Are the needs of the Army driving MOS choices or did you pick your MOS?

When I joined I picked my MOS but I was guided to the choice before of a large bonus offered for it. I wanted something in the Field of Technology so Signal Support Systems Spec was something I liked anyways.

I originally picked 68W when I enlisted. I was able to get a slot but did not enjoy the field. I was a 68W in an MP unit and found I enjoyed being an MP better. I re-classed and still enjoy my MOS. It has worked out well for me.

During OCS, the Army assigned my branch. I submitted a "top ten" wish list as a part of my OCS application packet, in which the Army assigned me to #10 on my list during "branch week". To bad OML didn't exist at that time. It worked out for the better though, once I became a promotable 1LT, I applied for Civil Affairs and I was selected to attend CA assessment and selection, which I passed and all subsequent schooling. So in short, when I commissioned, the Army chose my branch for me - when I had the opportunity, I chose a branch I felt I was better suited for and would benefit the Army more so.

CPT (Join to see) I picked my MOS of 11B back in October 1974 when I signed my enlistment contract. Of course the assignment of that MOS was dependent of me meeting all requirements. there was a$2500 bonus at that time which was a lot of money for a young private in 1974.
In 1980 while a cadet at USMA, West Point I was designated as an 11A which was my second choice. that too was dependent on me completing IOBC which i graduated from in December 1980.
In 1989 I was trained as an ORSA based on my desires.
In the late 1990's I served as a Logistics Staff Officer in the Pentagon because the Army needed me to serve in that role. From then on I served in the specialty the Army needed

When I joined I didn't really think there as anything other than Infantry. I knew that there was other jobs but I didn't understand why someone would anything but infantry. For me it was the heart of the Army. My recruiter didn't have much of an issue with that.