jrkl is right. If you become an NFO, you are going to have experience with some of the most sophisticated AVIONICS in the world. That will show quite well on the resume. But you do have fly on you own time. Pending on where you're stationed, you might be able to qualify for military discounts on civilian flight instruction. WannaBpilot, just remember that your career won't end just because you can't fly for the military. I have alot of friends that fly for regional airlines right now, and most of them went the civilian way (they just in alot of debt from student loans). The main thing that counts is that you were in the military before. That shows a alot of gratitude amongst the employers. If you become an NFO instead of a pilot, but have alot of civilian flight hours, along with you ratings, you will look just as well walking into an airline interview. The point is, is that you did serve the time in the military. You will see the difference when you get looking for civilian jobs. I have to tell you, even though I don't make it in a flight program, I have alternatives in the service such as NFO, even a gunner on a chopper is fine with me. ****, I will even be a tank commander if all else fails. As long as two things: 1. I get commissioned in the service. That will automatically show up quite well on a resume especially as being an officer (A leader!!!!!) 2. I get a chance to serve for my country. I don't mean to sound too GUN HO, but its another personal achievement in your life. Think about it, if you can survive 13 weeks in marine boot camp, you can be capable of doing just about anything you want to do. But don't let something like not being be able to do exactly what you want to do passify as being a waist of time. Taking a few years to do some service will only work for the best of you. Most government jobs require that you have some military experience. If you can't fly, then find alternatives, explore what else you might find appealing. If there is nothing else you want to do then to fly an F-18 off an aircraft carrier, then you might be putting all you eggs in one basket. Don't do it!!!! Leave room for adjustments, and don't think if you don't get to fly for Marines/Navy that you waisting your time. What else you gonna do!!!!! take advantage of the other things military life has to offer, and plan the rest of life out with ease. I have a year and half left of school before I graduate from college, and I have already planned for other ways to get my flight hours if I can't fly for the military. I'am however; am getting ready to start the process of getting in the military. I'm gonna try my damndest to get into the flight program, but if I can't, I'm still gonna become a Marine for a few years and work on my flight training while I'm active. Thanks for taking the time read this.
