This has probably been asking already but the search function wasn't working for me.

I am wondering what are the chances of you getting the rating you want after boot camp.

I am interested in either being a Public Affairs Specialist or a Yeoman.

Is there a great chance that I would get one of those?

Thanks for your help.

You can have any rating that you want if your ASVAB score qualifies you for it. I believe to be a PA you have to also go through a screening process for it.

Good luck.

The "screening process" mentioned above entails looking cool in this hat.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: XShipRider,

ASVAB Requirement =
PA: VE + AR = 109 W/ A MINIMUM VE OF 54
PA-A school wait = 12-18mos
Next classes = 27MAR08, 28APR08, 24MAY08
There are 32 currently on the list and several delayed because they are waiting for screening.
Training Available:
You will receive entry-level training in an intensive 12-week course held at the Defense Information School in Ft. Meade, MD. Further training in photojournalism, digital imagery, editing and design, media relations, crisis communications, and other aspects of the Coast Guard's public affairs programs are also available.

Qualifications:
The ability to communicate with clear, accurate speech and writing is a must. You need an excellent command of the English language and should be able to work effectively in a variety of media and situations. School courses in English, journalism, Web design, speech, photography, and typing are highly desirable. Experience with computers and video is also advantageous. Preferred traits are attentiveness, initiative, creativity, people skills, and poise under pressure.

Hope this helps a little bit !

Well in truth there are only 2 rates in the Coast Guard, Boatswains Mate and passenger. After all you can either be a BM or you can work for one.

Hmmmmm XShipRider, I'm not sure if that hat will fit me

Is there a long wait to be a HS or a Yeoman?

Hope I am not bothering anyone

Thanks for all your help!

rourkOIC, thanks for the details

cutterman8, I guess I am a passenger

This message has been edited. Last edited by: CoastGuard128,

quote:

Well in truth there are only 2 rates in the Coast Guard, Boatswains Mate and passenger. After all you can either be a BM or you can work for one.

Aahh, so very true ... BM is the only rating where you're issued your own clipboard ... and bosun's, well they're known to always have their hand on the wheel.

BUT, there are guys who keep the boat afloat (DC's), there are guys who keep the boat lights on (EM's), there are guys who keep the boat moving (MK's), and there are even guys who tell the bosun which way to go (OS).

So the question is ... do want to accomplish something in your life, or do you need an entourage the size of Britney Spears to get anything done? Because that's what our beloved bosuns are ... the Britney Spears of the Coast Guard. Most have a cuter azz tho ...

quote:

Because that's what our beloved bosuns are ... the Britney Spears of the Coast Guard. Most have a cuter azz tho ...

Obviously SOMETHING has changed since I was in. I did know a BM that had ship's screws tattooed on each butt cheek, but I still didn't think he had a cute butt.

I am a little lost... but I will pretend I know what you are talking about

Sorry, newbie here

quote:

BUT, there are guys who keep the boat afloat (DC's), there are guys who keep the boat lights on (EM's), there are guys who keep the boat moving (MK's), and there are even guys who tell the bosun which way to go (OS).

then when all fails you have the AST's

CoastGuard128,

Every rate in the USCG is just as important as the next. Make your decision and be the best Coast Guardsman you can be !!

quote:

Originally posted by CoastGuard128:
Hmmmmm XShipRider, I'm not sure if that hat will fit me

In jest, of course.

Opinion only: Not that many PAs in the CG. The ones that make it to E-6 and above stick around quite awhile so advancement doesn't come quickly. STRICTLY OPINION.

quote:

Originally posted by XShipRider:

quote:

Originally posted by CoastGuard128:
Hmmmmm XShipRider, I'm not sure if that hat will fit me

In jest, of course.

Opinion only: Not that many PAs in the CG. The ones that make it to E-6 and above stick around quite awhile so advancement doesn't come quickly. STRICTLY OPINION.

Chief, there's some truth to your opinion. I believe there's only about 70 PA's in the whole Coast Guard. Your definetly right about the ones who make it to E-6 and end up staying awhile. My dad is a PACM and has been in 24 years and counting.

quote:

Originally posted by pjennings:

quote:

Originally posted by XShipRider:

quote:

Originally posted by CoastGuard128:
Hmmmmm XShipRider, I'm not sure if that hat will fit me

In jest, of course.

Opinion only: Not that many PAs in the CG. The ones that make it to E-6 and above stick around quite awhile so advancement doesn't come quickly. STRICTLY OPINION.

Chief, there's some truth to your opinion. I believe there's only about 70 PA's in the whole Coast Guard. Your definetly right about the ones who make it to E-6 and end up staying awhile. My dad is a PACM and has been in 24 years and counting.

Yes, a friend of mine who works for the Coast Guard told me that yesterday so I am thinking for along the lines of Health Specialist now.

Thanks for everyone's help so far! You all have been great.

Any more advice/opinions are greatly appreciated.

Advice for HS? During short-arm inspection, smoke a cigar. That'll keep the swabbies from getting too close to ya' ...

quote:

Originally posted by cutterman8:
Well in truth there are only 2 rates in the Coast Guard, Boatswains Mate and passenger. After all you can either be a BM or you can work for one.

Looks like someone needs to spend a little time auditing week 2 to learn the difference between RATING and RATE!

(Known you for how many years? I don't get a lot of chances to bust your chops on the simple stuff, so I am going to take advantage of it!)

quote:

Originally posted by cutterman8:
Well in truth there are only 2 rates in the Coast Guard, Boatswains Mate and passenger. After all you can either be a BM or you can work for one.

That’s funny. It's been a while since I worked for a BM, and when I did, he needed me a lot more than I needed him

CoastGuard128. As stated above you can go any rating you qualify for(and are willing to wait for). Look at everything, talk to people and make your decision on what you think you will be happy doing. 4-6 years is a long time to spend doing something you don't enjoy.

Be Safe.