Hi all,
I searched the forums and didn't find a complete answer on what I'm looking for so I figured I would start a new thread. I apologize like this if one has come up before and I just missed it.
At any rate, I am a recent college graduate and was hoping to move on to the regional airlines. However, given the state of things at the moment that isn't going to happen anytime soon.
I have been considering the military for some time now, and was in NROTC for 2yrs. however when the time came to get the scholarship, I was told that while I was qualified, the Navy was losing officers and I would not get it. I went on to get my CFI/CFII/MEI and have been instructing for some time but would still love to fly in the military, particularly the Navy. I was wondering if some of you who have been there would mind sharing your opinion with me and answering a few questions. My ultimate goal is to become a Captain at a major airline (as n00b-ish as it sounds to say...) and I have yet to give up on that part. I am trying to consider different routes to get there.
Did you guys find it worth it? I know there is far more to being an officer than just the aviating and I understand that there is no guarantee that I will be selected for aviation should I go through with it. Also, what are the selection criteria for OCS/SNA? I am not the best at book learning, and my GPA was not awful but it was nothing stellar (2.6 overall). Would past aviation experience help at all? I certainly wouldn't plan to brag about it, nor would I expect it to be easy, in fact I know there is a lot I have yet to learn. How did you guys get through the training? What can one do to maximize chances of getting fixed wing? I'm not hell bent on pointy nose or anything but if at all possible I would prefer maximize my chances to stay fixed wing. Again, I know there are to guarantees, and the needs of the service come first.
What was your QOL like in the Navy? I know there are long stretches away from home, and I understand that is not easy. Was it worth it in the end?
I appreciate any help, and advice you all have to pass along and thank you all for your service. Take care, and clear skies!