Expert: Matt - 5/24/2009

Question
Hi, I really want to go to OCS for the Navy or Marine Corps and I have a few questions to find out if it is possible for someone in my situation. First I am 25, in good shape with a B.A. in political Science from a top 10 public school with a 3.4 GPA. I can get excellent letters of recomendation from family who have served in the navy including a naval academy graduate and a former Blue Angel/flight surgeon as well as a current US Senator who's campaign I helped work on.

Here is the problem... When I was younger I was arrested a few times for marijuana (twice) and some other drug posessions shoplifting charges. I cant tell you exactly what or how many times because my record is expunged and so even I cannot access it. In the past six years I have recieved a few minor speeding tickets and a littering ticket.
It has been six years now without incident and in the mean time I have graduated with honors from College. With my app I plan to write about how I have learned from my experiences and can potentially help other sailors suffering from alcohol substance abuse.

What do you think? Have I proved that I have redeemed myself or is there no hope to serve my country?

Answer
Acceptance to Navy or UMSC OCS is based on a case by case basis - each individual is different; a large part of it has to do with what the recruiter thinks of you. With that said, do not misrepresent yourself; but certainly make a good impression (essentially just be yourself). Be candid about your past, but if I were you I would hold off on writing an application essay about it. Your OSO will be a Capt but the guys who read the essays are Majors and Colonels, drugs and shoplifting are not what they want to hear about. Congrats on putting that stuff behind you - the best you can do is contact your local navy recruiter and put your best foot forward.