2009-2010 Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences Application Thread

[Tenbusu]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hey, incoming AF here. I was under the impression from my sponsor student that I don't need to buy any of that until I actually get to COT right? Where did you even get access to those / and how do you know they are regulation?

Also, question for everyone. My EAD orders are saying that I should contact Base Housing Referral Office before I sign any lease agreement to protect me from unscrupulous leases ... did anyone do this yet?? I tried looking for this office on the USUHS website but came up with nothing.

From what I've read, you don't NEED to have any uniforms, and you will be given time for this at COT. The Uniform Checklist has a list of items that must be purchased by the end of Training Day 1. But I think the consensus has been that it is nice to have your stuff ready when you get there, since we have time now and you won't be as rushed.

Some people on here have said that they were let on the nearest AF base with their orders and a drivers license, others have found an AD member to take them. Clothing Sales on base should know the regs and how the clothing should fit on you. You can also access 36-2903 (the uniform Air Force Instruction) here: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/. Click the "Publications" tab, "Air Force" tab, then click on "Department". You want the 36 series. Navigate to 36-2903 and download the PDF. This contains everything you'd ever want to know about your uniform and appearance standards, and it's illustrated. PM me if you have trouble.

I haven't contacted the housing office, since I haven't started looking for housing yet. You should e-mail or call Rebecca Patterson and ask.

 

[gustiegirl]

Is there anyway to get a pay advance for uniforms and such? I'm running down to my last dollar and I doubt the $400 uniform allowance at ODS is going to cover the entire cost.

 

[ftrflyr29]

Is there anyway to get a pay advance for uniforms and such? I'm running down to my last dollar and I doubt the $400 uniform allowance at ODS is going to cover the entire cost.

Check into the low interest career starter loan at Navy Mutual Aid Association. You can look it up online and there are other people here, earlier in the thread who have discussed it.

 

[silverhorse84]

Is there anyway to get a pay advance for uniforms and such? I'm running down to my last dollar and I doubt the $400 uniform allowance at ODS is going to cover the entire cost.

You don't have to pay until the end of ODS, and if they get your pay right the first time, you should get paid sometime during ODS. However, if that's not enough, they'll give you a payment plan - I don't remember the exact plan, but they'll explain it to you when you go in the first week to get fitted. Also, I believe if you sign up for their star card you'll get a discount on your uniforms - they'll explain that the day you get fitted too.

So, in short, you don't pay til the end and you don't have to pay all at once.

And yes, the uniform allowance doesn't come near the total you'll spend.

 

[NavyCy]

Also, question for everyone. My EAD orders are saying that I should contact Base Housing Referral Office before I sign any lease agreement to protect me from unscrupulous leases ... did anyone do this yet?? I tried looking for this office on the USUHS website but came up with nothing.

Hey, if you haven't found the housing referral office, try this info.

[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Office location - Building 4/6, 2nd floor, Room 2282.
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Hours - Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m..
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Phone - toll-free 1-(800) 358-6301, local - 301-295-6564, DSN 295-6564.


Here is a website maintained by Naval District Washington which has some additional information and links.

https://www.cnic.navy.mil/ndw/Relocation/ApplyingforHousing/index.htm

And the link to NNMC housing info.

http://www.bethesda.med.navy.mil/visitor/lodging/index.aspx

Hope this helps all of you still working on housing issues.

 

[wahoo98k]

Hey, incoming AF here. I was under the impression from my sponsor student that I don't need to buy any of that until I actually get to COT right? Where did you even get access to those / and how do you know they are regulation?

Also, question for everyone. My EAD orders are saying that I should contact Base Housing Referral Office before I sign any lease agreement to protect me from unscrupulous leases ... did anyone do this yet?? I tried looking for this office on the USUHS website but came up with nothing.

orders + ID = base access.... AAFES uniform shop = regulation clothing

 

[kcmedic]

From what I've read, you don't NEED to have any uniforms, and you will be given time for this at COT. The Uniform Checklist has a list of items that must be purchased by the end of Training Day 1. But I think the consensus has been that it is nice to have your stuff ready when you get there, since we have time now and you won't be as rushed.

Some people on here have said that they were let on the nearest AF base with their orders and a drivers license, others have found an AD member to take them. Clothing Sales on base should know the regs and how the clothing should fit on you. You can also access 36-2903 (the uniform Air Force Instruction) here: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/. Click the "Publications" tab, "Air Force" tab, then click on "Department". You want the 36 series. Navigate to 36-2903 and download the PDF. This contains everything you'd ever want to know about your uniform and appearance standards, and it's illustrated. PM me if you have trouble.

I haven't contacted the housing office, since I haven't started looking for housing yet. You should e-mail or call Rebecca Patterson and ask.

Thanks for the info and that awesome link. 👍

Please email kush and tell him it doesn't work for you either. When I emailed him he said I was the only one out of 40 who it didn't woek for, so I needed to check my typing...

instead of ots.afoats.af.mil (which doesn't exist) try typing in just afoats.af.mil and it redirects you. Strange.

One thing I can't seem to clarify is the "Inprocessing Form" and the welcome package. On the COT website, it says I will receive a welcome package on the first day. Whereas in my EAD orders, it says to complete the inprocessing forms before I arrive. Anyone have any clues?

 

[ahowardmd]

Well, this is the last time I check the USUHS thread before I start driving to Ft. Sam Houston. Thanks for all the advice guys.

 

[Erald Coil]

ATTN: Air Force peeps
This site was just brought to my attention. Check it out before packing for COT; only 19 days left!
😀
http://sites.google.com/site/beforecot/home

 

[Tenbusu]

ATTN: Air Force peeps
This site was just brought to my attention. Check it out before packing for COT; only 19 days left!
😀
http://sites.google.com/site/beforecot/home

Ah yes, even more opinions on mess dress! The welcome package (dated May 09) has the mess dress items all crossed out, but the "personal experience" guide recommends we get it for convenience. Might be time to just bite the bullet and pay up.

Good luck to all of our Army comrades starting training!

 

[kwhata]

Hi all, I just got the call from Dr. Calloway - AF acceptance. I'll probably have lots of questions regarding COT (she said I would be going) and such, but my biggest concern right now is housing. Anybody know a good realtor and good areas around the school? Me and my husband are looking to buy quickly, but we might rent for a few months while house hunting. Thanks!

 

[act9]

Hi all, I just got the call from Dr. Calloway - AF acceptance. I'll probably have lots of questions regarding COT (she said I would be going) and such, but my biggest concern right now is housing. Anybody know a good realtor and good areas around the school? Me and my husband are looking to buy quickly, but we might rent for a few months while house hunting. Thanks!

I know a great realtor who's helping me out too and know the area really well. PM me if you want me to send her name/contact info. I'm renting for a few months before buying as well.

Ah yes, and more questions for the AF ppl: on the uniform checklist it says US insignia (what color?) And specialty badges... What badges? Or since I'm non-prior, do I not have any?

I have 2 more visits to the AF base (taking stuff in for alterations and to have nametapes sewn on) then whatever's left I'll just get once there...

 

[burnettj]

Nevermind! Thanks!

The basic understanding of the DC area, is stay out of DC and don't live on the green metro line, especially if you have families.

D.C. is in the shape of a diamond, and Maryland is to the top of the diamond, and Virginia is towards the bottom half. If you stay to the left side of the Diamond you are in good shape.

I live in the Rockville / Gaithersburg area, and it is quite nice. Other towns to consider are Clarksburg (especially if you have families), Germantown, and Olney. They will be somewhat cheaper than other locations in the area, and many USUHS students and Walter Reed residents live in these areas, especially Clarksburg (they have families). A good realtor for this area is Ken Crowley, who is a ReMax agent in Gaithersburg. They are located adjacent to the Holiday Inn in Gaithersburg.

Hope this helps.

 

[act9]

The basic understanding of the DC area, is stay out of DC and don't live on the green metro line, especially if you have families.

D.C. is in the shape of a diamond, and Maryland is to the top of the diamond, and Virginia is towards the bottom half. If you stay to the left side of the Diamond you are in good shape.

I live in the Rockville / Gaithersburg area, and it is quite nice. Other towns to consider are Clarksburg (especially if you have families), Germantown, and Olney. They will be somewhat cheaper than other locations in the area, and many USUHS students and Walter Reed residents live in these areas, especially Clarksburg (they have families). A good realtor for this area is Ken Crowley, who is a ReMax agent in Gaithersburg. They are located adjacent to the Holiday Inn in Gaithersburg.

Hope this helps.

I live in germantown, but I hate dealing with the traffic on 270 every morning and night. Since I'm trying to stat closer to bethesda naval, I'm looking at silver spring/kensington area. You have to be careful in these areas because there are pockets that aren't as safe, but if you have someone that knows the area, u can find some great places.

 

[Erald Coil]

AF ppl: on the uniform checklist it says US insignia (what color?) And specialty badges... What badges?

Badges? We don't need no stink'n... well, maybe we do.
The US insignia looks like this, and goes on the lapels of our service dress blues. Don't get the ones with the circle around the "U.S.", those are for enlisted.
I do not know what (if any) specialty badge we need... 😕

 

[VanessaC]

Hey Army Peeps:

I have STILL not received my TDY orders. I sent Taylor a message last week. She's dragging her feet... Sent one to Major Coffin who referred me back to Taylor (thanks!).

Sent another email to the Maj yesterday and she said "hang in there." Not so helpful when it's Thursday.

Anyone else still waiting? I'm about to call Taylor and light a fire under her, then I'll be climbing the Major's CoC.

If you're still waiting, let me know, I'll pass that word along as well.

 

[Tenbusu]

Badges? We don't need no stink'n... well, maybe we do.
The US insignia looks like this, and goes on the lapels of our service dress blues. Don't get the ones with the circle around the "U.S.", those are for enlisted.
I do not know what (if any) specialty badge we need... 😕

We wear the medical service corps (MSC) badge until we graduate USUHS, but it is not mandatory. I had it sewn on since my prior enlisted badge is mandatory, and if I don't wear the MSC badge, I'd only have my prior badge which would be confusing. http://www.usamilitarymedals.com/images/MEDICAL_SERV_CRPS_BAS_AFB.jpg

 

[ftrflyr29]

Hey Army Peeps:

I'm about to call Taylor and light a fire under her, then I'll be climbing the Major's CoC.
.

Can't wait to hear how that works out for you.......

Better get used to the "hurry up and wait" drill.

 

[VanessaC]

The good news is that if I miss movement it's a big-time lapse for whomever is in charge of the orders. Hopefully that's enough to ensure I get them by tomorrow.

I wonder how much money is wasted on last minute airline tickets....

 

[wahoo98k]

I live in germantown, but I hate dealing with the traffic on 270 every morning and night. Since I'm trying to stat closer to bethesda naval, I'm looking at silver spring/kensington area. You have to be careful in these areas because there are pockets that aren't as safe, but if you have someone that knows the area, u can find some great places.

dont write out living in VA!! If you have kids fairfax county has some of the best schools in the country (and THE best high school (according to US news)) plus its taxes are lower than MD. Also things that might not be important to some but are definitely to others... VA actually allows you to use your 2nd amendment rights, you dont have to go to a special store to buy beer & wine, and the drivers arent as crazy or dangerous (sorry had to 😛 ). if you plan on going to lecture, traffic going from tysons area to bethesda wont be bad, its a reverse commute, and around 0645 shouldnt be bad at all

 

[ftrflyr29]

The good news is that if I miss movement it's a big-time lapse for whomever is in charge of the orders. Hopefully that's enough to ensure I get them by tomorrow.

I wonder how much money is wasted on last minute airline tickets....

So I was being sarcastic. I guess that didn't come through. You, as a brand new medical service corps officer (who may or may not even be commissioned), "lighting a fire" under one person and "climbing the coc" of a Major is going to do nothing but put a big red dot on your forehead.

If you "miss movement" because they don't get you orders, it's not going to be any skin off anyone's back at this point. You'll just go anther time, perhaps next summer, or when it's convenient for the military. You are a very little fish in a very large sea of bureaucracy. And the "wasted" money on last minute airline tickets equates to nada in the larger scheme of it all.

That being said, if you don't get orders and don't make it, my advice is to just sit back, relax and wait for word. You're just a number at this point and the best place to be is one in the middle that doesn't highlight one's self.

Always remember this saying for the next 11+ years you will spend in the military......"if you wait til the last minute, it only takes a minute."

And my other favorite, .........."indecision is the key to flexibility"

These should help you get started.

 

[kwhata]

For those ppl who are buying houses....does anyone have experience with USAA Movers Advantage? A few ppl gave me names/contacts of what look to be really good realtors, but from what I understand USAA gives you cash back but helps you select a realtor. Any input would be great!

 

[VanessaC]

Thanks ftrflyr26. I appreciate your help.

 

[dru2002]

So I was being sarcastic. I guess that didn't come through. You, as a brand new medical service corps officer (who may or may not even be commissioned), "lighting a fire" under one person and "climbing the coc" of a Major is going to do nothing but put a big red dot on your forehead.

If you "miss movement" because they don't get you orders, it's not going to be any skin off anyone's back at this point. You'll just go anther time, perhaps next summer, or when it's convenient for the military. You are a very little fish in a very large sea of bureaucracy. And the "wasted" money on last minute airline tickets equates to nada in the larger scheme of it all.

That being said, if you don't get orders and don't make it, my advice is to just sit back, relax and wait for word. You're just a number at this point and the best place to be is one in the middle that doesn't highlight one's self.

Always remember this saying for the next 11+ years you will spend in the military......"if you wait til the last minute, it only takes a minute."

And my other favorite, .........."indecision is the key to flexibility"

These should help you get started.

This guy is a wise woman/man. The key to success in the military is to avoid skylining yourself unless it is absolutely necessary. Just look at me I avoided skylining myself and I made it all the way to ensign. 😉

 

[VanessaC]

Thanks ftrflyr26. I appreciate your help.

Pardon, *29.

 

[ftrflyr29]

Thanks ftrflyr26. I appreciate your help.

No problem, just don't want you to have a difficult time from the get-go. There are times that are going to be hard enough anyway, so no need to create more difficulties for yourself.

This guy is a wise woman/man. The key to success in the military is to avoid skylining yourself unless it is absolutely necessary. Just look at me I avoided skylining myself and I made it all the way to ensign. 😉

Thanks--I give this advice, because I've "never" highlighted myself!

 

[VanessaC]

The Med Corps clearly works differently than what is fondly referred to as the "real" Army.

 

[VanessaC]

Kwhata: Have I mentioned how happy I am for you!?!?!

 

[Erald Coil]

Yes congrats Kwhata! Welcome to the AF Family. 🙂

dont write out living in VA!!

This is true. I have a USUHS grad student sister in-law who lives in Tyson's Corner (with husband, no kids) and is very happy with their surroundings. Their main reason for staying on the VA side was taxes and residency, but second amendment respect is also a very good reason to choose VA (coming from TX here). My wife and I chose Rosedale Park Apartments right next to campus for convenience. Something tells me a long commute or traffic road rage would be too much for to cope with on top of daily med school stressors.

edit: also, Google Maps has a traffic function that allows you to view traffic conditions at different days and times - VERY useful in house hunting and commute planning.

 

[VanessaC]

This is true. I have a USUHS grad student sister in-law who lives in Tyson's Corner (with husband, no kids) and is very happy with their surroundings. Their main reason for staying on the VA side was taxes and residency, but second amendment respect is also a very good reason to choose VA (coming from TX here). My wife and I chose Rosedale Park Apartments right next to campus for convenience. Something tells me a long commute or traffic road rage would be too much for to cope with on top of daily med school stressors.

Have any idea what that commute is like? I'm currently looking at property in Md and am also a little concerned about my 2nd amendment (likewise, coming from Texas) but don't want to lose my mind driving to and fro.

 

[VanessaC]

Good call on the Google Maps reference. Hadn't thought of that. Very helpful!

 

[NoMoreAMCAS]

I see a lot of concern over boozing, happy to see it. So what is the difference in Maryland, do they not sell beer in the gas station or grocery store? Do we have to go to "liquor" stores for hard liquor and beer?

 

[VanessaC]

I see a lot of concern over boozing, happy to see it. So what is the difference in Maryland, do they not sell beer in the gas station or grocery store? Do we have to go to "liquor" stores for hard liquor and beer?

No sure, but don't forget about the Class 6!

I can tell you this: the rules vary by county...

 

[NoMoreAMCAS]

No sure, but don't forget about the Class 6!

What's the Class 6?

 

[act9]

I see a lot of concern over boozing, happy to see it. So what is the difference in Maryland, do they not sell beer in the gas station or grocery store? Do we have to go to "liquor" stores for hard liquor and beer?

Montgomery County, MD is the only county that basically monopolizes alcohol sales. All alcohol is sold in specialized stores... And u have to go to 2 separate stores for beer and liquor. But when that's what you've grown up with, it's not so hard. Plus ther are always liquor and beer & wine stores next to the grocery stores...

 

[NoMoreAMCAS]

Montgomery County, MD is the only county that basically monopolizes alcohol sales. All alcohol is sold in specialized stores... And u have to go to 2 separate stores for beer and liquor. But when that's what you've grown up with, it's not so hard. Plus ther are always liquor and beer & wine stores next to the grocery stores...

Oh alright, I can deal with that. I'll just stock up with massive amounts of liquor so I don't have to worry about it very often👍.

 

[VanessaC]

What's the Class 6?

Class 6 (Package store) is the liquor store on post/base.

 

[VanessaC]

It's designated Class VI because alcohol is considered a "luxury/personal demand item" by the military... I personally believe that it should be Class I (along with food).

 

[kwhata]

Kwhata: Have I mentioned how happy I am for you!?!?!

Thanks so much!! And thanks for helping me with next year's apps, but I'm really glad I don't need them now! I had given up hope of getting in this year so the acceptance totally blindsided me and it was the greatest feeling! Can't wait to meet the other AF ppl at COT, and can't wait to meet you at USUHS VanessaC!

 

[Tenbusu]

For those ppl who are buying houses....does anyone have experience with USAA Movers Advantage? A few ppl gave me names/contacts of what look to be really good realtors, but from what I understand USAA gives you cash back but helps you select a realtor. Any input would be great!

I've used mover's advantage a few times. You said that they "help you select a realtor", but in fact you must use one of their program realtors. No big deal, as they have many on their list to choose from. The first time we used the agent we already had, who turned out to be certified under their program. My advice to you is make it clear to USAA the area you are looking in. If they hear "Air Force" and DC area, they may assume you are working at Andrews or the Pentagon and will assign you a realtor accordingly. My last PCS was to a special duty, and they gave me an agent near the closest base, which was 45 minutes away. I had no interest in living there. Luckily the agent didn't mind driving every day to the area we wanted to look in. But he didn't know the area as well as a local agent would have.

 

[Erald Coil]

What day/time are Army peeps supposed to report to Ft. Sam for ODS/OLBCWXYZ or whatever it is...? I know this is kind of random and last-minute, but I live in San Antonio and would be up for meeting a few of "y'all" before you report. Maybe even some BBQ/Beer at mi casa if anyone's interested and timing (and weather) work out.

PM if you're interested and I'll get some plans going. 👍

 

[kwhata]

I've used mover's advantage a few times. You said that they "help you select a realtor", but in fact you must use one of their program realtors. No big deal, as they have many on their list to choose from. The first time we used the agent we already had, who turned out to be certified under their program. My advice to you is make it clear to USAA the area you are looking in. If they hear "Air Force" and DC area, they may assume you are working at Andrews or the Pentagon and will assign you a realtor accordingly. My last PCS was to a special duty, and they gave me an agent near the closest base, which was 45 minutes away. I had no interest in living there. Luckily the agent didn't mind driving every day to the area we wanted to look in. But he didn't know the area as well as a local agent would have.

Thanks for the input. I'm leaning toward getting a local realtor. The only pro to me with Movers Advantage is that you get a little cash back, but I think having a trust-worthy realtor who can really help us through the process is worth whatever money we're going to be missing out on.

 

[kwhata]

For the female AF ppl going to COT: What are you doing about your hair? I know the AF rules, but the "Hair Size -- If the hair is long and must be worn pulled up, the bulk of the hair may not exceed more than 1.25 inches. This includes buns and ponytails" rule is a bit confusing to me. I know I need to get my hair cut - it's down to my waist right now - but I don't know if it would be better to get it cut at a length I like at a salon and put it in a bun or wait till I get there and have it cut real short. I know it seems real vain on top of everything, but I don't want to pay to have it cut and then not meet regulations and have to get it cut again. I've searched online and I've seen things that say you will get a cut there, but I don't really want a chop job either. If anyone else can let me know what they're doing, it would be great!

 

[ftrflyr29]

For the female AF ppl going to COT: What are you doing about your hair? I know the AF rules, but the "Hair Size -- If the hair is long and must be worn pulled up, the bulk of the hair may not exceed more than 1.25 inches. This includes buns and ponytails" rule is a bit confusing to me. I know I need to get my hair cut - it's down to my waist right now - but I don't know if it would be better to get it cut at a length I like at a salon and put it in a bun or wait till I get there and have it cut real short. I know it seems real vain on top of everything, but I don't want to pay to have it cut and then not meet regulations and have to get it cut again. I've searched online and I've seen things that say you will get a cut there, but I don't really want a chop job either. If anyone else can let me know what they're doing, it would be great!

I don't know for sure if they cut it there, but I would recommend getting it cut to a manageable length that allows you to put it up in a quick bun.

Your comment about it being vain.......you are still a girl, so unless you like a very short cut, keep it at a length that will make you happy and still allow you to wear it within regulations. You're not going to boot camp, and you're not going to a service academy, you are going to COT which is what, 4-6 weeks of "knife and fork" school.

According to this website:

http://www.au.af.mil/au/holmcenter/OTS/COT-RCOT/index.asp

-- Trainees should arrive at Commissioned Officer Training with haircuts adhering to AFI 36-2903 standards (Table 1.5 Personal Grooming Standards) AFI 36-2903 Dress & Appearance (click on link for standard).

That would say to me that they will not cut it short. Trust me on this. I did USMC OCS (twice) and one summer I had long hair in a bun, the next summer I cut it, for me, it was MUCH EASIER to have it in the bun. I was able to shower and put it up wet just out of the shower....... and I didn't look like a complete idiot when I was done. Depending on the format of COT, sleep should be your priority--not your hair. I also like to have a little anonymity when not wearing my uniform, so if your hair is long and pulled back at work, when you have it down outside of work, sometimes people don't recognize you.👍

I will say this though--please DO NOT carry a purse that is non-reg in uniform. I just got to have words with an AF 2LT eating lunch the other day who was carrying a GIGANTIC leather purse with silver bling around like she was shopping at the mall, but she wasn't, she was in her flight suit.

If you have girl-type questions please PM me. I'm not AF, but lots of things transcend the services, and after 13 years, I've done some things right and some things wrong.

 

[DrFunke]

For the female AF ppl going to COT: What are you doing about your hair? I know the AF rules, but the "Hair Size -- If the hair is long and must be worn pulled up, the bulk of the hair may not exceed more than 1.25 inches. This includes buns and ponytails" rule is a bit confusing to me. I know I need to get my hair cut - it's down to my waist right now - but I don't know if it would be better to get it cut at a length I like at a salon and put it in a bun or wait till I get there and have it cut real short. I know it seems real vain on top of everything, but I don't want to pay to have it cut and then not meet regulations and have to get it cut again. I've searched online and I've seen things that say you will get a cut there, but I don't really want a chop job either. If anyone else can let me know what they're doing, it would be great!

My hair is about mid-bicep and really thick. I'm not planning on cutting it either. As long as you get it cut to a length where you can easily put it into a bun, you should be fine. I've had long and super short hair and I found it was much easier to throw it up into a bun than to have to worry about styling it when it is short. Just my opinion. I don't think you have to worry too much about the bulk thing. I've never had someone walk up to me with a ruler and measure my hair. As long as it's not a crazy Lady Gaga hair bow, I think you'll be OK. Also, you should google the sock bun. I haven't actually tried this out yet, but I've seen other ladies use it and it looks really clean and professional. Hope that helps!

 

[ftrflyr29]

My hair is about mid-bicep and really thick. I'm not planning on cutting it either. As long as you get it cut to a length where you can easily put it into a bun, you should be fine. I've had long and super short hair and I found it was much easier to throw it up into a bun than to have to worry about styling it when it is short. Just my opinion. I don't think you have to worry too much about the bulk thing. I've never had someone walk up to me with a ruler and measure my hair. As long as it's not a crazy Lady Gaga hair bow, I think you'll be OK. Also, you should google the sock bun. I haven't actually tried this out yet, but I've seen other ladies use it and it looks really clean and professional. Hope that helps!

The sock bun is money.

 

[silverhorse84]

For the female AF ppl going to COT: What are you doing about your hair? I know the AF rules, but the "Hair Size -- If the hair is long and must be worn pulled up, the bulk of the hair may not exceed more than 1.25 inches. This includes buns and ponytails" rule is a bit confusing to me. I know I need to get my hair cut - it's down to my waist right now - but I don't know if it would be better to get it cut at a length I like at a salon and put it in a bun or wait till I get there and have it cut real short. I know it seems real vain on top of everything, but I don't want to pay to have it cut and then not meet regulations and have to get it cut again. I've searched online and I've seen things that say you will get a cut there, but I don't really want a chop job either. If anyone else can let me know what they're doing, it would be great!

You don't have to cut it if you don't want to. While I did not go to COT, we have a girl in our class who did last year and her hair is long enough that she has to move it so she doesn't sit on it. She just puts it up in a bun - a little more difficult for her than others, but definitely do-able.

If you want to get it cut, please please do NOT get it cut on a military base. The people who work there primarily cut men's hair (usually buzz cuts) and do not have a lot of experience with women. Everyone I've talked to has told me to never get my hair cut on base. Go to a salon and get it cut how you want.

Another option is to learn how to french braid if you don't already know how. It works better if you want layers, or you want it shorter but it's still too long for regulations - that's how mine is and braids work perfectly.

 

[act9]

So I'm sitting here going through an old COT checklist (2008 I think) and it keeps mentioning talking to your sponsor... Does anyone have one for COT? I don't have a sponsor at all... Who should I contact?

 

[kcmedic]

ATTN: Air Force peeps
This site was just brought to my attention. Check it out before packing for COT; only 19 days left!
😀
http://sites.google.com/site/beforecot/home

This is amazing

 

[kwhata]

Donated 14 inches to Locks of Love....about 2 inches shorter than I wanted, but it'll grow back and someone has better use for it. Thanks all the ppl who gave me advice!