What happens if boards don't think I'm a match for any AOC (AMEDD Direct Commission)?

Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 04:15:58 -0400

I'm a civilian highly interested in direct commission into the AMEDD Reserve. I'm particularly interested in 71B (Biochemistry), and formally qualify per Army website requirements, but don't have much experience in this subfield - my background is in pure synthetic chemistry (Master's in Chemistry).

If this goes through to boards and they see I don't really qualify for this AOC, do I have a shot at AMEDD direct commission for another AOC? I don't have the credentials for nursing, physician, or other clinical-type positions. I also saw a few posts (several years old) that stated 71B has very few slots available per year. I'm less confident about applying if I can't find a good match for my skill sets; I have too much respect to waste recruiter time and mine putting my packet together.

I brought this up to my local AMEDD recruiter who I just recently spoke to for a first meeting, and he seemed very unconcerned that he wouldn't be able to find a fit for me.

I'm still unclear about how the whole process works; my recruiter laid out a timeline, but I didn't get much terminology, and the details are still a bit fuzzy. Thanks so much for any help.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 2:34 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 14:34:10 -0400

I would advise you to apply for both biochemistry and 71E. If you have your MT meet the requirements

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2018 11:08 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 23:08:55 -0400

I'm a current 71B on active duty and here's what I can tell you about the process. First off, without a Ph.D. already in hand, it's going to be an uphill battle. Not saying it's impossible, but as you mentioned in your post, we're already a small AOC. Do you have any background in biochemistry? Pure synthetic chemistry seems like you'd be very limited in the breadth of possibilities in the AOC. Familiarity in molecular biology techniques (PCR, NGS, etc) and mass spectrometry are essential, especially on initial entry.

Not being selected for biochemistry shouldn't block you from applying for other AOCs. There are several positions in the AMEDD field that do not require this high level of specialization and should be a good match for your background. Have you talked with your recruiter about 72D?

Please let me know if you have any other questions and I'll help as best I can.