Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 9/4/2008

Question
Hello, Im 33 years old and am seriously considering joining the military. I have a BS in Health Care Administration and am currently employed as an X-ray tech. What are my best options due to my age???

Answer
Dear Camille --

You should contact a medical corps recruiter.  You are qualified to be a medical service corps officer with your BS degree.  

Alternatively, you could enlist also in the medical corps, as a medical technician.  You could even get X-ray tech, if that's what you want.

As an officer you would get more pay, but have more responsibility.  As an enlisted Soldier you would get paid less, but be responsible mostly for your job, and a little bit for the team as a whole.  As an enlisted Soldier, if you enter a filed in high demand, you can earn bonuses, get college loans, paid off, or get on an accelerated promotion track, depending what works best for you.

All the services have a need for your skills.  The Army has the most pressing need, and will probably make you the best offer.

Please write back, if you want to discuss any option in more detail.  Good luck to you.