Need advice from military officers

I am graduating from graduate school in June, and I am trying to figure out what I want to do with my life. My field is criminology and investigation, and I currently work for the federal government as a criminal analyst, but I don't think that is what I want do forever. In fact, I know it is not and I have no idea what I want to do as a career.

So I looked into the Military and I qualify for the Direct Commission Officer programs in intelligence because of my Master's degree and work experience. I am applying to be a Navy Reserves Intelligence Officer (Active duty isn't accepting since the military is downsizing, I want the experience and the training, plus they will allow me to learn a foreign language which will present new opportunities and hopefully dictate a future direction for me).

So here is my question, I am writing a personal statement and I am wondering what topics I need to make sure I talk about. Leadership is an obvious one, but I figured I could get some good advice from you all. Let me know what you think. I appreciate all input.

Edit: The main premise is "why do I want to join the navy and why should the navy accept me"

 

I'm an Officer in the Air Force and all statements I have made have stated how and why I want the position and how I feel I can benefit the Air Force. Without sounding too arogant, explain the benefit you can bring and why you desire to go to that service. Leadership is key of course, but I have put in letters how "I look forward to my success and helping others succeed." This has appeared to be beneficial to me, in fact, we will see once again in February how my requests do against another chapter in the AF. Again, what you can provide, why you want to, why you will do well and maybe throw in how you can help others. I wish you luck, the military was one of the greatest decisions I have made. It's challenging, ever changing, and exciting. Good luck.

 

As a Naval Officer, I remember writing the exact same statement. I just talked about leadership, serving my country, and professional development.

 

Got the PM, and I sent you one back.

 

I was wondering if I should include something about giving back to the country or serving the country. I mention something about making my family proud, but I didn't put anything in there in my draft because I felt like it was too "cheesy". But I have no idea, and that is why I am asking for direction.

 

I think you understand as a Reserve Officer, you will answer our Nation's call & provide value to your local community when not officially on duty, ie. not drilling or on official orders. A Reservist lifestyle, once your initial Basic Officer education is completed, is different from say an Active Duty Officer. Juggling two careers, possibly a family, immediate family responsibilites, military training is huge. You have to be ready, reliable, and willing to make sacrifices at all levels.

I would definitely include something about your values, for example, integrity, duty, respect, what is important to you & that goes in line with what you are saying about serving your country. I do not think it is cheesy at all, not everybody can juggle the demands of being Active Duty or the demands of being a Reservist.

I was a Signal Officer retired in 07 and finished my career working as a liason officer with the National Guard on many Joint Ops.

Best of Luck to you.

 

DIDDO all the above.

I can relate to Simons Mom as being a Reserve Signal Officer.

 

Thanks for the input. I think the hardest thing for me to write this is just not knowing what to include. The instructions are so vague that I am trying to figure out what the review committee are looking for. This definitely gives me some insight...