Advice On Becoming a Naval Officer

[CommanderHawg]

Good evening, Gentleman (and possibly Ladies). My name is Drew Rogers. I graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2005 with a BSBA in Marketing Management. Since then, I've dabbled in a few different careers, but have not found any sort of satisfaction with any of them.

I can't help but to be drawn to the prospect of Navy OCS and becoming an officer. My father retired a Commander, and I see the strength and discipline it instilled in him. The leadership ability he learned as an officer in the Navy has carried over to facilitate further success in his post-Navy career. I've thought about following his path many times before, but have not been able to muster the will to finally pull the trigger.

Well, as of today, I'm deciding that I believe this is the right path, without a doubt. I believe a career of this sort will be the only career that I will truly enjoy, and that will set me up for future successes. In other words, I think I need to be hardened a bit in order to have the strength to do well in life. I also enjoy the prospects of seeing the world, and having the most honorable career possible.

Now for the questions. I know I have to take the ASTB, but I plan on doing surface warfare or intelligence, so I'm not required to take all of the examination, correct? Also, are letters of recommendation required? I believe my will is such that I'll be able to convince my officer-recruiter that I'm very motivated and determined, but will it hurt my chances a lot to have waited so long? I have military connections not limited to my family, so should that help?

I'm in decent shape. I'm 6'0, 180 lbs, and can run as much or do as many pushups as I need to for the requirements. I'm well spoken, which I know bodes well for leadership purposes. To an extent, know what to expect from military training from my family and friends in the service.

If someone wouldn't mind, I'd like a rundown of the steps necessary to get me to where I want, and need, to go: Navy OCS. Thank you.

Regards,

Drew Rogers

 

[skim]

step 1. call your recruiter

 

[cfam]

Welcome to the site! The first thing you should do is use the search function. Many people before you have asked exactly the same questions, and I know there are numerous threads about OCS on this site. If you can't find what you're looking for after you look around, then feel free to ask more specific questions.

 

[SWCS242]

For intel you have to take the entire test, for SWO you don't. This was a mistake my recruiter made.

My best advice: talk to a recruiter, be ready to "hurry up and wait," don't get frustrated with all of the paperwork, remember their is a waiver for everything (unless you're a felon...then go army), and most importantly never ever ever give up or quit.

Best of luck!

 

[NTXRockr]

972-714-8300 or 866-628-7327

That's the office numbers for the Dallas NRD. Just tell them you're interested in starting an application for OCS, what you want to do (INTEL, SWO, etc.) and then they'll lead you on from there. If you want PM me and I can give you my OR's info or you'll get assigned to one in the office.

Search around on here for most of your answers and hit up the NRD for the rest of the info and to get started on your app, and anything else that they can't clear up for you we can probably take care of.