Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 5/5/2009

Question
Ok so i have gone through all of the process' of joining the military. Scored in the 50's on my ASVAB done all the paper work, passed MEPS, chose my MOS, signed a bunch of contracts, did my first swear in. Although when i was choosing my MOS the ones i have researched and wanted were unavaliable so i was forced into a job i didn't really want. But after research i see that it isnt the job for me. Now i have relatives who told me if its not the MOS i want i can ask my recruiter if it can be changed, or if i can wait for the one i want to be available or i always have the option to up out and join another branch that offers me the MOS i want.

My question is, is that possible? If i talk to my recruiter (Army) and they cant do anything or wont change my MOS contract, do i still have the option in not joining the army? Then can i go to other branches still? The tricky part i don't know about is that i already signed the contracts and swore in the first time, i am scheduled to go to basic in 4 months. So am i stuck? or do i still have options?

Answer
Joe,
Rule #1:  Never listen to friends and relatives, they're seldom correct.  In this case they were right except they overlooked the fact that you've already sworn in.

If you have sworn in, you're in.  At this point you're stuck in both the Army and your MOS.

Having said that, changing your MOS is not easy but it can be done.  After IET, you must wait until you PCS, then go ask your Company Retention NCO.  Once you successfully complete the training requirements for the job you're in, then you're eligible to change.  The reason you can't switch now is you haven't been trained in the job yet, so you obviously don't know from first-hand experience that you don't like it.  The needs of the Army always come first and they probably placed you according to your ASVAB scores plus where they need help.

The Retention NCO has received training, and has access to the regulations that can answer your question for sure.  Also, your Brigade or Division Re-enlistment office has Career Counselors who answer that type of question all day long.  They have a list on what jobs are understrength and need people to fill slots.  If the MOS you want is currently undermanned you may be in luck.  However, if your current MOS is also undermanned, you're screwed.

Also, go back and talk to your local recruiter.  He may know a trick that I'm not aware of.

Give it a chance.  Who knows, you may like it.
Good luck,
Colonel H