Navy ROTC vs. Air Force ROTC

[kaitmac7]

I know I just inquired about the Navy and Army ROTC, but I've been turned on to the Air Force ROTC. I want to know which would be better for my goals and aspirations. I want to become a Nurse Anesthetist or NP. I would also maybe like to make the Navy or Air Force my career.

1. Who has better training? Better benefits?
   
2. Opportunities to become an advanced practice nurse?
   
3. Who has a better working environment/living conditions for nurses?
   
4. Can I be stationed in California? Are there bases in CA?
   
5. Is there a limit to what schools I can attend for the nursing option?
   

Overall, should I do a high school application right now or should I wait until I'm enrolled in college before I sign up for ROTC.

I want to get some inside information before I commit to anything or come to any decisions.

God Bless,

K

[Dranger]

I was a ROTC and Army recruiter for a bit, so before you jump the gun make sure they even have scholarships. We had cut ours heavily when I was recruiting a few years ago and I am sure it has gotten worse. You don't just sign up, to get a COMMISSION you NEED a contract or scholarship.

I could list the pros/cons of both but first I want you to understand the chances of getting a scholarship or contract nowadays are not common.

FYI a large percentage of Army, AF or Navy nurses (especially ICU) have aspirations of becoming a CRNA so please don't mention that as a selling point at a ROTC interview. You will get eye rolls.

That being said I have heard the AF has more scholarship money to throw around for nurses so I would focus on that direction.

The military is similar for nursing across all branches, deployments may differ slightly as do duty stations but nursing is nursing. Personally I feel that the Army has the most educational opportunities but AF has the best quality of life. Navy is mostly unknown to me.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

We have moved this thread to our Military Nursing forum with the ultimate goal of amassing more targeted feedback, replies and information. Good luck to you!