AF reserve/Navy reserve direct commission for nurse

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Hey guys,

I'm highly interested in joining either the Air Force reserves or Navy reserves. From everything I've read (haven't heard back from a recruiter yet), it sounds like a nurse can be direct commissioned into the reserves without prior active duty service. Is this true?

Please note that my interest in the reserves is not because I wish to dodge deployment. The idea of deployment is actually quite exciting, I haven't ruled out active duty, however I'm looking into the reserves first because of my particular life situation right now.

If a direct commission is possible, is it particularly difficult competitive? More competitive than active duty? Any idea how long it takes to go through the process?

Thanks!

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

Yes, yes, yes, not sure, and long. Clear?

Commissioning means they want you for your professional expertise and experience. Your best bet is to find a unit that you want to work in and contact them directly. They will then help you to get commissioned, or at least put you in touch with the appropriate recruiter. It is competitive so do everything you can to maximize your education and experience. It took me 14 months to be accepted into the Air National Guard. Good luck. Murica!

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Thanks! I looked at Air Guard too, but they said they were full in my area.

If you don't mind, could you give me some ideas of the things you did that helped make you a good candidate? I mean, anything other than the usual stuff that makes people look good to employers. I'm not sure there's anything in particular that the military likes to see.

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

Leadership, volunteerism, clinical expertise (think certifications), authorship, anything to set you above the rest.

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