JLew
Member
Hello AW,
I would like to get a few opinions on enlisting at 37; basically a reality check on how the next 6 years could play out if I compete at a high level and pursue the best options available to me in the Navy.
I have solid education in business and very analytical work experience in FinTech (financial services technology), but I am looking to get way more technical (computer programming, electronics, etc). Crypto and AECF are very appealing to me. I was given AECF at MEPS, apparently being followed up with a DAR for CT pending my security clearance application.
I was also told (by basically everyone) to try the Officer route first, because of my Master's degree; so I am dual-enrolled...but only Intel is available due to my age. Intel seems like it would be a great option after I spent some time enlisted (many folks on AW seem to think it's something you work into?)...but I don't have a ton of time; I don't have fancy letters from politicians or high ranking military members. I'm planning to take the OAR exam early January and see how competitive that stacks up. Recruiters basically hear me out, show support and let me rationalize either direction. I really like the idea of starting back in the weeds and becoming a subject matter expert in a versatile rating that will provide long-term value (inside or outside the Navy).
I am pretty well-rounded socially, emotionally, intellectually, culturally, professionally, and I have good self-awareness. The thought of a "desk job" no longer appeals to me at the moment and I'm ready to serve. I'd like to live in Europe for a bit, spend some time on a ship (probably not a Sub). I'm also sick of working from home and staring at my computer screen all day, solving problems that I am far from passionate about. I like the idea of structure to help me focus; I like the idea of having no distractions so I can teach myself to code (and maybe combine that with ET skills to be a real-life Tony Stark?). My goal for PFT is to hit the Excellent level, so I'm prepared to hang with the ranks all-the-way.
If I enlist, are my chances of becoming a commissioned officer dead? Is Intel via OCS a fantasy land shot with my background? If I really love my rating and become extremely proficient as I advance, which rank should be my target in how many years? Would it be smart to drop a package soon after A school, so I can add military references and experience appropriate for the Intel community? What are some more good questions I should be asking to weigh the pros/cons of my situation?
Thanks!!
Future Sailor
I would like to get a few opinions on enlisting at 37; basically a reality check on how the next 6 years could play out if I compete at a high level and pursue the best options available to me in the Navy.
I have solid education in business and very analytical work experience in FinTech (financial services technology), but I am looking to get way more technical (computer programming, electronics, etc). Crypto and AECF are very appealing to me. I was given AECF at MEPS, apparently being followed up with a DAR for CT pending my security clearance application.
I was also told (by basically everyone) to try the Officer route first, because of my Master's degree; so I am dual-enrolled...but only Intel is available due to my age. Intel seems like it would be a great option after I spent some time enlisted (many folks on AW seem to think it's something you work into?)...but I don't have a ton of time; I don't have fancy letters from politicians or high ranking military members. I'm planning to take the OAR exam early January and see how competitive that stacks up. Recruiters basically hear me out, show support and let me rationalize either direction. I really like the idea of starting back in the weeds and becoming a subject matter expert in a versatile rating that will provide long-term value (inside or outside the Navy).
I am pretty well-rounded socially, emotionally, intellectually, culturally, professionally, and I have good self-awareness. The thought of a "desk job" no longer appeals to me at the moment and I'm ready to serve. I'd like to live in Europe for a bit, spend some time on a ship (probably not a Sub). I'm also sick of working from home and staring at my computer screen all day, solving problems that I am far from passionate about. I like the idea of structure to help me focus; I like the idea of having no distractions so I can teach myself to code (and maybe combine that with ET skills to be a real-life Tony Stark?). My goal for PFT is to hit the Excellent level, so I'm prepared to hang with the ranks all-the-way.
If I enlist, are my chances of becoming a commissioned officer dead? Is Intel via OCS a fantasy land shot with my background? If I really love my rating and become extremely proficient as I advance, which rank should be my target in how many years? Would it be smart to drop a package soon after A school, so I can add military references and experience appropriate for the Intel community? What are some more good questions I should be asking to weigh the pros/cons of my situation?
Thanks!!
Future Sailor
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