Air Force FY 2015

enova · Nov 4, 2014

So I did get to talk to my recruiter. Finally know what the odds were for clinical nurse. There were 90 applicants for clinical nurse and 15 slots that were filled. My only option is to appy again next year. I guess perseverance might get us what we want eventually. To all that were selected congratulations. To all of us that weren't maybe talking to ya next year around this time!

Free2live · Nov 4, 2014

Enova, (and anyone else that didn't make it...YET )

So sorry you didn't make it this time. I've been watching these threads for a while, I can't apply yet as I'm still finishing up my bachelors degree. Did they give you any idea why or what could've helped you. I know you said you were alternate last time...so disappointing and confusing you were nonselect this time . Is there a limit to how many times you can apply?

Thank you all for sharing your experiences!

enova · Nov 4, 2014

Free2live, NO real feed back on why. My guess is last time I applied as ER nurse and got alternate, this time I changed to clinical so I guess that was not a good move. I am lost as it seems that i have a solid background. I changed to clinical because I do not currently work in ER and thought that was hurting me, but seems like clinical did not care much for my experience...It is a difficult process and no real clear answers. However the board considers about 200 applicants so the task is not easy. Recruiter said I can apply again, did not mention any limit on how many times. For me though, i do not see myself applying again. That may change by this time next year. I wish you luck in your long journey and pray that you get it! I have to say this forum is awesome, as i found a lot of information here first.

Free2live · Nov 4, 2014

I feel like just from reading these post I know you...so please forgive me if I'm over stepping....but don't give up if it's what you really want to do and believe you are meant to!! I'm saying this because I hope someone tells me the same thing when I get non-selected lol. I think if it is really in your heart to serve our country in this manner...then don't let go of that goal! When I get discouraged just hearing the people that don't make it, I tell myself "I've made it this far...I got accepted into nursing school...I passed...I'm an RN...I have the job in critical care I wanted and needed. It all works out if it's meant to be. I (and you) very likely have what it takes. A heart to serve. Dedication. Selflessness, and PERSEVERANCE and DETERMINATION."

Anyways, I'm very glad to hear there is no limit on how many times you can apply. I wouldn't even be getting my BSN if it wasn't required to join. I plan to apply until I make it....or get a flat out "no, it will never happen." (Remind me that in the future when I get disappointed lol! ) :yes:

enova · Nov 4, 2014

Thank you Free2live!!!!! Your words of encouragement mean so much! You are right, it is my dream and I should not give up. Surely someday they will say poor girl give it to her already lol it may be 5 years from now but I will be there. I will keep track of these forums to be your encouragement/cheerleader if u need it! I pray you don't and maybe the military will change it's needs and we might all have a chance:yes:

irfarmer · Nov 5, 2014

Enova, it has taken me 3 years, but I was finally selected. I started out applying for AD Navy, only to be told 3 weeks after I submitted my package that I was too old. I settled for Navy Reserves almost 2 years ago, but knew it wasn't were I wanted to be. The Air Force told me they would take me till age 48 (I have 5 years prior AD), and originally turned it down.They (AF) called me this past spring again, and I decided to go for it. I am a clinical nurse in the Navy, but have been working in the OR for a year and a half. So, I decided to apply for OR this time, and now Im headed to Eglin in February. Don't sell yourself short, you can do it and get where you want to be, you just have to be persistent and stick with what you really want.

su1685 · Nov 9, 2014

mattyjr check this topic out: Air force COT March 30 2015

darthsunshine, BSN · Nov 9, 2014

I recently took a teaching position in a nursing college (after 7.5 years clinical experience in a mix of pedi, L&D, NICU & post surgical). I teach 4 days a week, with18 hours/week in clinical setting)

I plan to apply next year, but wonder if being out of the clinical setting full time will hurt my chances. Does anyone know?

jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA · Nov 10, 2014

I think it will help you stand out, as long as you are working full time in a position that requires an RN. Teaching and leadership experience are something that they ask about in the essays. There's really no way to know for sure what they are looking for though.

darthsunshine, BSN · Nov 16, 2014

I have a friend who is a colonel in the nurse corps, who helped to review new nurse packages this year. Her suggestion is my application would be stronger if I'm working clinically in the area I want to work. I have more OB experience, but am trying to get into OR. *sigh*

I'm planning to keep my teaching job as adjunct, and get back in the hospital at least PT.

jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA · Nov 17, 2014

CNOR certification would really be the ticket if that is your goal. They require all nurses competing for Major to have some kind of board certification right now. You may have to be currently working in the OR to get that certification though.

irfarmer · Nov 20, 2014

They don't require you to have your CNOR certification to be eligible. I don't have mine and was selected for OR, it is not available to me through my employer and you can not buy it to become certified on your own. As far as the OB route, I believe there are more OR billets available than there are OB, so your best opportunity lies with OR. From there you can switch to different specialties over time, with permission from your command. I was also told that CNOR is required for promotion to Major as well, hopefully it is offered through my command.