How reasonable is it to pursue a civilian degree while working as a recruiter?

2022-03-14T22:55:13-04:00

I'm considering pursuing recruiting (ARNG) as my next career move. However, I'm also considering attending law school to eventually become a JAG officer and civilian attorney. I found a program that has a night school option (9-12 credits per semester, including a summer semester). The schedule looks something like class on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights from 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM. I've been discouraged by those in the know from following this path because recruiting is such a tough job. I do understand, but I also don't have a family to take care of and I feel like the time to grind is now. And before anyone asks, I just graduated from BLC and hit 3 years TIS so I meet the minimum requirements for my state to become a recruiter.

Further context: I don't want to stop working altogether to go back to school and the Guard is already providing me SLRP (recruiting appears to be the only AGR job that doesn't cancel my SLRP). Plus, I've decided to leave my civilian career, and being an E5 pays more than being a teacher. Basically, this plan makes a ton of sense in my life if it can be pulled off. I've also always been really good in school, in the "for what it's worth" category.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Mar 14 at 2022 11:08 PM

2022-03-14T23:08:07-04:00

It is all time management.
If you want it bad enough you can do anything

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 12:05 AM

2022-03-15T00:05:30-04:00

I suggest making sure you can finish the degree program wherever you might be PCS'd to.

Remember, if you continue a career in the military a degree requirement is binary, and only that you HAVE a degree (if required) not the pedigree behind it. Harvard, and your local stage college check the same box on an OCS application (for example).

My point, priority should be managed to pursue something you can finish, and secondarily other attributes.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:31 AM

2022-03-15T01:31:06-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member When I was discharged, my goal was to obtain a good job, earn my degree, and work for the Space Program. I found a high paying job as an operator at a chemical plant. I worked shift work, so I would take both day and evening classes. It usually worked out that the night classes were behind the day classes, so I would receive the same material twice. I obtained my degree in five years, and then quit my operator job to begin work on the Space Program. During those five years, I was at school, at work, studying or sleeping. Being organized and using your time wisely is a must. With discipline and the right attitude, anything can be accomplished.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 6:01 PM

2022-03-15T18:01:12-04:00

Recruiting can easily be a 60-80 hr a week job.
Most folks in law school who are taking it seriously barely have time for a part time job.

Response by SFC Rodney Platt made Apr 10 at 2022 6:44 PM

2022-04-10T18:44:35-04:00

Recruiters do not work a normal 9-5 work day. So night school may not be feasible at times. Did recruiting for 3 years and worked over 60 hours a week