Navy or Coast Guard OCS?

Question

I'm three semesters away from earning my Bachelors Degree and I've been thinking about going into OCS. I've thought about joining before, but that was right after high school (enlisted). 

I've narrowed my choices down to two branches: Navy & Coast Guard But I still can't decide which one I would be a better suit for. I just want to make sure I make the right decision. This is a big commitment and I don't want to screw up.

1. I speak three languages -- English, Spanish & French, and can teach myself a fourth if I had enough time. 

2. I have technical competency -- I'm currently earning a degree in computer information systems and I've taught myself basic programming / scripting in the following languages: HTML, CSS, C#, ASP.NET, Visual Basic & Python. I know how to run Windows and Linux systems, and I can build basic databases in My SQL Server. I also know the basic networking technology and security protocols. None of this is anything exceptional, but its a solid foundation I can build upon in my career. 

3. I have 5+ years experience doing the 9-5 grind. I don't like it. I really really REALLY don't like it.  

4. I want to travel, but I would like to have home based opportunities as well.

5. I'm physically fit. I lost 40 lbs in two years by going vegan and running almost every day. My current run time is 1.5mi / 12:45. My goal is to get that down to 12 minutes even by the end of the summer. 

Based on these five points: which branch would be right for me?

And to anyone who tries to say "We don't need you, you should've enlisted earlier" I tried to enlist on two separate occasions. The second time I made it as far as MEPS, scored a 98 on the ASVAB but was turned away for weight problems. I also wasn't doing it for the right reasons. I'm healthier now, I have a better head on my shoulders, and I want to do something with my life that means something.

crnd · Accepted Answer

Remember that you don't have a "choice" until you have offers.  While you sound like you could be a good candidate, USCG OCS selection rates are well south of 10%, and while the Navy might be somewhat higher, it ain't easy either.  Regardless of what you think you might choose if you had a choice, you don't have a choice yet.  Apply to both.  Only if you get accepted by both is there a choice.

Regarding which one if you do have a choice - it's mostly about mission set.  Look at the missions of each service, see which one is more appealing to you.  You're the only one that can answer that, no one here.

But first things first......you have to have offers from both for the question to be relevant.  Apply to both!

Good luck!

Armed with Inkstick · Answer

For the Navy...

So what's your GPA right now, and how'd you do in Calc/Calculus-based Physics?  Also, leadership positions?  Your major's good as a starting point, but it's just a starting point.   

Your best bet is to talk to Officer Recruiters and see which one might be willing to take you.  You're talking about arguably the two most difficult OCS programs to get into.  It's really going to be more of a factor of "who will let you in" vice which one you want to go to.

Mrsjvb · Answer

1:utterly useless for Officers

2: sounds like you'd be  viable for IWO or IP, depending on your GPA( Navy)

3: then what makes you think you will like the 14-18 hour  grind?!

4: needs of the military.   if that means you never leave the BWA triangle and spend 20 years between  NIOC MD, NIOC Suitland and the Pentagon, so be it. 

OCS selection boards are running at about  15-20% right now.  IWO and IP generally hold one board a year.

Captain S · Answer

I really cannot help you narrow your options any further; Naval tradition is strong within both of these fine, distinguished branches of service, and you have an excellent skill set to offer and build upon. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors, future ensign.

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Navy or Coast Guard OCS?

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