2009-2010 Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences Application Thread

[ahowardmd]

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I think you are required to complete the courses and graduate. I would assume since Biochem is not a requirement, as long as it doesn't prevent you from graduating, you should be fine. Hypothetically speaking.

Very good to hear!

 

[dwb8p]

Hypothetically, if I get a D in my current biochem class (which is fine for me to graduate from undergrad), will this affect my matriculation to USUHS? 😕

Yeah, don't sweat the D in biochem. By the time USUHS actually finds out, they will have already dropped way too much $$ on you to have any second thoughts about accepting you.

That said-- You will be retaking biochem in the Fall; so it would behoove you to start trying a little harder. Biochem is the worst first year class, and the one most likely to give you academic issues.

 

[ahowardmd]

Yeah, don't sweat the D in biochem. By the time USUHS actually finds out, they will have already dropped way too much $$ on you to have any second thoughts about accepting you.

That said-- You will be retaking biochem in the Fall; so it would behoove you to start trying a little harder. Biochem is the worst first year class, and the one most likely to give you academic issues.

Thanks for the reassurance! I will be on my game in the Fall, I just slacked off a little too much this term due to 'senioritis'.

 

[elmariachi]

Do they ever write orders before an unconditional acceptance is given? In other words, once you are sent orders, does that mean that your acceptance is unconditional?

EDIT The reason I ask is because I have been given orders but I haven't gottne a letter saying I've been unconditionally accepted.

 

[USPatriotPrez]

i received my ACUs too! everything fits well except the patrol cap.. its the same size as my beret but too small for my head.. Andrew i bought from uspatriottactical also.. do you know how their return/exchange policy is like? their website is down for some reason

Can't help but reply - was doing some research on my firm and came across these posts. First of all, I hope your experience with USPatriot has been a pleasant one. Secondly, we apologize but our website was down due to some issues with upgrading our system. Our official return/exchange policy is the following:

Any items which are returned for refund or exchange must be received back within 14 days in a new, unused, and unlaundered condition and with original packing intact, along with all receipts. We strongly recommend you use a insured delivery service as we regret that we cannot be held responsible for goods lost in transit. Please note that if you require goods to be sent out in exchange or return, additional restocking and shipping fees may apply.That being said - we try to work with every customer to ensure that they are satisfied with their experience. We at USPatriot understand soldiers needs because we are all veterans - from Armor officers to CSM from the Rangers - we want to ensure that everyone gets what they need to get the job done.

 

[ahowardmd]

Do they ever write orders before an unconditional acceptance is given? In other words, once you are sent orders, does that mean that your acceptance is unconditional?

EDIT The reason I ask is because I have been given orders but I haven't gottne a letter saying I've been unconditionally accepted.

This is just as assumption, but I imagine USUHS has to have unconditionally accepted you for you to get orders. If I were you, I would call the admissions office first thing Monday morning to find out for sure.

 

[xmsr3]

To any people already at USUHS, could you tell me is there any reason not to get commissioned as early as possible?

I talked with my local Army Medical recruiter and they have told me as soon as I have proof that I'll be attending USUHS I can come in, fill out the paper work and take the oath. I now have my unconditional acceptance, my 1223 form signed by Louise Taylor and my orders to USUHS.

I was hoping to get commissioned today, drive to Ft. McCoy tomorrow to buy my uniforms and get my ID and finish the 3 online courses required of us at OBLC this week, just to get as much out of the way as possible, (going on a long family vacation next week but military comes first🙂

Is there some reason why I should wait, (ie am I violating some written or unwritten rules)?

 

[lockf117]

To any people already at USUHS, could you tell me is there any reason not to get commissioned as early as possible?

I talked with my local Army Medical recruiter and they have told me as soon as I have proof that I'll be attending USUHS I can come in, fill out the paper work and take the oath. I now have my unconditional acceptance, my 1223 form signed by Louise Taylor and my orders to USUHS.

I was hoping to get commissioned today, drive to Ft. McCoy tomorrow to buy my uniforms and get my ID and finish the 3 online courses required of us at OBLC this week, just to get as much out of the way as possible, (going on a long family vacation next week but military comes first🙂

Is there some reason why I should wait, (ie am I violating some written or unwritten rules)?

How/When did you get your Louise Taylor signed 1223?

 

[dwb8p]

To any people already at USUHS, could you tell me is there any reason not to get commissioned as early as possible?

I talked with my local Army Medical recruiter and they have told me as soon as I have proof that I'll be attending USUHS I can come in, fill out the paper work and take the oath. I now have my unconditional acceptance, my 1223 form signed by Louise Taylor and my orders to USUHS.

I was hoping to get commissioned today, drive to Ft. McCoy tomorrow to buy my uniforms and get my ID and finish the 3 online courses required of us at OBLC this week, just to get as much out of the way as possible, (going on a long family vacation next week but military comes first🙂

Is there some reason why I should wait, (ie am I violating some written or unwritten rules)?

Cannot do it. Last year the policy was that you could not date your DA-71 (Oath of Office) sooner than 2 days before your OBLC report date if you flew or 5 days if you drove. It affects your pay. Similar instructions should have been sent out along with your orders and blank DA-71.

Also, good luck on getting an ID before arriving at Ft. Sam. It ain't going to happen. You aren't in their system. It took a week or two AFTER getting to Ft. Sam for most non-priors to get updated in the system.

Just calm down. I know you want to get everything squared away before hand, but you will have plenty of very boring time in Texas to get it all accomplished.

 

[lockf117]

Will there be time to get ASU's there? They said they're going to do an ASU inspection at BOLC this year, I don't know if it's a good idea to order it online.

 

[dwb8p]

Will there be time to get ASU's there? They said they're going to do an ASU inspection at BOLC this year, I don't know if it's a good idea to order it online.

Yup, plenty of time to get fitted for ASUs. That's how most people got them last summer. Also, it's likely that the ASU inspection at OBLC will NOT be for USUHS students, just for the physicians, dentists, vets, etc headed off to their first duty station after just graduating school. That's how it was last summer. We didn't have our first official ASU inspection until October.

 

[xmsr3]

Cannot do it. Last year the policy was that you could not date your DA-71 (Oath of Office) sooner than 2 days before your OBLC report date if you flew or 5 days if you drove. It affects your pay. Similar instructions should have been sent out along with your orders and blank DA-71.

Also, good luck on getting an ID before arriving at Ft. Sam. It ain't going to happen. You aren't in their system. It took a week or two AFTER getting to Ft. Sam for most non-priors to get updated in the system.

Just calm down. I know you want to get everything squared away before hand, but you will have plenty of very boring time in Texas to get it all accomplished.

Oh boy, I may have screwed up (hopefully not too badly since the Army med recruiters didn't mention there being an issue). Went into the recruiter this morning and took my oath. They printed up 2 versions of the DA 71 for me, both reserve and regular army, because I am 7 weeks out from OBLC.

I'll call Louise Taylor tomorrow and find out whats what, (as well as head out to Ft. McCoy and get my uniforms). As for the ID thing, I'll stop by the ID office to make sure, but if that's the way it is so be it.

 

[RunTrix]

I have a question regarding the time period between OBLC and when we report to USUHS. I'm from California and am planning to drive my car and belongings out to USUHS. Since the time between end of OBLC and reporting isn't that long, will the Army have me drive to OBLC and then to USUHS or are they going to fly me to OBLC, then fly me back to California, then have me drive to USUHS from my permanent home?

Any insight, suggestions, or advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[dwb8p]

Oh boy, I may have screwed up (hopefully not too badly since the Army med recruiters didn't mention there being an issue). Went into the recruiter this morning and took my oath. They printed up 2 versions of the DA 71 for me, both reserve and regular army, because I am 7 weeks out from OBLC.

I'll call Louise Taylor tomorrow and find out whats what, (as well as head out to Ft. McCoy and get my uniforms). As for the ID thing, I'll stop by the ID office to make sure, but if that's the way it is so be it.

All that matters is that you have a DA-71 commissioning you into the Regular Army dated a few days before OBLC starts. Every other DA-71 you have is technically invalid, but doesn't matter much because at this point they are just pieces of paper; your recruiters couldn't change anything in the system. Honestly if you are itching that bad to get on base 2 months before your training, those will probably be sufficient (albeit invalid) in getting you through the gates. Just know that you're gonna have to re-oath before OBLC.

Also, speaking of Army recruiters -- I would stop going to them altogether. Just because they are in the Army and recruit med students for HPSP does not mean they know anything about USUHS.

 

[dwb8p]

I have a question regarding the time period between OBLC and when we report to USUHS. I'm from California and am planning to drive my car and belongings out to USUHS. Since the time between end of OBLC and reporting isn't that long, will the Army have me drive to OBLC and then to USUHS or are they going to fly me to OBLC, then fly me back to California, then have me drive to USUHS from my permanent home?

Any insight, suggestions, or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Heh. Many people had this dilemma last year. A great example of how the military does not make a lot of sense sometimes. They will pay for you to fly or drive to OBLC. They will pay for you to fly or drive from OBLC to USUHS. They will also pay for you to drive from your home of record to USUHS after OBLC. But here's the kicker, they technically will not pay for a flight from OBLC to your home of record after OBLC. That's because the orders they issue have you doing OBLC as TDY (temporary duty) enroute to your duty station (USUHS). So, technically you could have them pay for your flight to OBLC and for your drive from California to DC, but you would have to pay for the flight in between from OBLC to California. Having said that -- there were a few people last year who lucked out and when making flight reservations with Carlson Wagonlit (the DoD contracted travel agency) they got representatives who overlooked their orders and mistakingly paid for the return flight from OBLC to home of record. Many others, however, we not as lucky and had to pay their way back home to pick up their car.

My recommendation would be to drive straight from California to OBLC to USUHS. You can arrange to have your household goods shipped out of California before you leave for OBLC or even while you're at OBLC. You don't have to physically be there when the movers come to pick everything up if you have a family member or friend willing to be there.

 

[DrFunke]

My recommendation would be to drive straight from California to OBLC to USUHS. You can arrange to have your household goods shipped out of California before you leave for OBLC or even while you're at OBLC. You don't have to physically be there when the movers come to pick everything up if you have a family member or friend willing to be there.

I second this recommendation. Also, if you are planning on taking a bunch of your stuff w/you to OBLC, you should consider a partial DITY move (do it yourself, now called personally procured move). You can do this in addition to having your stuff shipped. You just have to weigh your car empty, then weigh it full, and then the govt will pay you according to what it would have cost them to move it. It is a good option since you will most likely be carrying additional things with you that the govt would've had to move otherwise. The main thing is that you have to fill out the paperwork with TMO/JPPSO prior to your move to do it. When you schedule your household goods shipment, ask TMO about it. Make sure you ask about a partial, not full DITY, unless you want to move ALL of your stuff yourself.

 

[RunTrix]

Thank you for all the advice! It looks like I'll go with the partial DITY. Is there a website where I can locate the nearest TMO/JPPSO office near me to get all the paperwork started?

 

[dwb8p]

Thank you for all the advice! It looks like I'll go with the partial DITY. Is there a website where I can locate the nearest TMO/JPPSO office near me to get all the paperwork started?

Your closest Army, Navy, or Air Force base will suffice. Hell, even Coast Guard might work; I'm not sure. The transpo office at any of those can get your paperwork started. However, this is all contingent upon you having both your orders to Ft. Sam and orders to USUHS, and getting on base.

 

[PinkNoise]

Anyone recently accepted off the waitlist??

 

[ycyeh1]

Anyone recently accepted off the waitlist??

Good question. Has there been any movement for Navy yet? 😕

 

[xmsr3]

Your closest Army, Navy, or Air Force base will suffice. Hell, even Coast Guard might work; I'm not sure. The transpo office at any of those can get your paperwork started. However, this is all contingent upon you having both your orders to Ft. Sam and orders to USUHS, and getting on base.

Having just come back from a 2 day trip to Fort McCoy to get my uniforms I strongly second this.

It turns out my Army HPSP recruiter was totally wrong about getting commissioned, (invalid since I don't have the appointment yet) and about going to my nearest post to get uniforms, (before I am in the DEER system, so I can't get ID).

I spent the first 2 hours at the security office trying to get a vehicle visitor pass, only got in once they called the CPT that commissioned me, (incorrectly) who vouched that I was a commissioned officer, (which I am not yet).

I did learn a few valuable things however.

1. Its worth trying on the uniforms in person, the sizes that fit me best were not what I expected.

2. Buying the stuff you need for OBLC takes longer than I expected, I spent a good 5-6 hours before I had the entire list purchased. So if you can, buy your uniforms ahead of time so you don't have to rush at Ft. Sam.

2. The folks at the Post Exchange are super helpful with getting the right stuff, ( the women at the alteration store pointed out that my ASU was not only the wrong size but I had grabbed the wrong jacket). I highly recommend seeking their counsel when buying your uniforms.

3. Don't bother going to any Post or Base until you are in the DEER system, unless you want to get an invalid commissioning, (wouldn't have gotten on post without it ironically enough) and spend a good many hours trying to explain why you don't/can't get your military ID.

4. Most importantly, those uniforms are WICKED SWEET! Heck it might be worth joining the Army just to be able to wear an ASU at parties, (a HUGE hit with the ladies I imagine😀

 

[BJHunnicut]

Quick question for anybody who's been to OBC: do they drug-test you at some point while you're there? I need to know because with finals coming up, I might feel the need to pop a Vyvanse here and there, but I don't want to jeopardize my military career right at the beginning! Also, do they even test for these sorts of things? I imagine they would test for pot and such, but not sure if they test for amphetamines and the like. Thanks!

 

[BJHunnicut]

Having just come back from a 2 day trip to Fort McCoy to get my uniforms I strongly second this.

It turns out my Army HPSP recruiter was totally wrong about getting commissioned, (invalid since I don't have the appointment yet) and about going to my nearest post to get uniforms, (before I am in the DEER system, so I can't get ID).

I spent the first 2 hours at the security office trying to get a vehicle visitor pass, only got in once they called the CPT that commissioned me, (incorrectly) who vouched that I was a commissioned officer, (which I am not yet).

I did learn a few valuable things however.

1. Its worth trying on the uniforms in person, the sizes that fit me best were not what I expected.

2. Buying the stuff you need for OBLC takes longer than I expected, I spent a good 5-6 hours before I had the entire list purchased. So if you can, buy your uniforms ahead of time so you don't have to rush at Ft. Sam.

2. The folks at the Post Exchange are super helpful with getting the right stuff, ( the women at the alteration store pointed out that my ASU was not only the wrong size but I had grabbed the wrong jacket). I highly recommend seeking their counsel when buying your uniforms.

3. Don't bother going to any Post or Base until you are in the DEER system, unless you want to get an invalid commissioning, (wouldn't have gotten on post without it ironically enough) and spend a good many hours trying to explain why you don't/can't get your military ID.

4. Most importantly, those uniforms are WICKED SWEET! Heck it might be worth joining the Army just to be able to wear an ASU at parties, (a HUGE hit with the ladies I imagine😀

Funny, I've been following this thread for a while, and I believe somebody told you before that you would have trouble getting on base/getting an ID.

So were the uniforms you ended up getting bigger or smaller than the recommended? I've been looking at getting uniforms online, and my plan was to use the size charts that are on the websites. I guess maybe I'll hold off on buying uniforms until I can try them on personally.

 

[NavyCy]

Quick question for anybody who's been to OBC: do they drug-test you at some point while you're there? I need to know because with finals coming up, I might feel the need to pop a Vyvanse here and there, but I don't want to jeopardize my military career right at the beginning! Also, do they even test for these sorts of things? I imagine they would test for pot and such, but not sure if they test for amphetamines and the like. Thanks!

In short, yes, you will be tested, probably the first day, and then randomly for the remainder of your time in the military. And yes, the military tests for marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines every time since those are the most commonly abused drugs. Other drugs are randomly screened for or can be requested by your commander (steroids in particular).

 

[Tenbusu]

Quick question for anybody who's been to OBC: do they drug-test you at some point while you're there? I need to know because with finals coming up, I might feel the need to pop a Vyvanse here and there, but I don't want to jeopardize my military career right at the beginning! Also, do they even test for these sorts of things? I imagine they would test for pot and such, but not sure if they test for amphetamines and the like. Thanks!

The drug policy in the AF at least is so restrictive it's almost ridiculous. A guy in my unit took one of his wife's percocets when he hurt his ankle, thinking he'd tough it out till he saw the Flight Doc on Monday. He was randomly tested that day, and lost a stripe over it. I've also been to 0600 Saturday unit-wide piss test sessions to bust Ecstasy users. Great fun, especially when you're on the "observer" end. Anything that doesn't come from YOUR doctor or OTC can result in disciplinary action. Not sure how long Vyvanse can be detected, but I wouldn't risk it.

 

[ahowardmd]

In short, yes, you will be tested, probably the first day, and then randomly for the remainder of your time in the military. And yes, the military tests for marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines every time since those are the most commonly abused drugs. Other drugs are randomly screened for or can be requested by your commander (steroids in particular).

Good information to know for all premeds.

 

[BJHunnicut]

In short, yes, you will be tested, probably the first day, and then randomly for the remainder of your time in the military. And yes, the military tests for marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines every time since those are the most commonly abused drugs. Other drugs are randomly screened for or can be requested by your commander (steroids in particular).

The drug policy in the AF at least is so restrictive it's almost ridiculous. A guy in my unit took one of his wife's percocets when he hurt his ankle, thinking he'd tough it out till he saw the Flight Doc on Monday. He was randomly tested that day, and lost a stripe over it. I've also been to 0600 Saturday unit-wide piss test sessions to bust Ecstasy users. Great fun, especially when you're on the "observer" end. Anything that doesn't come from YOUR doctor or OTC can result in disciplinary action. Not sure how long Vyvanse can be detected, but I wouldn't risk it.

Thanks for the heads up, I guess I'll just be drinking coffee in large amounts.

 

[dwb8p]

.

 

[act9]

I'm trying to be patient and not harass the admissions people right now, esp since they said I won't hear anything until May 15th, so I hope someone on here can shed some light...

I received a letter a couple days ago stating "You are currently on the waiting list for a place in the Uniformed services..." next paragraph clarifying "Placement on the waiting list is different from selection as an alternate." ok, I get all this... later in the letter it says I still have to get something in for my physical etc. So.. here's my question: I thought they couldn't do anything with my application until I had all my forms for my physical in and had qualified (that's the impression they gave me at the interview)... so am I actually on the waitlist or is this more like the "we're waiting-- you have to get your forms in before we even look at your application again seriously" list? I guess in the end it doesn't matter until May 15th.. at that point, they told us, there will actually be movement on the waiting lists, but not much before then. I just hope that if I get in, I find out before the officer trainings. I'm a non-prior and feel like I will be lost if I have to show up straight to USUHS...

thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this (or just give me some hope), and I hope to see some of you in Bethesda next year...

 

[ahowardmd]

They can definitely accept/waitlist you before you're medically qualified. I got my conditional acceptance before I had done my remedials and got qualified...however this stuff needs to be finished to get the unconditional acceptance.

 

[silverhorse84]

I'm trying to be patient and not harass the admissions people right now, esp since they said I won't hear anything until May 15th, so I hope someone on here can shed some light...

I received a letter a couple days ago stating "You are currently on the waiting list for a place in the Uniformed services..." next paragraph clarifying "Placement on the waiting list is different from selection as an alternate." ok, I get all this... later in the letter it says I still have to get something in for my physical etc. So.. here's my question: I thought they couldn't do anything with my application until I had all my forms for my physical in and had qualified (that's the impression they gave me at the interview)... so am I actually on the waitlist or is this more like the "we're waiting-- you have to get your forms in before we even look at your application again seriously" list? I guess in the end it doesn't matter until May 15th.. at that point, they told us, there will actually be movement on the waiting lists, but not much before then. I just hope that if I get in, I find out before the officer trainings. I'm a non-prior and feel like I will be lost if I have to show up straight to USUHS...

thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this (or just give me some hope), and I hope to see some of you in Bethesda next year...

Ok, so first of all waitlist is better than alternate list in case you didn't know that.
If I understand what you're asking, then you're slightly incorrect - you can be accepted before you're physically qualified through DoDMERB. I got my unconditional acceptance a good 5 months before my conditional acceptance because of some remedials I had to complete.
Getting the unconditional acceptance basically says "we've accepted that you're a good student and can handle our school so long as you're medically qualified through DoDMERB." They can rescind your acceptance if they disqualify you and do not accept your waiver - it happened to the sponsoree I was assigned last December, and now I'm waiting for them to accept someone else to get a new sponsoree.

They don't look at whether you're physically qualified when making a decision to accept you.

Oh, and several people every year don't go to officer training because they were accepted too late - it's not a big deal, you'll do an abridged version later, and your sponsor can help you with how to wear your uniform so you don't look like a complete idiot 😛

 

[ahowardmd]

Ok, so first of all waitlist is better than alternate list in case you didn't know that.
If I understand what you're asking, then you're slightly incorrect - you can be accepted before you're physically qualified through DoDMERB. I got my unconditional acceptance a good 5 months before my conditional acceptance because of some remedials I had to complete.
Getting the unconditional acceptance basically says "we've accepted that you're a good student and can handle our school so long as you're medically qualified through DoDMERB." They can rescind your acceptance if they disqualify you and do not accept your waiver - it happened to the sponsoree I was assigned last December, and now I'm waiting for them to accept someone else to get a new sponsoree.

They don't look at whether you're physically qualified when making a decision to accept you.

Oh, and several people every year don't go to officer training because they were accepted too late - it's not a big deal, you'll do an abridged version later, and your sponsor can help you with how to wear your uniform so you don't look like a complete idiot 😛

This sponsor you speak of...am I supposed to have one? I remember an MS1 calling me earlier this year to ask if I had any questions, but I don't remember who he was.

 

[act9]

Yes, I did know waitlist is better than alternate.. so when it was specifically referred to in the letter I got a sudden good feeling🙂 I also have been medically qualified since the date of the letter, which had me confused, but I guess the letter was sent from admissions before they got the medical status update a day or so later. So now that I'm qualified, I was just confirming that meant I am simply on the waitlist waiting for May 1st. Praying a spot opens up for me... Thanks everyone🙂

 

[Creed132]

I'm trying to be patient and not harass the admissions people right now, esp since they said I won't hear anything until May 15th, so I hope someone on here can shed some light...

I received a letter a couple days ago stating "You are currently on the waiting list for a place in the Uniformed services..." next paragraph clarifying "Placement on the waiting list is different from selection as an alternate." ok, I get all this... later in the letter it says I still have to get something in for my physical etc. So.. here's my question: I thought they couldn't do anything with my application until I had all my forms for my physical in and had qualified (that's the impression they gave me at the interview)... so am I actually on the waitlist or is this more like the "we're waiting-- you have to get your forms in before we even look at your application again seriously" list? I guess in the end it doesn't matter until May 15th.. at that point, they told us, there will actually be movement on the waiting lists, but not much before then. I just hope that if I get in, I find out before the officer trainings. I'm a non-prior and feel like I will be lost if I have to show up straight to USUHS...

thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this (or just give me some hope), and I hope to see some of you in Bethesda next year...

Just out of curiosity, was your waitlist letter dated before or after April 15th? I know that when I interviewed (the last day) they told us to hurry and get our physicals completed because they can't offer conditional acceptances (or waitlists) after April 15th.

 

[act9]

Just out of curiosity, was your waitlist letter dated before or after April 15th? I know that when I interviewed (the last day) they told us to hurry and get our physicals completed because they can't offer conditional acceptances (or waitlists) after April 15th.

That's really interesting, because when I interviewed mid-February thy specifically told us that we were interviewing for the waitlist (unless you were MD/PhD or public health) and we wouldn't hear ANYthing until mid-May. Hence the confusion when I got a letter saying I was on the waiting list already. The letter was dated April 15th, which was the day I was contacted to say my status had been updated to qualified.

 

[xmsr3]

Quick question for USUHS Army folk. The camel back they have on the "buy for OBLC" list, there are 2 major kinds we can buy, the smaller 3L variety and the big backpack that holds 3L as well.

In the context of field training which is better to own? Is the bigger backpack useful for lugging field gear? Or is the larger pack just a hinderance since they make you use one of their packs, in which case the smaller camelback, (which seems to be able to go over a bigger pack) is better?

I overheard some Army guys talking over at Ft. McCoy about camelbacks and one said that the bigger packs could make awesome backpacks for school and his friend seemed to agree that bigger was better.

Anyone who has done OBLC care to give their two cents?

 

[silverhorse84]

This sponsor you speak of...am I supposed to have one? I remember an MS1 calling me earlier this year to ask if I had any questions, but I don't remember who he was.

He's probably your sponsor. He may contact you again when it gets closer to summer and things happening. Usually people contact their sponsorees by email so you have a good way of contacting us later on, but it's totally up to the sponsor. If you don't hear from him before you leave for OBLC/COT/ODS (if you're going), then when you get to usuhs you may want to find out who he is. During orientation, one of the days is a sponsor/sponsoree lunch

Just out of curiosity, was your waitlist letter dated before or after April 15th? I know that when I interviewed (the last day) they told us to hurry and get our physicals completed because they can't offer conditional acceptances (or waitlists) after April 15th.

They definitely offer conditional acceptances after April 15. May 15 is the deadline for people to hold only 1 acceptance, so there tends to be a lot of waitlist movement after that. We had people getting acceptance letters all the way up to the week before reporting to usuhs (first week of August).
It might be that they don't add to the waitlist after Apr 15, but you don't have to have your physical stuff completed to get on the waitlist, so I'm not sure what they're talking about. They tend to emphasize getting the physical stuff done early no matter when you interview.

 

[stevesavi]

Quick question for USUHS Army folk. The camel back they have on the "buy for OBLC" list, there are 2 major kinds we can buy, the smaller 3L variety and the big backpack that holds 3L as well.

In the context of field training which is better to own? Is the bigger backpack useful for lugging field gear? Or is the larger pack just a hinderance since they make you use one of their packs, in which case the smaller camelback, (which seems to be able to go over a bigger pack) is better?

I overheard some Army guys talking over at Ft. McCoy about camelbacks and one said that the bigger packs could make awesome backpacks for school and his friend seemed to agree that bigger was better.

Anyone who has done OBLC care to give their two cents?

Though I have not done OBLC I have done quite a bit of field training with the army (4yrs enlisted 1.5 w/ 1AD, 4 yrs ROTC) and all field training exercises of the introductory type are basically the same. My feeling is always less is more and smaller is better. If you want to use it as a pack for school later than the bigger pack may serve that purpose, but as for the field we will likely be carrying an issued ruck or assault pack (or both) and I find it preferable to minimize the weight and bulk that I have to carry.

 

[act9]

Alright, another question I have for you all (sorry, I have too much time on my hands to be really anxious about this): I put down Navy as my first choice, though I ranked Air Force and Army as 2nd and 3rd choice, will accept orders from. Apparently my spot on the waitlist is only held on the service I selected as my first choice... is there a way to be on whichever one moves faster (or all 3) or does it really matter? (I am equally interested in Navy or Air Force-- non-prior, so it doesn't matter as much to me) Who do I email about switching lists if I need to? also, How do they rank the waiting list? is it simply by whoever interviewed first, random, or do they put people in a specific order based on grades, scores, etc? I know, lots of questions...

thanks everyone, crossing my fingers...

 

[xmsr3]

Sorry for the stupid question, but for our ACU name tapes and ASU name plates do we put our full name or just last name?

 

[I Doctor]

For those who have been to OBLC...do we really need two pairs of boots?

Also did anyone get their ASU yet?

 

[ahowardmd]

Sorry for the stupid question, but for our ACU name tapes and ASU name plates do we put our full name or just last name?

Last name.

 

[silverhorse84]

For those who have been to OBLC...do we really need two pairs of boots?

Also did anyone get their ASU yet?

So I can't answer for OBLC specifically, but when you get to school, you'll get lectures ad nauseam about having 2 pairs of boots and breaking them in before the summer experience between 1st and 2nd year. It might be nice to start the breaking in process at OBLC.

 

[PinkNoise]

1. I thought the official date to hold 1 spot at a school was April 15th. I'm relieved now that I know it's May 15th because there is still hope!

2. It's been past the 10 weeks that we're supposed to hear back about our acceptance on a waitlist. Should I contact the admissions office or keep running home everyday to check the mail?

3. FYI When I interviewed mid-Feb. it was stressed that that those who have their DoDMerb/physical paperwork in will be accepted off of the waitlist before those who did not. So if you're sitting higher up on the waitlist, but do not have all of your paperwork completed, someone below you may receive conditional acceptance instead.

4. I hope I get in.

 

[stevesavi]

It seems like everyone is getting told to get acu's.
Any word on when usuhs army is going to the multicam uniform?

edit: Ive been in cadet command four four years and am pretty insulated from the real army, Im not sure how prolific this new uniform is. A buddy mentioned we had changed again and it was the first I had heard about it.

 

[act9]

1. I thought the official date to hold 1 spot at a school was April 15th. I'm relieved now that I know it's May 15th because there is still hope!

2. It's been past the 10 weeks that we're supposed to hear back about our acceptance on a waitlist. Should I contact the admissions office or keep running home everyday to check the mail?

3. FYI When I interviewed mid-Feb. it was stressed that that those who have their DoDMerb/physical paperwork in will be accepted off of the waitlist before those who did. So if you're sitting higher up on the waitlist, but do not have all of your paperwork completed, someone below you may receive conditional acceptance instead.

4. I hope I get in.

I interviewed mid-Feb too-- prob was on the same inteview as you... I got a letter in the mail dated April 15th saying I was on the waitlist. However, when I called (to check about them updating my status to qualified medically) they didn't even attempt to look up my file to check and see if it had been properly updated. not sure if you'll have any more luck than me by calling next week, but I have a feeling you'll hear from your mailbox before you get info from a phone call at this moment. They stressed that they won't know anything until May 15th (frankly, I think she just didn't want to deal with anyone on this beautiful Friday🙂)

 

[xmsr3]

To anyone who has done partial DITY:

1. The partial DITY payment is instead of the regular TDY POV payment correct? Or do you get both?

2. Will the travel office on our nearest post mail the forms we need to fill out or do we need to pick them up in person?

3. Can you give us an idea of the what uncle sam pays in terms of $/lb and or $/mile? If you have done DITY could you let us know how much stuff you took and how far and how much they paid you for it?

4. Do they allow personal workout equipment, such as those involved with weight training, ie dumbells, kettlebells, ect? (I am taking my 3 kettlebells with me regardless but I would love for Uncle Sam to pay me for all 167 lbs of weight🙂

Thanks for any info you can share.

 

[ftrflyr29]

To anyone who has done partial DITY:

1. The partial DITY payment is instead of the regular TDY POV payment correct? Or do you get both?

2. Will the travel office on our nearest post mail the forms we need to fill out or do we need to pick them up in person?

3. Can you give us an idea of the what uncle sam pays in terms of $/lb and or $/mile? If you have done DITY could you let us know how much stuff you took and how far and how much they paid you for it?

4. Do they allow personal workout equipment, such as those involved with weight training, ie dumbells, kettlebells, ect? (I am taking my 3 kettlebells with me regardless but I would love for Uncle Sam to pay me for all 167 lbs of weight🙂

Thanks for any info you can share.

1. No idea

2. When you set up your TMO move, you tell them you want to do a partial dity also and they give you the forms and instructions

3. No idea the $ figures. See 4. below.

4. ALWAYS do a partial dity (personally not a big fan of the full dity and will NEVER do it). You weigh your car empty (so.....make sure the gas tank is empty, the spare tire and anything else heavy is out and there are no people in it). Then you weigh your car full of stuff (including gas, spare tire, stuff, people--yes your kettlebells if you are so inclined) and they pay you the rate--whatever that is.

I have known people who put ridiculously heavy things in the back of trucks--water drums full of water, etc. I'm not saying defraud the government, but they don't care what's in it.

Another thing to consider......if you rent a trailer, they pay you for the rental fee, but not the weight of the trailer, just the weight of your stuff. If you buy the trailer, they pay your for the cost (I think), but also the weight of the trailer including your stuff. I know many who take advantage of this--buy the trailer, fill it full of crap, weigh it, get paid, then sell it at their destination. I have never done this so don't know the specifics.........

 

[DrFunke]

To anyone who has done partial DITY:

1. The partial DITY payment is instead of the regular TDY POV payment correct? Or do you get both?

2. Will the travel office on our nearest post mail the forms we need to fill out or do we need to pick them up in person?

3. Can you give us an idea of the what uncle sam pays in terms of $/lb and or $/mile? If you have done DITY could you let us know how much stuff you took and how far and how much they paid you for it?

4. Do they allow personal workout equipment, such as those involved with weight training, ie dumbells, kettlebells, ect? (I am taking my 3 kettlebells with me regardless but I would love for Uncle Sam to pay me for all 167 lbs of weight🙂

Thanks for any info you can share.

1. You get both.

3. Don't remember $, but they will give you an estimate of how much money you will receive after you fill out the paperwork and it is approved. My last move, I filled my entire SUV, even had the passenger side full of stuff. It was really not so safe... I don't suggest anyone do this.

4. You can put anything in the car that you want. (Kettlebells are awesome!)

 

[PinkNoise]

I interviewed mid-Feb too-- prob was on the same inteview as you... I got a letter in the mail dated April 15th saying I was on the waitlist. However, when I called (to check about them updating my status to qualified medically) they didn't even attempt to look up my file to check and see if it had been properly updated. not sure if you'll have any more luck than me by calling next week, but I have a feeling you'll hear from your mailbox before you get info from a phone call at this moment. They stressed that they won't know anything until May 15th (frankly, I think she just didn't want to deal with anyone on this beautiful Friday🙂)

When did you receive your waitlist letter? I'll wait another week for my letter. Thanks so much for the info! Good luck and keep us posted on your status!