If I start my enlistment process now for the Army Reserves would I run the risk of being sent to AIT mid semester?

2020-01-28T10:58:51-05:00

I am currently attending classes in college until the beginning of May and I am thinking of joining the Army reserves coming from prior service in the Marine Corps. If I start the enlistment process now would I run the risk of being sent to AIT mid semester or do the recruiters and MEPS personnel normally try and help you work around your class schedule? I have an appointment with a recruiter this Saturday but would like to get additional information before hand.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2020 11:07 AM

2020-01-28T11:07:25-05:00

Yes, you will run the risk. But, MEPS will try to accommodate dates that work best for you. It's a roll of the dice.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2020 11:09 AM

2020-01-28T11:09:02-05:00

SGT,

Thank you for your service in the Corps. I am unsure of the Reserves but in the National Guard we had what was called a "Split Option". That way, a soldier could go to basic training one summer, drill for a year in our Recruit Sustainment Program, and then go to AIT the following year. If the Reserves does not offer such, I would inquire about that with the Guard.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2020 11:48 AM

2020-01-28T11:48:41-05:00

I guess it all depends on MEPS and the recruiter, I joined in Jan and did not ge to basic until August.

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Jan 28 at 2020 12:03 PM

2020-01-28T12:03:02-05:00

The little I remember regarding prior service in the reserves, at MEPS you sign up for MOS and am unit. Once you report to your reserve unit, it will be between your training NCO and you to work out the details. Keep in mind that your command team will want to get you qualified ASAP, it will also work with you. Again, that how it worked over 20 years ago during my short gig with the reserves.

Response by 2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2020 1:39 PM

2020-01-28T13:39:13-05:00

They may be able to accomodate and check for various dates. Never hurts to ask.
If you had to go through BCT, I know the process is a bit different to where split ops is offered for students and teachers as long as there is proof to not interfere with school schedule as much as possible.

Response by SPC Jim Johnson made Jan 28 at 2020 2:57 PM

2020-01-28T14:57:04-05:00

I was in the Army Reserves. I had to skip a semester of classes for AIT as soon as I finished I resumed classes and graduated a few months later.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2020 5:10 PM

2020-01-28T17:10:42-05:00

All you have to do is get a letter from your school stating the end date of the semester and it won't be an issue.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2020 9:02 PM

2020-01-30T21:02:53-05:00

Not if you’re split op