Originally Posted by BeatNavy

So many variables. Impossible to know your quals, what the interest rate is in the unit from other applicants, how many slots they have or will have, whether or not you'll pass an FC1, etc.

When I was rushing, most people told me to apply to as many places as possible, and eventually I could transfer if I wanted to. Most guys I met rushing were applying to a lot of units. I know a couple who applied to one unit and got picked up. I know some who enlisted first, and eventually got picked up. I know some who enlisted first and never got picked up and were rushing other units as their time was coming up. So it's all over the map.

Hard to give advice based on your unique situation, and you are better suited to make the decisions for yourself since we know nothing about you, your unit, etc. There is one fighter unit I rushed that used to only hire from within the unit. They had a really high washout rate for the guys they sent to UPT, and so they changed the policy to accept external applicants. So that could happen right after you enlist and are working on your degree. Commanders change every couple years, and so do their hiring practices/policies. You're 5 years out from having a degree...a lot can change in that time. Will you be able to get your degree while doing your guard job if you enlisted?

Enlisting in a unit can absolutely help get you hired to fly there, or potentially be required. It can give the bros a chance to get to know you. It gives you more access to the unit and its people than any external applicant. It can also hurt your chances if they don't like you or if you don't fit their mold. Lurk or ask on baseops.net forums and get some more opinions. Good luck.