RN with questions about joining reserves/guard

[lwood336]

Hi everyone,

I have for a long while wanted to join the military. I graduated with my associates degree in nursing a few years ago. Unfortunately, I know that nurses need the bachelors degree minimum. Because of that I have gone back to school and should obtain my degree by late summer 2012. I did this so I can join as a nursing officer versus going the enlisted route. My questions are: When should I or when can I start the "paperwork" process? Also, how difficult is it to join any of the reserves (Army, Navy, Air Force) and be direct commission? I really would like to join as soon as possible because this is something I have always wanted to do. Thanks for any suggestions or comments!

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

As I'm sure you've read over the months, it's a long and tedious process; the services are having only a few selection boards each fiscal year due to decreased requirements for commissioning RNs. If I were you, I'd get in touch with a healthcare recruiter now so that you will be properly positioned (all paperwork/physical done) for the next round of selection boards at the start of the new fiscal year, after you've completed your BSN. If you'll be finishing in late summer 2012, that is perfect timing for the selection boards for fiscal year 2013. Good luck!!