Here's the OCS update:
In short I am going to do direct commissioning instead of OCS. I am currently working on my Chaplain Candidate application and that will be direct commission. If anyone has any questions about this then please feel free to ask. I can probably still answer many of the questions that you do have about OCS so again feel free to ask. If I find the time I'll try to post some FAQ's or OCS tips for ya'll but I can't guarantee that I will have the time. Here's a good thing to work on if you're going to OCS: run. Every company is different but each company runs a lot. Don't come to OCS expecting to get in shape; come to OCS already in shape.
Are you still updating this blog?
ReplyDeleteHi Vanessa,
ReplyDeleteI haven't updated it in a while because things have been at a stand still. I do have a new commissioning packet which is going to the board this week. I will be getting a new update in here soon (hopefully within the next couple of days).
That's awesome. I came across your page because I too am applying for OCS. My board is tomorrow and was wondering if you offer some advice. Your story is one I can relate too. Also, being able to hear from a female perspective is motivating. Wish me luck! Thanks for blogging and I hope to read more about it in the future.
ReplyDeleteSo do you have to do OCS if you are direct commissioning? Also, I have heard the board for OCS is extremely competitive. No recruiter will say, but do you have any idea what the average GPA is of applicants? Or the average PT score? I want to apply, but I also do want to have an idea of what the board is looking for.
ReplyDeleteThanks and good luck!
Vanessa, how did you board go? My words of advice are these: When training gets tough stay focused on your goal and the main reason you wanted to be an Army officer. Also, stay persistent and high speed. It's important in the Army to be proactive. Lastly, run, run, run. In OCS you'll run a lot. The sooner you start working on your cardio the more it will benefit you.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous - No, when a person direct commissions they do not have to go through either basic or OCS. They have training which is geared towards their specific branch (Chaplain, JAG, Medical) as well as soldiering skills but that's the extend of it.
ReplyDeleteThe OCS board is competitive but that doesn't mean it's impossible by any means. As far as intelligence goes, the Army does not look at your GPA but your GT score. In order to qualify for OCS you need at least a score of 110. For PT it would be recommended to have at least a 250 (minimum) for the board but when you get to OCS you'll want as close to 300 as possible (min 270 is good). The board is looking for confidence. In the Army you can be wrong but if you're confident then you'll earn respect and the military is all about respect. Work hard and be confident and you'll do great.
I agree with what Meg said. :)
ReplyDeleteHey Meg can you tell me anything else about what to expect at ocs? Do they make you buy anything for army ocs? And your blog is very helpful~ thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi! In a nutshell you should expect good PT, classroom time, field time, and little sleep. There are a lot of little details but I unfortunately do not have much time to go into everything right now. If you're a go-getter and used to volunteering it is both a blessing and a curse in OCS. Everyone gets a chance to lead and you'll be evaluated on your leadership ability. Although you're not treated horribly, you are also not treated with a whole lot of respect in the first phase. As you advance into the senior phase you start to get treated as the future officer you're becoming but keep in mind you're not there yet; people have been kicked out during the last week so always be on your guard and give your best effort. It would be wise to become familiar with land nav and be in the best shape possible BEFORE going to OCS. You are the future officers of the US Army and they expect a lot out of you. Oh. one more thing, if you feel like giving up Don't! It is completely worth it to press through to the end. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteHi! In a nutshell you should expect good PT, classroom time, field time, and little sleep. There are a lot of little details but I unfortunately do not have much time to go into everything right now. If you're a go-getter and used to volunteering it is both a blessing and a curse in OCS. Everyone gets a chance to lead and you'll be evaluated on your leadership ability. Although you're not treated horribly, you are also not treated with a whole lot of respect in the first phase. As you advance into the senior phase you start to get treated as the future officer you're becoming but keep in mind you're not there yet; people have been kicked out during the last week so always be on your guard and give your best effort. It would be wise to become familiar with land nav and be in the best shape possible BEFORE going to OCS. You are the future officers of the US Army and they expect a lot out of you. Oh. one more thing, if you feel like giving up Don't! It is completely worth it to press through to the end. Good luck!
ReplyDelete