Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 11/16/2010

Question
I'm hoping you can answer my question. I have my GED with less then 15
college credits. I also have a possesion of drug paraphernalia charge.
Took the asvab and scored hight than a 50. Can I join, if not is there a
way around it, my recrutier said they did away with those waivers. Thank
you for your time.  

Answer
Well there are a few variables here that could affect your case. Overall I'd say it is about a 40% chance of you being able to join.  Now here is what affects that: First, and foremost, the Army is recruiting less personnel due to a shift in the end strength that we are trying to achieve.  This means that they are able to be pickier about the personnel that they do accept.  That leads into your second issue: the drug charge.  When the army is being picky they grant fewer 'moral waivers' which is what you would need to join.  Also, the other issue with joining the reserves is that you have to find a job near you that you qualify for.  Your ASVAB score along with drug issue limits the amount of jobs in the military you qualify for.  Every state has certain reserve units and you'd need to find one that has a job opening that is available to you.  All in all it will be an uphill fight in order to get in the military.  Listen to your recruiter and he'll steer you in the right direction.