Should I become an Army officer or an Air Force officer?

Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 14:33:14 -0400

Got accepted to Rutgers for the next 3 years and plan on doing a 3 year ROTC program as well. Did 1 year a community college and have a 3.2 gpa. I study criminal justice. Do I have a chance for an EA spot for AFROTC without a tech degree. Would eventually want security forces if commissioned, Also Army is one to I’m thinking and can I get active duty with my criminal justice degree. would want Air defense Officer/ mp Officer if Army. Also how different are both branches in terms of officers.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2018 3:11 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 15:11:32 -0400

I think before you determine the branch of service, you really need to get you arms around what you want to do. Send me a message if you want to discuss further.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2018 5:01 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 17:01:39 -0400

Neither...join the Navy! Ok...I'm just being silly there.

Seriously, both services offer many opportunities to candidate officers. Some general advice for any future officer I frequently give it this...pick your service based on your love of that service, not the designator you intend to pursue. Odds are VERY high that whatever you'd "like to be"...your own skills, the needs of the Service and no small amount of "luck" will decide what you actually end up doing.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2018 6:41 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 18:41:22 -0400

I recently did a term of Army ROTC and they were giving extra points (towards your OML) to anyone with a STEM major or anyone with a critical foreign language skill. If they're doing the same thing at your college then maybe it's worth a look. I would also inquire how a CJ major would enhance your future career path. Some colleges are offering Forensic Science minors and Criminal Justice certificates. So you could go the STEM route and supplement your degree with a minor or certificate (corrections technician, criminal justice, etc, etc)

As you're contemplating about security or law enforcement consider all your options. My brother is a state trooper commander and they are constantly looking for LEOs with cybersecurity backgrounds. I also have two cousins who work in HPD and the job is becoming more technical. The FBI recruiter sometimes visits my college and they're looking for people with accounting, sociology or computer backgrounds. Hehe.

Whatever branch you choose think about the duty stations, where you'll end up and what opportunities/schools they present. Last but not least, Army DFAC food is a bio waste hazard. I knew a lot soldiers who ate off post.