Some summarized notes with my comments weaved in:
- Candidates should know the difference between the designators and associated missions and should read the Program Authorizations for their designator choices. I think I mentioned this before. I've interviewed candidates who knew very little about the designators, including their first choice
- Candidates should apply for the designator that best suits their experience, education, and and skills. If you want IP but are best suited for Intel, then you should focus on Intel
- Some candidates were selected based on their 2nd or 3rd designator preference
- Designator preferences should be consistent throughout the entire application (consistent theme) and recruiters should be guiding candidates
- Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) education and expertise is highly desired
- Candidates with civilian experience in space are desired
- Motivational statements should detail why candidate desires a commission and in the specific designator choice