Ok I have took the test, have the physical donE and everything, I leave for boot camp may 27th, my recruiter said I qualify for both DC and MK A-schools and if I dont want to do any of them I can strike a job, what would you advise me to do, go to an A-school or try to srtike as like a BM or something?
These tests can be helpful, but they aren't the end-all for every situation. Find an area that gives you great satisfaction and do it the very best you can. I did this and was very happy, but don't get so caught up in the job you neglect to take the advancement courses... this too is a part of the job: that part, I neglected. Regretfully.
You might want to get in the field and see what each rate does before you make up your mide. It isn't imposible to change rates but it is hard. I have done it and it does set you back in the long term.
As far as going to school I would say thats the best way to go. You only have one job at school. To learn your rate. When you are striking its not the only thing your doing, your standing watch, mess cooking, painting, doing DC PQS, and trying to find time to strike can make for a long *** day.
Sounds like you are not sure what you want to do in the Coast Guard. I would recommend that you get through basic, report to your unit, and then make a decision on what rating really interest you. Good luck in basic. MK1
I agree with Billy. You're going to Boot Camp in 2 days. You can't make a decision right now about which rate to be anyway, so relax and enjoy your last couple of days before you leave. You will learn a lot about all of the rates at Cape May, so that will give you more information to let you make a more informed decision. As Billy said, you will get to see all these jobs up close and personal after you get out into the field. Relax, stay out of trouble, and don't be late on your ship day.
Just to let you know, not all rates are strikeable. Like everyone else has said, get through boot camp, get to your unit, and then make a decision on what rating really interests you. Good Luck. Oh, and don't do anything stupid before and after boot camp. And yeah, don't EVER be late!
