ISP, drill & questions for Army Nurse Corp Reserve 2016 - thanks!!!

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Can anyone whos had experience with army reservist fill me in on how long it takes to get the ISP/special pay? My recruiter says after I'm processed but does that mean after phase 2 of BOLC or as soon as I commission? Il probably clarify this with him, just thought I'd chime in on here before that.

Also how far did y'all have to drive to your unit for drills? I figured O-2 rank & 75k critical care ISP bonus for 3yrs was worth the 6hr roundtrip once a month, but I just wanted to know if it was common for people to drive 150miles+ or if there was a way for me to transfer to a closer base when there's availability. In the meantime will going to fort Sam from Houston since my recruiter said there's no openings in my city :( - wish me luck, thanks!

Specializes in Adult Critical Care.

I think it depends on your goals (do you want a more immersive experience) and existing commitments (kids, spouse). It's much easier to go active duty for 3-4 years then reserves for 4-5 years afterwards (to finish your 8 year total contract). Certain jobs are better in the reserves, for example flight nursing in the Air Force. You may miss out on a lot of career broadening opportunities (training, special assignments) in the reserves though.

Overall there's a lot of factors which are difficult to point out since I don't know much about your situation.

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Specializes in U.S. Army Reserve 1LT 66S - ICU.

Thx jfration, I have 2 young boys and divorced so I was more inclined to choose reserve to be around for my sons. Staying in same location and keeping civ job, while getting to experience somewhat of a military life was my only option at this point.

I just don't want to regret not going active, but hopefully this experience will be worthwhile. I signed up for a 3 year reserve commitment then 5 in IRR, maybe I can go for active later on if I'm not fulfilled. What has your military experience been like ? And thanks again for your input

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Specializes in Adult Critical Care.

My only complaint is that the deployment tempo is very low right now (deployments are somewhat rare...3 years in and no deployment), and I joined to deploy. The money is good and so are the benefits. The bureaucratic nonsense is about what you'd expect of a federal agency.

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Specializes in U.S. Army Reserve 1LT 66S - ICU.

Wow, well that's a good thing right ? Unless you want to deploy, which is admirable but rare. Honestly I would be scared to deploy but if duty calls I would be down. Are you active or reserve, and do you notice a big difference between a soldier who is active vs reserve ?

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Specializes in Adult Critical Care.

I'm active. I really haven't encountered enough reserve people to answer that question.

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