Thinking of working towards being a Navy ME

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations and pathways for a high school student interested in pursuing a career as a Gas Turbine Systems Technician (GSM) in the Navy, with a focus on engineering and military service. Participants explore various options, including direct enlistment, military academies, and ROTC programs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses enthusiasm for pursuing a GSM role in the Navy and seeks advice.
  • Another participant suggests that talking to a recruiter could be beneficial, even at a young age, as they can provide valuable information about different entry routes.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of preparing for military academy applications early and suggests obtaining an undergraduate degree in engineering to enter the military at a higher rank.
  • Some participants caution that an enlisted position like GSM may not align with a passion for engineering, recommending exploration of ROTC or service academies instead.
  • A participant shares personal experience, noting the demanding nature of military service and encouraging thorough research before making a decision.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views regarding the best path forward, with no consensus on whether direct enlistment or pursuing a degree and ROTC/service academy is preferable.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying opinions on the value of military experience versus academic qualifications, and there are differing views on the implications of entering military service directly after high school.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students considering military careers, particularly in engineering fields, and individuals interested in the pathways to military service and education.

TheQuietOne
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I am thinking of (working towards) being a GSM in the Navy, I'm only starting high school and love engineering. Any thoughts?
 
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That is a very good idea. Have you talked to a recruiter yet?
 
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No, I didn't think I should until I am ready to start on their program
 
Still, it may benefit you to continue asking around and interview people that have been in the Navy, and especially about the career you are interested in. You may very well want to talk to a recruiter, there are different routes that you use to enter. They aren't going to hound you at your age and it could be a great resource. I have heard of recruiters being supportive for years before they join!

If you decide upon joining a military academy, you would need to start working towards that now, and not after high school! If you earn an undergraduate degree in engineering before joining, then you can enter the military at higher grade, I think. Going straight into the military may put you at an disadvantage when you return to civilian life, those skills you learn don't usually translate into a degree to use later! I do think it would be best for you to at least have a general associates degree before going straight into the military.

http://www.militaryspot.com/news/pros-and-cons-about-going-military-after-high-school
 
Depends. If you love engineering, then an enlisted job like GSM may not be the best choice for you. You'll be a technical worker, not an engineer. I would advise you to look at options for ROTC in college or if you're super ambitious then a service academy. However, I only encourage this if you want to merge your work with your love for the military/country. I spent 10 years in service, and it is a demanding job that few can handle for more than a few years. You have time, so take that time and do your research.
 
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