This seems like the best place for this; sorry if it's not.
I'm a 17-year-old in DEP, shipping 20080709 (but I'm trying to get shortlisted), with a 92 AFQT and 137 DLAB. I screwed up and got caught shoplifting (don't ask /why/, I still can't figure it out) and ended with a misdemeanor, "Criminal Attempt theft under $500". It turns out I was within the bounds of a lesser charge, "Theft under $50", so I got that reduced. My recruiter pulled some strings (he knows the guy in charge of the back end of the city court system), got me off with a bit of community service, and generally saved my butt.
I can't have a security clearance because of this. This screws me over for crypto and IT, my top choices. I enlisted as an AV, planning to switch my rating when they (re)rate at RTC. The Navy liaisons and PNs at MEPS say I'll have to wait over a year to re-rate, but recruiters say I'll have no problem getting CTI or IT because the people at boot camp have more waiver power.
I'd like to get a third opinion on this. Do you think I have a good chance at getting what I want considering that my only offence other than a traffic ticket comes off quite minor?
Thanks in advance, I'd imagine you're all quite helpful.
do NOT expect to be allowed to change rates at RTC. period. Just because CTI is in great demand does NOT MEAN that you will be granted any waivers or be able to get a Clearance this soon after the incident.
