack]

All,

I’m a rising MIDN 1/C and we just got our duty preference sheet. We still have a few weeks to fill it out, however, I’m in need of some advice.

I really want to be an aviator. I have the scores for it (3.9 GPA, 7/8/8 ASTB, ~280 PRT) but I’m not sure if I should just avoid putting NFO as a preference at all. I fully understand that needs of the Navy come first before my preferences or scores, but will me not putting NFO on my duty preference sheet help me avoid the “quality spread” (placing high scorers into NFO)?

Any feedback is appreciated, thank you!

 

[FormerRecruitingGuru]

All,

I’m a rising MIDN 1/C and we just got our duty preference sheet. We still have a few weeks to fill it out, however, I’m in need of some advice.

I really want to be an aviator. I have the scores for it (3.9 GPA, 7/8/8 ASTB, ~280 PRT) but I’m not sure if I should just avoid putting NFO as a preference at all. I fully understand that needs of the Navy come first before my preferences or scores, but will me not putting NFO on my duty preference sheet help me avoid the “quality spread” (placing high scorers into NFO)?

Any feedback is appreciated, thank you!

Did you talk to your advisor? How about previous years MIDN? Lots of resources you can find to help.

 

[schwaack]

Did you talk to your advisor? How about previous years MIDN? Lots of resources you can find to help.

Yeah I’ve spoken advisors and upperclassmen and I’m getting mixed opinions, but I’m leaning towards not putting it on at all. Was just looking for some additional input.

 

[Renegade One]

I was going to advise not putting anything that you won't be happy with, but I guess you NROTC types have to get slotted somewhere. NFO isn't exactly a shitty deal...said the NFO. But...it's your choice.

 

[Pags]

I was going to advise not putting anything that you won't be happy with, but I guess you NROTC types have to get slotted somewhere. NFO isn't exactly a shitty deal...said the NFO. But...it's your choice.

You have to have a second choice if #1 doesn't work out. If you can't be an aviator, would you rather be an NFO, SWO, or Sub guy? As @Renegade One said, you have to go somewhere once you commission; where's it gonna be? Personally, I can't remember if NFO or SWO-EDO was my second choice because #1 worked out.

 

[Uncle Fester]

What @Pags said. You’re going to wind up doing something, and while I get preferring being a pilot to being an NFO, you’re better off maximizing your chances of being in aviation, even if it’s one more anchor than preferred.

 

[HAL Pilot]

But if you'll be a shitty NFO out of resentment for not getting pilot, don't put NFO. Life is too short too spend 8 years or so in aviation jealous of the pilots. If this is the case, do something else other than NFO if you don't get pilot.