2015 USAF NTP

I've was an alternate the cycle before I got selected. I was alternate 3 for clinical nursing, which is the biggest specialty. It's not very likely.

Maybe if you're alternate #1 you have a reasonable shot. However, you have to figure that the vast majority of people who go through all the hassle of applying aren't going to turn down an opportunity if it's presented to them unless there are circumstances outside of their control (break the law or get pregnant).

Yep.

You will need to apply again, but a lot of the paperwork can be re-used. It means that you will need to get a civilian RN job and reapply as a fully-qualified nurse (experienced nurse). The AF takes new grads only once per year (as opposed to twice per year for experienced nurses), and I'm guessing that you would have more than 6 months of experience by the time you applied again.

GPA is still a factor. They use the whole person concept, therefore they can take any info on your application into consideration. I would definitely get your CEN credential before applying as a fully-qualified ED nurse; ACLS, PALS, ENPC, and TNCC would also be helpful.

The silver lining to not getting-in as a new grad is that you won't have to do any med-surg. You'll start as an ED nurse off-the-bat.

I believe your paperwork for the next FQ application cycle will be due in September; the board meets in October. The app is largely similiar to what you've already done, however I think there is a form for your boss to sign too (verifying your ER experience). However, you won't be eligible for that board, because ED/OR/ICU nurses must have 1 year of full-time experience to apply. The next board should meet in roughly February 2016. (Jan 2016 due date for paperwork). If you don't have 1 year by then, the following board will be Oct 2016 (Sep 2016 paperwork due date).

You'll get 50% credit for your civilian RN experience towards your rank. So, if you've got 1 year of civilian RN time, you'll promote to 0-2 6 months quicker.

You are eligible to apply as a FQ clinical nurse for Feb 2016, but not as a FQ ED nurse. You need 1 year of full time experience as an ED nurse to apply as an ED nurse.

If you choose to apply as a clinical nurse, know that you have to do 2 years of inpatient med-surg in the military. Then, you'll be eligible to apply to a clinical fellowship that trains you as an ED, OR, ICU, pysch, OB, or NICU nurse.

Reserves is easier, but it's not a back door to active duty. You'll be stuck in reserves.

You should apply again. It isn't that much more work if you've applied once before.

It's not as simple as who has the most experience. You are evaluated within the context of how much experience you have. A nurse with 4 years will be expected to mentor and charge, while one with a year who does the same thing will be seen as going 'above and beyond.'

Plus, improving yourself and applying again reinforces the idea that you want to be in the military. That will also help you.