Pros and Cons of Army/Navy Reserves Nursing

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I am 22 year old, recent new grad and currently working per diem in psych. I have background in psych, but I also dont mind doing med surg. I have not entirely figured out what type of nursing that I want to do just yet. But I know for sure that I dont like Maternity. I live in the northeast and it is very difficult finding a nursing position. Lately I have been considering joining the navy or the army reserves. I figured the reserves would be good because I can still serve my country, be with my family, and build my life here. I hear alot of good things but I also want to hear the bad. I understand it is a commitment. But I do want to get married soon and hopefully start a family and possibly go back to school. How much will this decision effect my chances of accomplishing those goals within the next 5 to 8 years? What are the benefits and drawbacks of going into this? What are my chances going to the middle east? And if I do, how long would I be there? Please, feel free to be blunt and direct about your answers and experiences. I appreciate all comments.

Thank you.

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Specializes in Ambulatory Care, ED.

Would love to hear more about Navy Reserves myself!! I'm trying to get in, crossing my fingers!!

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do some google searching or browse recruiting websites for reserves or look at ANG opportunities to see what units are in your vicinity that you are willing to travel to / from and then look at what type of jobs they have.. this will help limit your scope by branch, job type and federal (reserve) or state (NG). Then you could go from there. You can find obligatory time and such on recruiting websites.. look at reserve then at healthcare / nursing... specifics for your marriage and such will depend on you... I'd narrow it down, look at what is available, look at the timeline for joining, look at your best guess early date to join and then the training and compare it to your short term goals for marriage and living in that region.

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I am looking for more personal experiences. What people expected when they went in, and what they experienced after signing up. But I mostly want their own personal opinion as to what are the pros and cons of Army or Navy nursing.

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