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I'm currently a graduate student in a Physics PhD program, but I have recently considered dropping out and pursuing a career where I can work on real world applications as opposed to theory. I have considered becoming a commissioned officer in the military
One reason for my wanting to switch careers is because I have found working on technical problems to be a little boring. Last semester, I couldn't help but want to put in more time and effort into my duties/responsibilities as a TA than I should have (it interfered with my studies). I liked being able to lead the class and be responsible for making decisions. However, I went through a TON of stress by having to deal with some difficult students. I want to get over being so thin-skinned
Another reason I want to join force is because I'm a typical nerdy, shy student. I can be extremely shy at times when I have to socialize. Also, I don't have many hobbies other than studying and reading, so its hard for me to relate to people. That is why I have hardly any friends. But I feel alot more comfortable around people when I have to teach, tutor, or be a TA. Also, I want to change my personality. I want to be more confident and be less socially awkward and less of a pushover.
Finally, I consider myself a patriot and I have an interest in military technology.
So..I wanna hear from insider's perspective. Do you guys think I can make it in there? Or will I get eaten alive if I try to join?
I think you might be a very good fit for some technical branches. The military has some "nerds" in addition to the "jocks". Which career and military branch were you considering?
I'm considering the Army and Air Force. I'm thinking of being an officer in the Field Artillery Branch
Before there were computers or hand held calculators the Field Artillery had special jobs for the the Nerdy who could use pencil and paper to figure all of the geometry and trig involved in hitting a target several miles away that you can not see. I imagine the same is true today using computers and GPS. Artillery is a Combat Arms branch though and as an Officer you would supervise front line troops. Perhaps a nice Missle Silo in the Dakotas
I'm considering the Army and Air Force. I'm thinking of being an officer in the Field Artillery Branch
I've known quite a few Army FA officers, cypher. They're "jock" types. They're smart, but they also seem like the type who played football in high school. That might work for you, but are you sure that's what you want? You describe yourself as a shy nerd. Don't you want to be around people who are more like you?
I'm currently a graduate student in a Physics PhD program, but I have recently considered dropping out and pursuing a career where I can work on real world applications as opposed to theory. I have considered becoming a commissioned officer in the military
One reason for my wanting to switch careers is because I have found working on technical problems to be a little boring. Last semester, I couldn't help but want to put in more time and effort into my duties/responsibilities as a TA than I should have (it interfered with my studies). I liked being able to lead the class and be responsible for making decisions. However, I went through a TON of stress by having to deal with some difficult students. I want to get over being so thin-skinned
Another reason I want to join force is because I'm a typical nerdy, shy student. I can be extremely shy at times when I have to socialize. Also, I don't have many hobbies other than studying and reading, so its hard for me to relate to people. That is why I have hardly any friends. But I feel alot more comfortable around people when I have to teach, tutor, or be a TA. Also, I want to change my personality. I want to be more confident and be less socially awkward and less of a pushover.
Finally, I consider myself a patriot and I have an interest in military technology.
So..I wanna hear from insider's perspective. Do you guys think I can make it in there? Or will I get eaten alive if I try to join?
As a veteran of a combat intensive unit in Vietnam, I would say that I observed some quiet nerdy types who had real stamina and courage and depth ... and I observed some hot-shot jocks who didn't turn out to be so hot. Only you know what's really inside. Outside doesn't mean much.
One other comment though -- re: wanting to change your personality. Personalities don't change much, really ... there is, however, such a thing as metamorphosis that brings out existing qualities. If that's possible in your case, the military is certainly a likely environment to support the realization. That said, the military is not the only experience that will test your mettle. And there are certainly many constructive challenges that don't involve participating in a culture of destruction. The military has its place in reality -- so do studying volcanoes or grizzly bears and fighting forest fires
If you aren't willing to be challenged, you'll never find out want you can be. If you join the service you are sure to find out. Go for it, you don't having anything to lose and everything to gain.
I've known quite a few Army FA officers, cypher. They're "jock" types. They're smart, but they also seem like the type who played football in high school. That might work for you, but are you sure that's what you want? You describe yourself as a shy nerd. Don't you want to be around people who are more like you?
I'd prefer hanging out with less difficult people. I'm willing to stay a nerd, but I absolutely must stop being shy and thin-skinned.
Quote:
Originally Posted by ovcatto
If you aren't willing to be challenged, you'll never find out want you can be. If you join the service you are sure to find out. Go for it, you don't having anything to lose and everything to gain.
As the slogan goes, "be all that you can be."
how should I get started? Apply for OCS? Take an ROTC course in grad school? I'm not sure my department will let me take a course that isn't related to my studies
how should I get started? Apply for OCS? Take an ROTC course in grad school? I'm not sure my department will let me take a course that isn't related to my studies
Try for OCS. You already have a degree, don't think ROTC will take you...
Rich
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