What are my chances at getting a 70B direct commission?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 05:07:45 -0400

Evening everyone,

I’m currently working with an AMEDD Recruiter to put my 70B direct commission packet together before the first FY19 board in August. I was wondering, at a glance, what my chances of getting selected may be. Here are my stats:

-127 GT Score
-Bachelor’s in Health Services Admin. 3.58 GPA, Cum Laude (2012)
-270 APFT
-3.5 years of active duty service (ongoing) as a 35S2OM7
-3 strong LOR from O-5’s

I feel my lack of experience in Health Admin. may hinder me. I was a banker for Quicken Loans after college for a couple years before I decided to join the Army in the drawdown. I decided to go MI as enlisted until I decided if I wanted to make it a career as an officer.

If there’s anything that you think I can do to increase my odds, please let me know.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 9:43 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 09:43:25 -0400

As a former specialty branch recruiter, I’d say you have a strong packet. I commissioned from an E5 so it can be done; however, some feel that you’re better suited to “cross” after completing ALC and I did complete most of that requirement. So for what it is worth, just put your best foot forward and go with it.

Response by CPT Enrique M. made May 25 at 2018 11:31 AM

CPT Enrique M. — Fri, 25 May 2018 11:31:47 -0400

Well Strong packet.. the issue is that AD/Reserves are over strength big time on 70B's. So don't be surprised that you may not make it.

Have you looked at 70A? or see if they DC into that? just giving options.

Response by SGM Jeffrey Hall made May 25 at 2018 1:29 PM

SGM Jeffrey Hall — Fri, 25 May 2018 13:29:01 -0400

Direct commissions happen, but I think the real path to success is via OCS. The problem with direct commissions are that you go from enlisted to officer without some of the essential suffering that is inherent in that transformation. Also, OCS gives you a group of officers with which you have a common bond. If you are doing this as a full time job, then I think a traditional mode of commissioning is better for your long term potential.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 3:30 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 May 2018 15:30:35 -0400

As with anything else in the military leadership and proven responsibility/sound judgement counts a lot. Highlight those areas whether it be signal or banking. Your basic package looks good but find that one thing that separates you from the pack. Remember that everyone else’s packet looks good as well. A strong letter from you regarding why you want to get the commission might also help.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2018 5:48 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 05:48:23 -0400

Any updates on this?

Response by LTC Stephan Porter made Oct 27 at 2018 4:43 PM

LTC Stephan Porter — Sat, 27 Oct 2018 16:43:31 -0400

Depends on your qualifications now and the current need.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2019 7:56 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 May 2019 07:56:59 -0400

Hey,
Any updates on this? I'm in a similar situation to you, and I'm looking for the best path to commissioning. I have my bachelors in HA, and all of my work experience is in healthcare; nursing, paramedic, administration... That being said I want to be in MS corps. I started an OCS packet, but with OCS you can't do MS anymore. I was wondering what other options were out there, and who you had to talk to for information. Can you do green to gold for a graduate degree? How has your path been going?
Nick

Response by Sgt Gee Are made May 9 at 2019 2:58 AM

Sgt Gee Are — Thu, 09 May 2019 02:58:00 -0400

Complete the six-week Army Direct Commission Course. Good lucl.
https://www.army.mil/article/106407/direct_commission_course_trains_develops_officers

Direct Commission Course trains, develops officers

JAG officers begin DCC with rapelling, obstacles

Response by Brian P made May 9 at 2019 11:11 PM

Brian P — Thu, 09 May 2019 23:11:37 -0400

So did you make it?

Response by LTC Charles T Dalbec made Sep 3 at 2019 4:48 PM

LTC Charles T Dalbec — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 16:48:35 -0400

All cmts do not look good. As Hospital Administration background would greatly assist you in your endeavors. Please advise results Michael and good luck!!

Response by LTC Charles T Dalbec made Apr 14 at 2020 9:53 PM

LTC Charles T Dalbec — Tue, 14 Apr 2020 21:53:20 -0400

Review below what I’m sending and you determine.

This response be OBE because it is one year since you asked the question and you may already know the answer. Please tell me if so.

“Health care administrative assistants are responsible for ensuring the Army's health care facilities run efficiently. As an officer, you'll have the opportunity to enhance your skills in one of the world's largest health care organizations.”