Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 3/27/2009

Question
QUESTION: Col. Bedell,

I have always read your insightful and professional responses to questions on this site. So far I have gained a lot as regards my application into army OCS.

I am 36, I have a BSc in Geophysics and MSc. in Information Systems and Services. I scored a 93 in my ASVAB and had 124GT score. I am also prior enlisted with 4 years in the Navy.

During my application into OCS, I was the one who was guiding my recruiter on all the processes rather than the other way around. Anyway, to cut the long story short, I was at MEPS to sign my contract after I was recommended by the OCS board to attend.

While there, it was discovered that the waiver for age limits was not included. This was then sent on Friday. Today, I am still waiting for news from them if it was granted or not.

Does the silence mean rejection? Everything has been rather perfect up to this point. Is there anything I could do? Please advice. I am at my wits end,

Dani

ANSWER: Dear Dani --

I have added a comment to my previous answer.  

A waiver request can take up to 90 days for processing.  So, don't panic.  If you have heard nothing in 30 to 45 days, contact the recruiting office that prepared your packet, and ask if they have heard anything.

In reviewing your situation, I am surprised you need an age waiver.  You are 36 and have 4 years prior service.  You should be able to enlist with out a waiver.  You may want to contact your recruiting office and inquire on the status of your packet, and all waivers.

I wish you the best of luck.  Please write back, if you have any other questions.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Col. Bedell,

Thank you for your help over the past few days. Today, I signed my OCS contract and would be attending in July.

Now I do have few other questions to ask you if you do not mind.

1. Is it possible to switch to army health services along the line in my career. Say when I reach the Captain rank?

I am interested in the Army Medical Service Corps as a 70D, Health Services Systems Management Officer as a result of my MSc. in Information Systems & Services.

2. I heard that in order to apply for AMEDD, my bachelor has to be from the US. My bachelor is foreign, but my MSc is in the US. How true is this?

3. Do I need TS clearance to work in Signal?
4. My girlfriend is not an american and she currently lives and work in the UK. Should we decided to get married someday is it remotely possible to do so without losing my security clearance? I am 36 and I reckon I need a companion.

5. Or do you think it is advisable now to shelve OCS since I am going to get married to her if we are ready?

Thank you for your expected response. I apologize in advance is I swamped you with my questions.

Dani  

Answer
Dear Dani --

1.  The health services field is almost always looking for officers, but in the medical treatment side.  The medical management side usually has their full manning.  However, you can always apply for a branch transfer.  You may also want to consider information systems program management to use your degree when you reach the rank of captain.

2.  If you have served successfully, you can apply for all programs available to officers with your rank, age and time in service.  Your degree will not play a major role.  If a bachelors degree is a key requirement for some opportunity you desire, request a waiver and ask to substitute your US Masters degree.  Most of the time your petition will be honored.

3.  To be an officer, you must have a secret clearance.  Not all signal officer positions require TS, but all military intelligence officer positions do.  Some jobs in all the other branches require top secret clearances.  You will have an opportunity to apply for that clearance when you are being considered for a job that requires TS but before you are assigned to that job.

4.  A foreign spouse does not automatically negate your clearance.  It will however make your application for TS or renewal of current clearance a longer more involved process.  If your spouse becomes a naturalized citizen, then the difficulties decrease, but probably are not eliminated.

5.  I recommend you strive for what you desire.  You should be able to have an officer career and a foreign wife.  You may have to forgo certain TS jobs in that case, but other jobs will still be open to you.

Good luck.  Congratulations on getting your OCS packet through.