Split between branches

[LiveWithIntention]

Hi :) I'm new. This is by far the best forum for military nursing that I have ever came across.

I am currently a nursing student (20 yrs old), and I graduate in 2 years with my BSN from a great program. I have always been intrested in military nursing, but I know very little about it. I started researching it about a year ago, but I still feel like I have tons of unanswered questions. I'm not even quite sure which branch I am most intreseted in.

I've always had a huge facination with the Air Force, but that doesn't necessarily mean that it's right for me.

I was a competitive swimmer for 12 years and I love being around water, especially the ocean. I like the idea of the Navy.

The Army also catches my attention because (from what it seems) when they are deployed they get to help the most soldiers. But.. I am kinda drawn away from the Army because of their long deployments. Don't get me wrong, I want to be over there to contribute and help out, but that is a very long time.

I am leaning towards Air Force or Navy.

I have heard that Air Force has nicer facilities and treats their people better, but I've also read that the Navy gets to travel more.

Most importantly, I just want to become a military nurse and serve our soldiers. I've determined that this is what I want to do with my life.

Can anyone lead me in the right direction as to which branch would be best for me?

Also, is every branches contract the same length?

Oh, and I forgot to mention that I would like to go Active Duty.

[carolinapooh, BSN, RN]

SERIOUSLY. They do look nice (on the guys - I still drool every time I watch JAG and David James Elliot walks out in his full whites - OUCH) but for chicks? I'd be so paranoid!

And they have what - four uniforms you have to buy? The whites, the khakis, their version of fatigues, the dress uniform, and the mess dress....AAAACCKK!!

I think they've pared them down but still...

[caliotter3]

When I was in junior high I remember having a white skirt. OMG! That was when I discovered that white and I do not mix. And white blouses or T shirts. They never last long with me because my perspiration ruins them. But I agree, oh do they look sharp, especially if the guy has dark hair and eyes! And a tan complexion too, while I am daydreaming!

[midinphx, BSN]

LivewithIntention,

I am prior service Army and I'm rejoining into the Air Force now as a nurse. I'm ICU and prequalified ICU. In the AF new grads have 2 tracks - OB or MedSurg (anyone correct me if I'm wrong). When you get to your duty station, they put you where the need is. When you join AF, you go to Commissioned Officer Training (COT)for 4.5 weeks. Then new grads or nurses under 1 year experience go to Nurse Transition Program (NTP) for like 11weeks. Then you go to your permanent duty station. You get a wish list of what you may like. I got number 2 on my list. (I get to go meet Carolinapooh in San Antonio!).

I think that with NTP, the Air Force has a better learning and training program than any civilian position that I've seen. You won't be set loose lost and alone, as what happens to many nurses in civilian world.

If you can't go yet for your family, then wait. I have waited 21 years. But it does take along time to do the paperwork and get sent. I started my process in May 2009. And I just found out that I'm going in May. lol.

You are doing a great job asking questions. Keep asking and digging. Do get in with a Medical recruiter asap. You aren't wasting their time.

[carolinapooh, BSN, RN]

When I was in junior high I remember having a white skirt. OMG! That was when I discovered that white and I do not mix. And white blouses or T shirts. They never last long with me because my perspiration ruins them. But I agree, oh do they look sharp, especially if the guy has dark hair and eyes! And a tan complexion too, while I am daydreaming!

I don't smoke, but suddenly I have an urge for a cigarette....OUCH....