Enlistment to USAFA?

I`m 16 and plan on starting my application to Air Force Academy soon would it be significantly easier if I enlist into the Air Force reserves and due boot camp over the summer when I turn 17 and continue my application as a Airmen to increase my chances of attaining a appointment.

I am in the army and applying to West Point. I wouldn't say that enlisting would increase your chances to gain an appointment. Really, it's a gamble because say you don't get in. You would have to continue your initial contract instead of dropping out. I don't know if it's similar to the army but I needed to get my company commanders endorsement. That took some time for him to view my worth ethics and overall soldier performance. Also, it's more than basic training. Straight after you go to your job training and the length of time is dependent on the job. Plus will you be able to complete all that trying and still be able to submit the application? It can take awhile to even go to basic. I enlisted October and didn't leave for basic till the end of February. That's something to think. Plus, bring enlisted might change your perspective on the military. I don't know your story but this is my two cents.

maxpoa525 said:

I`m 16 and plan on starting my application to Air Force Academy soon would it be significantly easier if I enlist into the Air Force reserves and due boot camp over the summer when I turn 17 and continue my application as a Airmen to increase my chances of attaining a appointment.

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For most applicants, this would only hinder your chances.

Now, if you are non-competitive for a normal appointment, it may boost your chances in the long run. Enlisted to academy is not a short process, and you'll need your commander's support. Basically, you'd go through BMT and tech school, and be on station long enough to build a good reputation to get your commander's approval (unless one just gives blind approval). Depending on your AFSC, that may take several years to even be in a good position to apply.
That is just to get one part of the process!

I went this route and I'm at the Academy now.

When I enlisted, I realized that the AFA was an opportunity which I could apply for but should remain on the back burner behind my active duty assignment. My career goals were not built around the presumption that I would receive an appointment.

It is a long process. I believe Raimius said it perfectly. It will only improve your chances significantly if you are not competitive for the Academy as a civilian. I would never have made it in as a civilian. I barely did as an enlisted troop.

If you decide on this route, expect at least a year (most likely 2 or 3) gap in between high school and college and if you aren't close to the age cutoff when you apply, you can almost guarantee a year at the AFA Prep school.

One other thing to place Into your equation is nobody has a crystal ball. Back in August 2001 nobody saw 9/11 occurring now did they? if you go that route it could be that from an ADAF manpower Perspective your wing commander may not support you because they can't afford to release anyone that is deployed with their unit.

You are only 16, you have enough time to strengthen your resume. Make sure you take the SAT ands ACT as often as you can since they super score.

Also if this is a college finance issue, start looking into the AFROTC scholarship too. They will pay for tuition and give a small monthly stipend. You will go ADAF upon graduation....budget willing !

I don't know about you, but I do in fact have a crystal ball

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