Posted on Jul 15, 2019
SPC Firefighter
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I am separating from active duty in only four months and am confused what my path should be. I'm only 22 if that helps in any capacity. So every male in my family was a firefighter and loved it. In my state they also make a very good living, extremely well even. The benefits are excellent too and the test is in april 2020 and only happens every two years. This would be great because I could start working earlier and make a lot of money to jumpstart my life. On the other hand, I love college and do classes while active in the military. I have about 30-35 credits right now. I could also use my GI Bill and go full time for business as I would also try to go to Harvard BS for an MBA if this was my path. I'm just not sure what the smarter choice is? I would also love to work in an office setting as well. I know fireman can do school as well due to their schedule, but I would probably just pursue on or the other, not both. Thank you!
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Responses: 13
LTC Jason Mackay
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SPC (Join to see) I defer to SFC (Join to see) comments about a plan and planning.

It may not be either or. You may be required to obtain an Associates or Bachelors in Fire Science or related field to compete to be a firefighter. Ensure you understand the requirements for your state and localality. Understand what is minimum requirements, what is "competitive", and how long you'll be in The process. Not everyone gets picked up, or they sit on an order of merit type list.
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SFC Retention Operations Nco
SFC (Join to see)
5 y
This is one of the hardest thing for me to explain to Soldiers who tell me their plan is to go into civil service. Most of them haven't talked to the locality they want to be hired in, or even know which locality they want. They haven't looked at the hiring process, length of time, how far out they can start it, what makes them competitive, or the selection and attrition rates. For anyone who's goal it is to go into civil service, I highly suggest you start the process a year out.
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CSM Darieus ZaGara
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You have to follow your dream. Decide what you see yourself doing most king term. Since your brothers work Fire, do a few day ride along, I am sure it has been a while. Anyway, we cannot decide for you both are solid plans, it is truly about how you see your life in the future. Good luck and thank you for your service.
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Jenn Moynihan
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Tough question but if you’ve the credits already I’d say forge on ahead. Finish the bachelor’s at least.

My nephew, who had a Congressional letter for the Navy, wasn’t able to go in due to his hip. He is a full-time student (a year younger than you) at UVA & a part-time volunteer fire-fighter in Virginia.
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CW4 Craig Urban
CW4 Craig Urban
5 y
I could have went to west point. My uncle Matt Urban would have vouched for me
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