Considering joining the Coast Guard...feedback please

As a 20-yr Coast Guard retiree (BM), I'll throw my two bits in on this one. Since you're already going through the time/energy to get your bachelor's, don't even think about going enlisted unless you don't have a choice (need a job asap). Don't get me wrong, I was enlisted my entire career, but you can make a damn sight more money going the OCS (officer candidate school) route in the end. Getting-in wise, you'll most likely have a longer wait, but that's something you'll have to figure out via a recruiter. I'm not saying I appreciated--or even gave a damn about--most of the officers I encountered in my career because I didn't. What I am saying is that there is some truth to the old saying that "the one who dies with the most toys wins" and money doesn't suck. Yes, I saw things, did things and learned things that no officer ever will, but I got paid squat to do so. Your call.

 

I wholeheartedly agree that this is the BEST way to go, but I'm trying to look at it from their perspective. As a career BM, I had the opportunity to work with/over a lot of college grads whose recruiters convinced them that it was in their best interest to go enlisted because they (the recruiter) had quotas to fill when the exact opposite was true. I ended up with people who didn't feel they 'belonged' on deck with the rest of the scrubs which made my job that much harder. On the other hand, I've been retired now for nearly 10 years and I'm seeing much more clearly now just how little what I did in my career matters on the outside. That's where my "toys" comment came from.

 

You guys are awesome and full of info. Very much appreciated! OCS seems pretty stiff with competition. Any idea what can I can do to maybe enhance my chances of getting in?

 

That's what I meant, they are the two largest rates so he would have a good chance at getting an operational unit and conducting LE. Meant BM and MKs are at most units, including TACLETs and MSSTs.

True that most do not follow the LE path, but if you want and have a desire to, the odds are in your favor. Just depends on how motivated you are to take that on in addition to your normal duties.

 

Sorry to take so long to get back to you on this.

Currently im an SN (seaman E-3) at a small boat station. I came in as an E-3 because I have an AA degree.

I start my day checking boat outfit ensuring that the boats are ready for missions. The rest of my day consists of station upkeep (cleaning, painting ect.). Then we do training on the boats practicing towing, man overboards, anchoring and emergency procedures for equipment failures.

I work 2 days on, 2 days off with sliding weekends so I only work 15 days a month.

 

Hmm. Well I got some time to consider my possibilities. Seems like it maybe awfully difficult to get into OCS anytime soon. If I did join, I want somethign that is going to provide me real world and career experience for when I become law enforcement.

 

I should of added right now, I am working on my BTM (boarding team member) qualification which directly translates to Law Enforcement. I will soon be assisting Boarding Officers in safety inspections, proper emergency equipment; flares, life jackets ect.

This is pretty similar to stuff local PD would be doing, although we're on the water

 

That seems cool. And you went in enlisted? HOw long have you been in?

 

Yes I'm enlisted. I have been in for about 9 months now.

 

How do ya like it so far? And where are ya currently stationed?

 

I enjoy my job a lot. Just like any job there are frustrating/long days. I however, wouldn't pick any other job. I joined when I was 22 after working other jobs and being in the CG gives me by far the most satisfaction. I'm currently stationed on the Washington coast. I miss the sun, but it is beautiful out here.

Funny story actually, I got pulled over driving home a couple weeks ago by the Washington State Patrol and the Trooper asked how much longer until I got out because he wanted to offer me a job after he found out I was in the CG.

If you want to do Law Enforcement, I can't see a better route.

 

Sounds cool man. What did you want to do in the CG when you first enlisted?

 

I specifically joined to get real world experience to be a police officer. I'm now looking at possibly joining Customs and Boarder Patrol when I get out.

haha sounds pretty familiar eh?

 

Ha sure does. Maybe you mentioned it already, but when you went in did you have a degree? Or were you a SN right away?

 

There are multiple ways to come in as an E3: Eagle scout, degree, enlist for 6 years instead of 4 (maybe not now). If you're serious about it give your local recruiter a call and set up an appointment. Biggest thing is to keep up on it because guarantee you want in more than the CG needs you in, unless you meet certain criteria. Don't get disappointed if they tell you they don't have any spots open, just weather the storm and be persistent. If you have any other questions don't hesitate to shoot me a PM.

 

Wow, I guess I didn't realize how few individuals they took. Any idea what I could do to increase chances of getting in?