Expert: Jason Grabill - 9/9/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I'm a junior in high school and currently want to join the Marines to eventually work my way up to a Marine Corps Aviator. I was just wondering if you could let me know how to get there. I was reading and in order to attend one of the schools mentioned in the subject, you had to either be in college or have graduated college. Is this true? Any further information would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

ANSWER: Paul:
 
   If you are going to try that route, then yes, you do have to attend a college, and enroll in PLC while there.  All officers (except warrant officers) have to have a BA/BS degree in some field.  (Generally speaking).  You can certainly try the enlisted to officer route, but that will take longer to do.  There are plenty of colleges that offer PLC as a program to do, you just have to pick the one that is right for you.   The aviator option can be selected and guaranteed, but you'll have to meet all the qualifications as well as getting high scores, to get to that point.  

 Consider talking to a Marine Corps recruiter and getting some information on officer programs, it's a good place to start and they'll give you lots of good information about what your next steps should be.

Jason

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

QUESTION: Will my high school grades help determine if I'm accepted into any of the two schools (PLC/OCC) or affect me and the aviation aspect? And also, would having your FAA Private Pilot's Certificate help at all during this process?

Once again, thanks!

ANSWER: Paul:

  Yes, they will certainly play a part in getting accepted.  The Marine Corps looks at the whole package, not just your college education but your HS education as well.  The pilots certificate won't hurt your chances by any means, if you can get it now and keep it current (not sure how that works;  if it's like a drivers license or something).  It will certainly add to your packet when you apply for aviation.

Jason

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

QUESTION: Hi! Would you know how big of a role math plays in flying a jet as well as what type of math (basic stuff, geometry, algebra ect)?

I ask as math is probably my weakest point (except the basic stuff, adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing) in school and I know thats going to be my biggest down fall probably wherever I go.

I plan on seeing a recruiter soon, so if you don't know then ill ask him/her!

Once again, thanks, I really appreciate your help!


Answer
Paul:

  Math will play a role in college, and it will play a role as an aviator as well, if nothing else, in your overall GPA.  Math was always my downfall as well, but the best advice I can give is to take the hard classes now so that when you have to do the advanced stuff, later, it'll be easier.  Some HS classes you can even get college credit for, so that is something else to look into.  I really don't know how much pilots use math these days, no doubt a large amount would be related to navigation and fuel consumption issues, however it's likely that is all done by computer.  

Jason