Ok, so I am a 23 year old soon to be college graduate (2 classes left) debating on whether I should go the enlisted route or straight to OCS. I want to fly, but I understand there are a lot of other people out there that have the same dream as myself. I've taken my ASVAB and scored good, not great and passed MEPS with no problems there. I have about $60,000 in student loans. That's part of the dilemma, so here's my train of thought and would really appreciate some un-biased opinions since my professor (ret. Naval capt) said of course go to OCS and pay off your student loans as an officer, while some family and friends think I should go as enlisted to pay off that debt and later apply for OCS:
First of all, the Navy from what I have been told is NOT hiring. It's packed and now is not the time to be picky. So later this week, I will be told what enlisted jobs there are available when I return to MEPS and assuming I see one that I like, I choose to enlist and devote my time and dedication in perfecting that job. In the meantime, my student loans will be taken care of, I'll travel the world (hopefully) and in my spare time go to the local aero club at the naval base and continue my flight training (I already have my PPL) by using NOT my GI Bill, but Tuition Assistance.
In situation two, I quickly finish up and take those two classes that I need to finish my degree and apply to OCS. Some of my background: I have a 3.2 GPA from a private University in Chicago in Political Science, captained our lacrosse team for two years and also was on the board all 4 years including being President and VP for 2 of the years, and now currently one of the lacrosse coaches at my old high school. Point being, although my GPA could be considered low, my extra curricular activities could offset that a bit. Meanwhile, I go to OCS, get a better paycheck and perhaps job if one is open, and pay off my student loans since I would not be eligible for the Loan Repayment Program. I have no prior incidences with the law, no MIP (Minor in Possessions) DUI's, etc...
I am trying to make the best decision and would appreciate any inputs...thanks in advance.
First of all, the Navy from what I have been told is NOT hiring. It's packed and now is not the time to be picky. So later this week, I will be told what enlisted jobs there are available when I return to MEPS and assuming I see one that I like, I choose to enlist and devote my time and dedication in perfecting that job. In the meantime, my student loans will be taken care of, I'll travel the world (hopefully) and in my spare time go to the local aero club at the naval base and continue my flight training (I already have my PPL) by using NOT my GI Bill, but Tuition Assistance.
In situation two, I quickly finish up and take those two classes that I need to finish my degree and apply to OCS. Some of my background: I have a 3.2 GPA from a private University in Chicago in Political Science, captained our lacrosse team for two years and also was on the board all 4 years including being President and VP for 2 of the years, and now currently one of the lacrosse coaches at my old high school. Point being, although my GPA could be considered low, my extra curricular activities could offset that a bit. Meanwhile, I go to OCS, get a better paycheck and perhaps job if one is open, and pay off my student loans since I would not be eligible for the Loan Repayment Program. I have no prior incidences with the law, no MIP (Minor in Possessions) DUI's, etc...
I am trying to make the best decision and would appreciate any inputs...thanks in advance.