I’m honored to have been accepted to both USAFA class of 2024 and USNA class of 2024. I want to go ahead and commit in a timely manner so I can ‘free up a spot’ for another deserving student. Here’s the thing: I know that you should choose an academy based not upon which college you like more, but which branch of service. And here’s where I’m conflicted. I love the Naval Academy, it’s been my dream school forever, but almost every veteran I’ve talked to has told me to go Air Force.
In all ways, Air Force the practical choice. It treats women better, it has better benefits, nicer facilities, and it provides a more stable career if I stay 10 or 15 years and decide I want a family. It allows me to stay on land instead of taking 18-24 month tours.
But on the other hand, I keep telling myself that it’s only a five year commitment after graduation. Five years as a surface warfare officer could give me perspective on life and allow me to travel while I’m young. Graduates from the naval academy proudly tell me that USNA provides the kind of training which prepares you for a successful career outside of the service because of who it shapes you to be- the work ethic, the determination, the drive.
So I guess my question is: for those of you who have graduated the academy, or whose children have, what was their career like after commissioning on a larger scale? How much does a surface warfare officer get to travel? Do they actually get to visit the places they dock at? How frequent is that? How often do Air Force Officers get to travel?
For context: I have no idea if I would be suited to be a pilot, or cyber warfare officer, or any of the other career options so I’m writing this on the assumption I would either be in a support position in the Air Force or a Surface Warfare Officer.
In all ways, Air Force the practical choice. It treats women better, it has better benefits, nicer facilities, and it provides a more stable career if I stay 10 or 15 years and decide I want a family. It allows me to stay on land instead of taking 18-24 month tours.
But on the other hand, I keep telling myself that it’s only a five year commitment after graduation. Five years as a surface warfare officer could give me perspective on life and allow me to travel while I’m young. Graduates from the naval academy proudly tell me that USNA provides the kind of training which prepares you for a successful career outside of the service because of who it shapes you to be- the work ethic, the determination, the drive.
So I guess my question is: for those of you who have graduated the academy, or whose children have, what was their career like after commissioning on a larger scale? How much does a surface warfare officer get to travel? Do they actually get to visit the places they dock at? How frequent is that? How often do Air Force Officers get to travel?
For context: I have no idea if I would be suited to be a pilot, or cyber warfare officer, or any of the other career options so I’m writing this on the assumption I would either be in a support position in the Air Force or a Surface Warfare Officer.