Common Questions Asked About Military Life

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Military Career Advice

(Submitted by: buzzin’07)


I would like to become an Emergency Medical Technician (First Responder), and I was wondering if there is a program and/or need for them in the Military. If yes, what is the training like, and how do I find out more about a career like this?

December 22, 2008 • Tags: Career, Emergency Medical Technician, Military Training • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: crazykd183)


I’m doing a math project on my future career,and i was wondering how math is used in the military.

December 14, 2008 • Posted in: Military Career • 11 Comments

(Submitted by: t-rev)


Ok, so all my life, I’ve wanted to do something clandestine…like covert ops or something. There’s a few career choices that are catching my eye. I am 15 years old, and I am in peak physical condition. I have wanted to do something like these since I was about 6. If anybody can give me a reasonably detailed description of each? Remember, I’ve been doing my homework on these for a few years now, so I know a bit, but there’s still stuff I want to know.

Navy SEALS- So far my top choice. Not only are they very secretive and go for a stealthy approach, but i do believe they get a lot of action compared to most others. They also have arguably the most rigorous physical training on Earth. I want to be the best of the best, and these guys are making my spidey-senses tingle.

National Security Agency (or Association…i’m not sure)- I’m not sure what these guys are totally about. I don’t know how many covert operations they do, but doing counterterrorism missions sounds good to me…

CIA Clandestine Services- I think these guys are pretty much spies. I know it’s not going to be all it’s cut out to be in the movies, but hey…who wouldn’t want to be a SPY!!!??? I would!

Army Ranger- I don’t think they’re as secretive as the rest, but I know they’re Special Operations like the Navy SEALs. My cousin’s a Ranger, and it sort of sounds ok…

I would like to know about each one… I don’t expect everyone to know everything about the Covert Ops world, but hey…

December 7, 2008 • Tags: Clandestine Services, Cousin, Military Government • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: Jesse B)


I am currently a student at a four year university. I have my associates degree already and working towards a bachelors degree. My career goal is to get into Law Enforcement, either a Police Department or the CHP. For some time now I have been considering joining the military. I am just interested in some feedback on how military service is weighed when applying to police departments

November 29, 2008 • Tags: Chp, Law Enforcement, Police Department • Posted in: Military Career • 4 Comments

(Submitted by: Kevin)


All I really want to do with my life is see as much of the world as I can.. Besides military, cruise ships, or working on an airplane, what’s the best career I can have to see the world with?

November 25, 2008 • Tags: Career, Cruise Ships, Travel Worldwide • Posted in: Military Career • 5 Comments

(Submitted by: S.N.)


Im studying to become a psychologist so im not exactly the type of girl that could hold a gun and shoot people… i would have a panic attack or die of shock if i was fighting in a foreign country. That sucks… but i love law enforcement..i would like to work at a place where everythng is about control, order, laws, etc etc.. i really like that… but i have no idea what to do!! any advice?
nothing involving math or being a lawyer…BORING. If i had the guts and if i wasnt engaged i would be a marine BUT..
I’ve thought about it so much that when i was 18 i was about to enroll but then my parents stopped me Im now 21. I also had a dream where i was signing papers and i could feel all the adrenaline and stuff….but at the same time im scared to death of guns and amputations

November 6, 2008 • Tags: Love, Panic Attack, Type Of Girl • Posted in: Military Career • 8 Comments

(Submitted by: Tequila)


My friend is about to marry into the military and is trying to get a better understanding on how her actions would affect her husbands career .

October 24, 2008 • Tags: Dui, Military Soldier • Posted in: Military Career • 9 Comments

(Submitted by: percyl53)


How does it work? Does this include ALL 5 military branches? Because I’ve always been interested in the US Coast Guard, and if I can utilize my service towards a firefighting career in the future that would be great!

October 13, 2008 • Tags: Military Branches, Preference, Us Coast Guard • Posted in: Military Career • 2 Comments

(Submitted by: Matt Humberto)


I spend the majority of my free time exploring new subjects and then “beating the life out of it” for the next 2 years or so. The strangest part is that the subjects I’ve enjoyed exploring have never fit one neat category.

For example, the last 6 months or so I’ve been reading about the stock market. I’ve been absolutely fasinated by it. But consider these other things I’ve enjoyed studying for quite a length of time:

1) Walt Whitman’s poetry
2) The military campaigns of Erwin Rommel
3) Computer game development
4) The theology of C.S. Lewis

I’m nervous about picking just one “field of study” for my career since I know my interests are so numerous and not even remotely interrelated. The only common denominator among these interests are my fascination in exploring theories, explanations, and creative processes.

I’ve read many career books (What Color is your Parachute) and have taken many, many personality tests (Myerrs-Briggs). Still need more help. Thanks!

October 1, 2008 • Tags: Career Choice, Common Denominator, Theology • Posted in: Military Career • 4 Comments

(Submitted by: ? LITTLE HORN ?)


I am currently in high school, 11th grade. i’m looking for a good military school to attend in california. to persuit my career in the Marines.

September 27, 2008 • Tags: Career, Marines, Military School • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: Karen)


I am retired military, I have my BA in psychology, my MA in higher education administration, completed an internship in the career office of a local university and was a division & department career counselor while in the Navy - I have applied for about 400 positions over the past 2 years and have had interviews but no offers. The only thing I have been told is that someone with more experience was hired - how can I get the experience? Can anyone give me some ideas, I have run out of them. Thanks.

September 14, 2008 • Tags: Career Counselor, Higher Education Administration, Local University • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: David C)


I am separating from service (ya great time I know) anyways I have 7 years of honorable military service and a bachelors degree in criminal justice.

With that what are the best places right now to look for a career because I a father of three and can’t live off a McDonalds paycheck.

Thanks to all who answer.

September 3, 2008 • Tags: Mcdonalds, Military Service, Ya • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: wildside.media)


What I am trying to ask is how do you start a career without going to school? I mostly have skills as a mechanic working in a tire store and working as a Bradley mechanic in the military. I don’t want to work as a mechanic anymore. I had a job as a technical support agent but that job was too stressful. I love computers but without a college education I really can’t work with computers. I attended Digipen for 2 semesters but don’t have anymore money to attend. I have to go back into the Army because I have applied to over 150 jobs and haven’t been hired for a single one. I have had lots of interviews but no one has given me a call back. I know what I want to do but don’t have the money for it. I want to make video games, write novels and stories, even make films. I don’t know where to start. I am 29 years old and need to find a job where I can make my living. Any responses will help.

Thanks.

September 3, 2008 • Tags: Computers Education, Films, Mechanic • Posted in: Military Career • 2 Comments

(Submitted by: Kwik)


I am in the U.S. Marines, I am in the infantry and I am looking to get out of the military in early 2011. I am looking for a job that I can succeed in, make a career out of. Not just another dead end hate your life JOB! Like the last one.

September 3, 2008 • Tags: Career, Infantry, Jobs • Posted in: Military Career • 1 Comment

(Submitted by: B Z)


If I served between 3-6 years, which military branch would be the best to join that would give me the most benefits for college (while serving/active-duty and after), and also for future career opportunites once out. (And the best pay earned while active of course.)

I’m looking for something in the construction/architectural type area, as I aspire to be an architect eventually.

I’ve looked at the websites, but I’m hoping for some more personal advice and opinions rather, or advice from someone more knowledgable on the matter.

Also, if you have any relative information in regards to the reserves, please share that too. Thx
That’s the thing… I don’t have the money resources to go to college otherwise. But they do have many occupations where you are not in the direct line of fire most, if not all of the time.

I’m a US resident by the way… so the US military.

August 31, 2008 • Tags: 6 Years, Line Of Fire, Money Resources • Posted in: Military Career • 10 Comments

(Submitted by: The Drifter)


When someone with a military background is interviewed for a job, what would an employer ask about their former career?
I am currently a tank crewman in the US Army. Tanker skills don’t exactly apply much to any civilian job, but would they ask about it anyway?

August 20, 2008 • Tags: Civilian Job, Military Experience, Prospective Employee • Posted in: Military Career • 7 Comments

(Submitted by: ArMy VeT)


I am an OIF veteran who was in the military for 8 years. I have been back a year, and I have yet to find a decent job. I’m looking for a position with career potential.
I have some college, but no degree. I was in Maintenance and I am NOT looking to pursue a career in the same field. I have applied through USAJOBS, but they seem to prefer those with degrees.. how ironic!! I am proud to have served.. but recently I have been feeling it was a waste of my time. It means nothing out here on the civilian side of the world.

August 16, 2008 • Tags: Maintenance, Military Experience, Waste Of My Time • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: Duncan G)


I am interested in joining the military and have reserched all kinds of careers but im not sure which one is best for me. i was esespecially interested in pararescue, green berets, and anything that has to do with skydiving .If you have any suggestions please answer.

August 13, 2008 • Tags: Green Berets, Job, Skydiving • Posted in: Military Career • 7 Comments

(Submitted by: symphony74)


Just curious what others do while moving around the world. What kinds of jobs are available to us? I think I would go crazy just staying at home all the time!! Serious answers only please!! Thanks.

August 11, 2008 • Tags: Military Careers, Military Wives, Moving • Posted in: Military Career • 4 Comments

(Submitted by: admorgan24)


I have completed a four year degree, and most jobs have offered $30-$50 an hour depending on the company. I want a civilan life again, but I worry about retirement plans and job security. Although I would still have to work to compensate for retiring from the military, at least I know there will be some sort of check coming in each month. If you are unhappy with what you do, should you risk seeking another career? By the way, I will have 8 years in when I am able to leave the military.

August 9, 2008 • Tags: Civilian Job, Retirement Plans, Risk • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: emmyhalli)


My ex is joining the military through some officer training program or other for the army..I’m sorry, I don’t really understand any of this so if I don’t sound like I’m being respectful or like I don’t understand, it’s because I have NO idea what I’m talking about.
I am still very in love with him and he is still in love with me, we broke up mutually because I moved away, we essentially put it on hold. Anyway, I’m against the current war and dislike our current president/political leaders. I want to support him in his choice to do this, because this is what he wants for his career and his life, but I am terrified that he won’t come home. How do I deal with his desire to do something I’m against and that puts him at such great risk? I only want him to be happy, and I truly mean that. Please help.
He’s not my ex husband, we’re both in school still, he graduates next May, I’ve got 3 years left. We’ve talked about spending our lives together, but we’re waiting until I return to California…Sorry for the confusion.

August 7, 2008 • Tags: Military Officer, Officer Training, Sorry For The Confusion • Posted in: Military Career • 12 Comments

(Submitted by: Matt Humberto)


I spend the majority of my free time exploring new subjects and then “beating the life out of it” for the next 2 years or so. The strangest part is that the subjects I’ve enjoyed exploring have never fit one neat category.

For example, the last 6 months or so I’ve been reading about the stock market. I’ve been absolutely fasinated by it. But consider these other things I’ve enjoyed studying for quite a length of time:

1) Walt Whitman’s poetry
2) The military campaigns of Erwin Rommel
3) Computer game development
4) The theology of C.S. Lewis

I’m nervous about picking just one “field of study” for my career since I know my interests are so numerous and not even remotely interrelated. The only common denominator among these interests are my fascination in exploring theories, explanations, and creative processes.

I’ve read many career books (What Color is your Parachute) and have taken many, many personality tests (Myerrs-Briggs). Still need more help. Thanks!

July 30, 2008 • Tags: Free Time, Military Campaigns, Theology • Posted in: Military Career • 5 Comments

(Submitted by: cdaddyperfect)


I am changing careers. When I got out of the military things haven’t gone as smoothly as I hoped for. Help!

July 30, 2008 • Tags: Career, Changing Careers • Posted in: Military Career • 6 Comments

(Submitted by: MC)


I am starting from scatch-almost. I have no degree, but iam a certified personal trainer. I would like to do some research related things that have to do with health and fitness. I would really like to work for the government or military, what would that job title be labeled?
What fields of study should i focus on?
What are the best colleges in IL for this career?
without joining the military as i am ineligible

July 29, 2008 • Tags: Focus, Researcher, Scatch • Posted in: Military Career • 1 Comment

(Submitted by: Jane D)


Going into the military, I’ve been advised to learn how to mesh my military and civillian lives. I’m not quite sure what that means or how to do it. I wanted to keep career separate from work, but…I’m not sure.

July 20, 2008 • Tags: Mesh, Military Life • Posted in: Military Career • 12 Comments

(Submitted by: richter_abend@ymail.com)


any jobs dealing with animals, especially mammals. Any military, but I’m looking into the ARMY, but any other will be great. Just post a list of the jobs, thanks in ahead ^_^

July 18, 2008 • Tags: Animals, Military Jobs, Zoology Jobs • Posted in: Military Career • 6 Comments

(Submitted by: joshua g)


Im a 23 yrld recent college grad with an art history degree and a desire to become an archaeologist however my college loans, as well as other bills, are looming over my head. I wish to attend graduate school as soon as possible and have been considering the military for a stepping stone to pursue my desired career and help pay for it. Would anyone happen to know any info about which would be best suited for me? Inevitably its up to me, i know, i just can’t rely on the recruiters because i can’t get a straight answer out of any. I just want the best and quickest route to reach my goal(archaeology). I have found info about the navy having an underwater archaeology branch however the recruiters do not know anything about it. Any help?
Just thought id thanks those that have offered advice so far….in response to a few of the answers, i am aware of the commitment and responsibility the military calls for….im not the military kinda guy, im an extremely liberal person who’s into art, writing, etc. and the recruiters seemed to be put off by that….the bills and loans just will not wait and graduate school will not pay for itself…also, im not looking to teach, i want to be out on the field, exploring, discovering…which is another aspect of the military that has caught my eye….im trying to weigh all my options to make the best possible decision for my future

July 9, 2008 • Tags: College Loans, Navy, Options • Posted in: Military Career • 11 Comments

(Submitted by: enigma6981)


I would like to have a career flying. The private sector seems very expensive. So I am looking for other alternatives. I know that to fly in the military you have to be an officer which requires a four year degree. I am starting college in the fall and I am 27 years old. Any advice would help!

June 26, 2008 • Tags: Flight Training, Fly, Private Sector • Posted in: Military Career • 2 Comments

(Submitted by: Snickers)


does a medic in the military have to go through physical training and combat training? I am considering a career in the medical field, and I plan to use funds from the military, and they require working in the military as a medic in return.
Okay, what about a surgeon in the military?

June 21, 2008 • Tags: Career, Medical Plan, Physical Training • Posted in: Military Career • 8 Comments

(Submitted by: arkainisofphoenix)


I’m planning to join the Navy in about a year or so, but right now i’m trying to convince my mom to give me her blessing. I know it’s my decision but I’d really like my mom’s support on this. I want to ask you guys who have military experience that it looks good on the resume if you served? I plan to be an engineer (probably aerospace or industrial, not sure which quite yet) and I wanted to know if military experience will benefit. Can you guys give me personal stories on how it helped you in your career also? Thank you

June 1, 2008 • Tags: Engineer, Military Experience, Military Resume • Posted in: Military Career • 15 Comments

(Submitted by: JEM)


It can be anything….relationships, education, deployments, etc
Good one Dillion and Blaster
wrecking….LOL

May 30, 2008 • Tags: Advice, Lol, Relationships Education • Posted in: Military Career • 14 Comments

(Submitted by: John S)


I have the symptoms and they seem to be in line with how I feel and what happens to my body.

Can that be a qualifier for the military?
PNH=peripheral nerve hyperexcitability

May 28, 2008 • Tags: Career, Peripheral Nerve • Posted in: Military Career • 1 Comment

(Submitted by: SOF09)


Have you been in the military, if so what branch, and would you suggest it as a career option?
Also, what were the average salary ranges of those in your division?
Does the training you had in the military carry over into your regular life?
If you were to choose between college or military which would you have chosen?

May 25, 2008 • Tags: Average Salary Ranges, Career Option, Military Career • Posted in: Military Career • 3 Comments

(Submitted by: dave)


I am an electronics tech in the us navy and i have been in almost one year. I have been married three years and have one child. I have the desire to get in to an officer program but would like some feedback…Dave

May 16, 2008 • Tags: Desire, Feedback, Officer Program • Posted in: Military Career • 6 Comments

(Submitted by: not Prince Hamlet)


Right now military service and nursing are the only careers I can think of where you’re guaranteed a decent wage. Yes, soldiers aren’t paid well, but they have free housing and medical care.

May 16, 2008 • Tags: Career, Medical Care, Military Service • Posted in: Military Career • 15 Comments

(Submitted by: Michael F)


Instead of just enlisting in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or the Marines, I have a specific job in mind. How could I be employed as an interrogator in one of our ’secret’ torture camps in Albania (where the US military legally tortures people, since Albanian law doesn’t prohibit it). As for my pertinent job-related experience, I have:
1. Some experience conducting interviews.
2. Experience with pulling legs off of insects as a kid, and also with gutting fish.

*While I don’t have any specific experiene with torturing people, I feel that the two items described above could be effectively combined.

Also, who should I send my resume to?

May 16, 2008 • Tags: Albanian Law, Conducting Interviews, Us Military • Posted in: Military Career • 7 Comments

(Submitted by: daniel e)


i want the 15q air traffic controller job and the student loan repayment program from the army. how do i deal with them if they dont give me what i want? I have all the credentials, ASVAB score, and eduactation needed for me to qualify. how do i make it clear to them that i wont take anything less without them laughing at me and sending me home?
i havent enlisted yet

May 14, 2008 • Tags: Credentials, Job, Score • Posted in: Military Career • 10 Comments

(Submitted by: Micaela)


I have always thought about joining the military..Branch of choice is the coast guard.My main concern is if military life makes it difficult for woman to eventually have a”normal life” outside of their career.
I would like anyone to share their insights or experiences because I would love to make a career out of it but at the same time I know somewhere down the future i would like to do the whole marriage and kids, etc…

May 10, 2008 • Tags: Experiences, Military Branch, Woman • Posted in: Military Career • 4 Comments

(Submitted by: Charles B)


If so why and if not why not?

May 8, 2008 • Tags: Career, Infantry • Posted in: Military Career • 14 Comments

(Submitted by: pink luver)


I have to do a three page report about julius caesar. we can write about anything in his life but not his whole life. i decided to write about his military career.

id would like just all the note about his military career up till his death!

10 points for best answers!!!

May 6, 2008 • Tags: Caesars, Julius Caesar, Military Id • Posted in: Military Career • 1 Comment

(Submitted by: spicnhotti16)


I’m either joining the air force or navy and I’m wanting to be a coroner. I don’t know how I would train for that, do you have any ideas? Would I just train for medical like a nurse while in the military and study to be a coroner in college?

May 1, 2008 • Tags: Career, Joining The Air Force, Nurse • Posted in: Military Career • 4 Comments

(Submitted by: jbd89)


Is being a public affairs officer in the military, the navy specifically a good career path?