Hello
@ABMD! I have a question:
What is the TIS limit for prior service members applying to be a Reserve SUPPO?
You should obtain the Program Authorization from MyNavyHR for a thorough understanding of the qualifications for Reserve SC. You should also scour these forums for information on what you may be up against when applying. To get you started, here are the qualifications beginning with age:
4. Qualifications:
a. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
b. Age: Applicants must be at least 19 years old and less than 42 years old at the time of commissioning. Prior qualifying service will be considered for year-for-year credit up to age 52.
c. Education: Bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree from an accredited college or university.
(1) Grade point average (GPA): Cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
(2) Major: Degrees in business or science, technology, engineering and mathematics concentrations are preferred, but not required. Degrees in other fields may be considered if applicants possess suitable experience in leadership and management.
I reached out to others in this forum to gain an idea if I'll be eligible to qualify as a SUPPO and it has to a conclusion that unfortunately that I'm way below average when it comes to applying for that position. On paper, I'm outgunned by most of the applicants in this forum.
I don’t believe that anyone is trying to discourage you from applying. However, most will give you the honest truth. Just a quick glance at your chosen major, I would make a suggestion to change it to business. Reserve SC is a really competitive program with previously having selected 37 out of 94 applicants. From what I've gathered, 11 of those applicants have advanced degrees and an extensive background in Supply. 5 of those selectees had a background in one of the Lines of Operation-Contracting. So yes, unfortunately, you are outgunned by most selectees on paper.
Could you give me your honest feedback and insight on the possibility that I could qualify to be a SUPPO or any Reserve Officer designator I could qualify for based on my current stats?
It's a big blow to my self-esteem when I'm told that I may not be as promising enough or eligible as my competition to be considered to be an officer. I can take constructive criticism but sometimes I just want to hear a voice that tells me to keep pushing no matter how many times I failed or no matter how bleak the circumstances are. If I can have that one voice that pushes me to my max potential, I could beat the odds no matter how big. Just need someone to mentor me throughout the process.
What feedback you may have received is about as honest as it comes. Other designators are going to be just as competitive because of the applicant pool that applies every year. Reserve Officers usually have advanced degrees (Masters), certifications, 10-15 years of working experience in a related field, and leadership activities. I can attest that you are not the only applicant that has felt this way so don't let it make you feel uneasy. Yes....keep pushing no doubt. I just wouldn't expect for others to tell you anything other than the truth about how things work. Go back through the DCO Supply forum and check out what qualifications others have had. I was selected on the last round and can tell you this: I have an MBA and am due to complete a DBA in the next year or two. I have an extensive background in Supply Chain and Acquisition/Contracting 15 years. I've managed budgets and contracts with values of over half a billion dollars. I am in the same company of those who own/manage their own companies, CEO's, CFO's, etc. Some are prior service and may be making the transition from enlisted to officer.
Don't be discouraged. Just ensure that you put your best foot forward in putting together a competitive kit. I'm sure when you speak to an recruiter, they will tell you how competitive the programs are and whether or not you qualify for other designators. Good luck.