AECP Selectee

msmo0508 · Jun 19, 2010

I did the AECP with Army and I just graduated this year. It is a great program as long as you turn in your paperwork on time so you can get your school paid for. I was active duty so I got paid my rank and benefits for the 2 years I was in nursing school. I just took and passed the NCLEX so I am now waiting to go to OBC. The program is changing alot now because you now have to be assigned to a Reserve unit or ROTC during the summer unless you take leave. I'm not sure how it's works for you since you are in the Reserves. If you have any questions I will try and answer them.

Garifuna30 · Jun 20, 2010

Hello, I too did the AECP. I was already on Active duty when I signed up. I believe it is the best program out there. I was paid my rank for the two years I attended. I graduated in 2007. Your first year as an army nurse will be the most challenging but yet rewarding. You will be placed in a Medical Center and work on a Med-Surg floor for @ least 6mos to a year before specializing. I have been @ my duty station for 20months and now am getting ready to go to public health course. I cannot speak for every army installation nor the unit that you may be assigned to . They give you ten choices to choose. So make sure you are in agreeance with every choice you put down. You will not deploy until you at least have a solid med-surg background. For the most part they want expereinced nurses in Iraq/Afghanistan. Deployment for nurses are only 6months. Hope this helps.

EbonyGold · Jun 20, 2010

Thank you both so much for replying! It is greatly appreciated.

- Were you already 68 series when you joined the program?

- I am a little confused about the course guarantee. Is that something in your initial contract or after two years or so then it is offered to you?

- As far as duty assignments, for duty assignments are you sent to a major hospital/clinic?

- How was BOLC? How many phases are there and how long is the total school? I checked the website but they have changed it so much. It use to give a little bit on what to expect your first year.

Thank you again,

EbonyGold

msmo0508 · Jun 23, 2010

I was a E5, 68W. I leave for BOLC in August. As far as the assignments you will go a MTF for the first year. We were asked for a preference list but most of the AECP selectees was not given what they asked for because the direct commissions and ROTC have higher priority as far as assignments. I got Fort Bliss which was no where on my list, but I was told I was assigned based on the needs of the Army. Oh well I'm just happy to be a nurse and a 2LT in the Army:yeah:

EbonyGold · Jun 23, 2010

Well, I am very happy for you and can't wait to be where you are. Congratulations!!! Thank you so much for taking the time out. I really appreciate it.

EbonyGold · Jul 8, 2010

Hi,I have another question. How is life being an Army Nurse? Do you have time for your family and for yourself during the week. I am a little hesitant because of my family. I know nursing is demanding, I just wonder if it is to an extreme being an Army Nurse. Also, if you don't mind answering what location did you get as your first duty station? I know you are now going to your ASI but when you return will you be allowed to work in that capacity or will you still work as a Med-Surg?Thanks,EbonyGold

kyexplorer · Aug 3, 2010

I had a question that I know you AECP students can answer: when do you get commissioned in the AECP? I just got accepted into the program, but I can't find that piece of information anywhere.

Garifuna30 · Aug 4, 2010

Ebony... I enjoy being a nurse. Your first year as a med-surge nurse is challenging, but you learn so much. You will be working shifts, but you will have time to spend with your family. Depending on where you work,You are able to self-schedule. When you go to school for an AOC, you will function in the new AOC. I had ten choices and I ended up getting my second choice, which was Fort Gordon, GA. It is a Medical Center(MEDCEN). Take your time. Nursing school willbe challenging. but apply yourself and ask for help when needed. Do have a study group unless you study best by yourself. Good luck to you!