Alright-here's the deal. I am new to all this. I have taken the ASVAB test and qualified for the BM position, now my recruiter says they can get me in next spring. Also any other jobs that interest me can have a waiting period of months at a time. Is it normal to just wait for a year after testing? I was setting myself up to leave and now I have to wait another year. That's not right.

This is normal for the Coast Guard.
I am prior service (USCG) and am trying to re-enlist as a reservist. I first approached a recruiter in November of 2007. I am still waiting and will continue to wait until August of 2008, unless I'm not selected at all.
Believe me, you could hop on a bus almost instantly with any other service. The Coast Guard is well worth the wait.
Congratulations in qualifying as BM on your ASVAB!