Army National Guard's new Med student program details.

[coldhardsteel]

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Has anyone had any problems receiving their pay for the month of April? Two weeks ago, my contact said that there was a problem and to expect back pay for the month of April by May 1. This wasn't a problem, then today I only received $1,406.86 into my bank account. April is my first month of ASR so I was expecting ~$3300-$3400 before taxes. Also, I'm going to Mobile, AL for my first drill weekend to get my uniform, boots, fill out paperwork, etc. Any of you guys going to make it down?

 

[eflix]

For those who've commissioned, when in the process did you choose your CO - or did your recruiter choose one for you? My recruiter just offered me a choice of drilling locations and I am wondering if I should choose the one closest to me or ask around to see who the CO's are at each one and see how they are. I haven't sworn in yet - I'm scheduled to do that in two weeks and am planning to despite not knowing about ASR slots.

 

[notdeadyet]

For those who've commissioned, when in the process did you choose your CO - or did your recruiter choose one for you? My recruiter just offered me a choice of drilling locations and I am wondering if I should choose the one closest to me or ask around to see who the CO's are at each one and see how they are.

I was given a choice and ended up choosing one that is a 1-1/2 hour drive away instead of one that is 15 minutes away.

You can ask around, but I don't know how much actual value you're going to get. What I think is much more valuable is asking to speak to each of the COs to make your decision.

Keep in mind that the "flexi-training" thing is up to the CO. So if you get with a CO who doesn't approve of it, you could theoretically be required to drill every month, which could be disastrous in medical school.

I doubt that often happens, but I think it pays to have a conversation with the CO to find out what the unit is about, what they do, what the drilling would usually be composed of, and what role you'd play. Explain your particular situation and see if it would be a good fit.

 

[EMH]

Agreed. I would absolutely recommend picking based on the unit and not location. Try to get in a medical unit and/or talk with the CO of the unit. You can usually tell in a 3 minute phone call if someone is going to be a pain in the arse or not.

I was given a choice and ended up choosing one that is a 1-1/2 hour drive away instead of one that is 15 minutes away.

You can ask around, but I don't know how much actual value you're going to get. What I think is much more valuable is asking to speak to each of the COs to make your decision.

Keep in mind that the "flexi-training" thing is up to the CO. So if you get with a CO who doesn't approve of it, you could theoretically be required to drill every month, which could be disastrous in medical school.

I doubt that often happens, but I think it pays to have a conversation with the CO to find out what the unit is about, what they do, what the drilling would usually be composed of, and what role you'd play. Explain your particular situation and see if it would be a good fit.

 

[iatrosB]

Agreed. I would absolutely recommend picking based on the unit and not location. Try to get in a medical unit and/or talk with the CO of the unit. You can usually tell in a 3 minute phone call if someone is going to be a pain in the arse or not.

I concur...I actually drill about 3 1/2 hours away from my house.

 

[tech2doc]

Since OBLC for RC officers is full this summer, do you think they would allow us to do the OBLC for HPSP? In the course catalog it labels it "OBLC HPSP/RC". It's the same 6-8-C20 course...

http://www.cs.amedd.army.mil/courses/SCHOOL_CAT_FY09_9_jan_09.pdf

 

[eflix]

The HPSP/RC course is different in length though - 6 weeks, so it's longer than what we have to take.

 

[eflix]

Though, I am wondering, do we have to complete OBLC before we take other courses - say, the flight surgeon or C4 courses? I know i have some time this summer, so if I can't take OBLC, I'd love to take something else.

 

[tech2doc]

I understand that it's 6 weeks and longer than what we're required to take. That just makes me think that they cover more topics. I'm fine with that. I'm just wondering if we would be able to take that if there are open spots. Honestly, I think I'd like to take a longer course. I heard that in the RC course, you don't actually get M16 certified because there's not enough time (can someone tell me if that's true?).

 

[notdeadyet]

I understand that it's 6 weeks and longer than what we're required to take. That just makes me think that they cover more topics. I'm fine with that. I'm just wondering if we would be able to take that if there are open spots.

I have no idea. I'd be curious to see if they'd let you. My understanding is that for the Guard, the state has to pony up for any and all training you take. I would think they'd be reluctant to pay for what I assume would be a higher cost training.

Honestly, I think I'd like to take a longer course. I heard that in the RC course, you don't actually get M16 certified because there's not enough time (can someone tell me if that's true?).

A few folks who've been through OBLC can let you know if there's any truth to that. But I wouldn't sweat getting certified on the M16. I've had two chances to do this just through drill. It won't be a problem for you in the big picture.

 

[CalGuardASR]

I'm looking for a MDSSP that's currently in school. Anyone reading this, regardless of which state you're in, I need to get a current MDSSP contact. Thanks

 

[punkiedad]

I understand that it's 6 weeks and longer than what we're required to take. That just makes me think that they cover more topics. I'm fine with that. I'm just wondering if we would be able to take that if there are open spots. Honestly, I think I'd like to take a longer course. I heard that in the RC course, you don't actually get M16 certified because there's not enough time (can someone tell me if that's true?).

Doubtful. Makes too much sense

 

[koojo]

I understand that it's 6 weeks and longer than what we're required to take. That just makes me think that they cover more topics. I'm fine with that. I'm just wondering if we would be able to take that if there are open spots. Honestly, I think I'd like to take a longer course. I heard that in the RC course, you don't actually get M16 certified because there's not enough time (can someone tell me if that's true?).

Weapons qualifications are only really good for a year. When you get to your home unit you WILL qualify with M9's and the M4. Don't worry about doing it at school.

 

[tech2doc]

I ran it by my recruiter and she said she would check with the training department tomorrow to see if they will pay for it. I'll be sure to keep you guys updated. It would be really nice to finish OBLC before I begin first year. That way I could collect the GI Bill-SR fully and actually know somewhat of what I'm doing and why when I go to drill whether than learning as I go.

 

[soldier2surgeon]

I understand that it's 6 weeks and longer than what we're required to take. That just makes me think that they cover more topics. I'm fine with that. I'm just wondering if we would be able to take that if there are open spots. Honestly, I think I'd like to take a longer course. I heard that in the RC course, you don't actually get M16 certified because there's not enough time (can someone tell me if that's true?).

The Program of Instruction (POI) for Basic Rifle Marksmanship (BRM) takes about 10 days to do properly. Here’s how they do it at BCT on Ft. Knox:

BRM 1 – Weapon Familiarization
BRM 2/3 – Mini range and EST
BRM 4 – Group
BRM 5 Zero
BRM 6 Field Fire
BRM 7 Field Fire
BRM 8/9 Field Fire (EST2000)
BRM 11 Practice Qualification
BRM 12 Practice Qualification
BRM 13 Qualification

I am the planner for ROTC’s Leader’s Training Course at Fort Knox. The whole course is a 29 day POI, and we don’t have time to do a full weapon’s qualification, just familiarization. Any course that is similar in length will have similar constraints on BRM.

 

[Luke4202]

I've decided I want to get my app together in case those 200 new slots open up in October. Unfortunately, I'm having a hell of a time trying to get a recruiter to contact me. I've called or e-mailed 4 different people with no response. Any advice? I live in Kansas.

 

[eflix]

I've decided I want to get my app together in case those 200 new slots open up in October. Unfortunately, I'm having a hell of a time trying to get a recruiter to contact me. I've called or e-mailed 4 different people with no response. Any advice? I live in Kansas.

I've PMed you with contact info for a national recruiter many on this board have used - I ended up using my local state recruiter, but many others have had good experiences with him and they may contact you directly too.

I signed an ASR form that said I would start July 1 2010, so it looks like that is where we are on the waiting list right now. No control number yet, but my recruiter's working on that.

 

[Barium56]

My recruiter has been fairly quiet for about the last 2 weeks. I think he has been at a conference in San Antonio. Today he wrote my buddy and me an email and he vaguely said that they are "expanding the ASR program." I don't know exactly what he means but hopefully I can find out the details soon. I hope it means that they will be opening 200 new slots for next year. I would really like to get in.

 

[EMH]

My recruiter has been fairly quiet for about the last 2 weeks. I think he has been at a conference in San Antonio. Today he wrote my buddy and me an email and he vaguely said that they are "expanding the ASR program." I don't know exactly what he means but hopefully I can find out the details soon. I hope it means that they will be opening 200 new slots for next year. I would really like to get in.

Totally speculating here but I'd guess it's going to be to include RN students as well as increase the # of spots. (just wanted to get my prediction on paper).

 

[iatrosB]

Totally speculating here but I'd guess it's going to be to include RN students as well as increase the # of spots. (just wanted to get my prediction on paper).

Hopefully it will include residents yeah right

 

[del Sol DOHC]

As soon as I have an unconditional acceptance letter to a med school, could I begin applying for ASR even if I have not yet completed my bachelors? I know that the Guard will allow some people to commission without a bachelors as long as they have at least 90 credit hours, but will they allow a commission into a 00E67 (medical student) slot?

 

[punkiedad]

As soon as I have an unconditional acceptance letter to a med school, could I begin applying for ASR even if I have not yet completed my bachelors? I know that the Guard will allow some people to commission without a bachelors as long as they have at least 90 credit hours, but will they allow a commission into a 00E67 (medical student) slot?

Good question. I don't know the entire answer but I do know you need an unconditiona letter of acceptance, which is dependant on your school. Specifically, my acceptance letter stated that I needed some more BIO credits. Even though I had the acceptance letter AND my official BIO transcripts, the National Guard would not accept it. I needed the admissions rep write a specific letter to my recruiter on letterhead etc, which they do not do. I actually had to go there myself, etc. It was a really big hassle, but effective nonetheless.

So, long winded, but hopefully helpful. My guess is it would depend on how your acceptance letter is worded (is the word is contingent is used.....no way).

Best to ask your recruiter for sure, but I would still get all of your ducks in a row with references, LORs, packet, etc....

Good luck

 

[del Sol DOHC]

Good question. I don't know the entire answer but I do know you need an unconditiona letter of acceptance, which is dependant on your school. Specifically, my acceptance letter stated that I needed some more BIO credits. Even though I had the acceptance letter AND my official BIO transcripts, the National Guard would not accept it. I needed the admissions rep write a specific letter to my recruiter on letterhead etc, which they do not do. I actually had to go there myself, etc. It was a really big hassle, but effective nonetheless.

So, long winded, but hopefully helpful. My guess is it would depend on how your acceptance letter is worded (is the word is contingent is used.....no way).

Best to ask your recruiter for sure, but I would still get all of your ducks in a row with references, LORs, packet, etc....

Good luck

Thank you for the response, punkiedad. I was just wondering if it would be possible for me to go ahead and start drilling, but I guess I will have to contact the recruiter.

 

[punkiedad]

Thank you for the response, punkiedad. I was just wondering if it would be possible for me to go ahead and start drilling, but I guess I will have to contact the recruiter.

Well, when you phrase it that way it makes me think a littel differently. Are you willing to join the Guard and get ASR if and when available? you could join now then take on ASR???

Anyone else know the logistics of this? I know when I got my control number, they put me down as ASR and MDSSP. Is it possible to take MDSSP first then transfer to ASR when a spot opens up??

don't give up del sol...get the paprwork going and then you will have options either way.

 

[tsbuqh]

If you take MDSSP first, then you disqualify yourself for ASR. The reason for this is that the MDSSP and STRAP rules say if you plan to take a limited amount of MDSSP or STRAP then you have to calculate your start date back from end of medical school or residency. So once you start taking MDSSP you are commiting to taking it for the rest of medical school, and are hence unavailble for ASR.

You can however just do regular drill unit a spot opens up. I myself am on the waiting list, I commisioned without the guarentee of an ASR control #. It is a gamble that each person will have to figure out for themselves.

 

[ohio23]

Just an update-- I made it past the 8 May 09 USAREC Board and am elgibile for commission! Today we're requesting my control number. Or rather we're requesting a place on the waitlist for a control number.

For those in the paperwork jungle, keep chugging along. You'll make it eventually. I sent my first email inquiry January 12. So give yourself a few months even if you don't need waivers or have unique circumstances.

 

[eflix]

Just an update-- I made it past the 8 May 09 USAREC Board and am elgibile for commission! Today we're requesting my control number. Or rather we're requesting a place on the waitlist for a control number.

For those in the paperwork jungle, keep chugging along. You'll make it eventually. I sent my first email inquiry January 12. So give yourself a few months even if you don't need waivers or have unique circumstances.

Congrats ohio23! I'm in the same situation and will be commissioning tomorrow at the fed rec board. I signed an official looking ASR paper saying I would start 1 July 2010 (without a control number), but my recruiter says hopefully I'll be able to start earlier because NGB is requesting more funds.

My first email was on March 13, so it looks like it can take as short as 2 months. The time could've been even shorter if my LORs had come in quickly, so that was a factor slowing it down as well as the infrequent meetings of USAREC.

 

[AlphaPower]

Congrats ohio23! I'm in the same situation and will be commissioning tomorrow at the fed rec board. I signed an official looking ASR paper saying I would start 1 July 2010 (without a control number), but my recruiter says hopefully I'll be able to start earlier because NGB is requesting more funds.

My first email was on March 13, so it looks like it can take as short as 2 months. The time could've been even shorter if my LORs had come in quickly, so that was a factor slowing it down as well as the infrequent meetings of USAREC.

Congratulations you guys. When you get your waitlist numbers, can you update us on how many are on there already?

 

[ohio23]

Congratulations you guys. When you get your waitlist numbers, can you update us on how many are on there already?

Last I heard (today) they were at 21 waitlisters. The new list with all the 8 May USAREC folks should be out next week.

 

[soldier2surgeon]

There are currently 38 people on the waiting list. If there are no new slots, #38 will see a slot open up 8/14/2010.

 

[notdeadyet]

There are currently 38 people on the waiting list. If there are no new slots, #38 will see a slot open up 8/14/2010.

Does that mean a 1 OCT start, or have they indicated that they are adjusting the pay starts?

 

[soldier2surgeon]

1 Oct as of now.

 

[sebrewer]

Hey all,
I have been following this thread off and on since the fall and have finally decided that this is the things for me. I am in the middle of the application (just waiting to get to my physical). However, it sounds like there is a wait list now. Does this mean that if I went through with everything and joined now I would be looking at not starting as an ASR and not getting paid until October next year. I just want to make sure I understand this correctly. The recruiter I was talking to made it sound like there wouldn't be a problem getting a slot . . .
Also those of you who are in the program, is there a set number of people you have to recruit or contact in a year or any quotas along those lines?

 

[notdeadyet]

Does this mean that if I went through with everything and joined now I would be looking at not starting as an ASR and not getting paid until October next year.

That seems to be what some folks are experiencing. But keep in mind that some of us in ASR are still being told that there should be 200 new slots opening 1 October 2009.

I've been told that 200 are still expected to open up 1 October and the waiting list is for those slots. We haven't seen anything official in writing that those 200 slots won't be there. For some, it's still rumor at this point.

Also those of you who are in the program, is there a set number of people you have to recruit or contact in a year or any quotas along those lines?

I'm asked to track the number of referrals I make and talk about that number once every quarter.

 

[koojo]

I'm asked to track the number of referrals I make and talk about that number once every quarter.

I haven't even started ASR yet and I've given my recruiter at least 10 leads...I hope that takes me off the hook for a while..

 

[notdeadyet]

I haven't even started ASR yet and I've given my recruiter at least 10 leads...I hope that takes me off the hook for a while..

To be honest, I'd think about sitting on some new ones you have for when you start ASR and it goes towards your evals.

 

[koojo]

To be honest, I'd think about sitting on some new ones you have for when you start ASR and it goes towards your evals.

My ASR commando is pretty cool I'm sure he'll include all the ones I did up to the first eval.

 

[EMH]

Hey all,

Also those of you who are in the program, is there a set number of people you have to recruit or contact in a year or any quotas along those lines?

I've been told just don't slack off. They only way I wouldn't get renewed for another year of ASR is if my recruiting officer wrote a letter to NGB saying I wasn't doing my job.

 

[ohio23]

I've got waitlist number 39!!

My fingers are still crossed for a 1 OCT 09 start date!!

 

[punkiedad]

I've got waitlist number 39!!

My fingers are still crossed for a 1 OCT 09 start date!!

Congratulations on your waitlist......I still have faith. I am confident things will move quickly.

 

[hockey]

Please firgive me if this question has been asked but I am an Army ROTC cadet interested in medical/dental school. How would this program work if I chose to commission to the guard and then started serving my six year committment? Would my four years in grad school count towards my undergrad committment debt? Am I even eligible for this program?​

 

[rookem11]

Haven't been on here in a while. Glad to see the program is still gaining steam. Off-topic but if you guys like Oakley product you can purchase through www.usstandardissue.com at a significant discount. you just have to upload your picture ID. They have sunglasses, boots, etc... pretty nice.

 

[EMH]

Haven't been on here in a while. Glad to see the program is still gaining steam. Off-topic but if you guys like Oakley product you can purchase through www.usstandardissue.com at a significant discount. you just have to upload your picture ID. They have sunglasses, boots, etc... pretty nice.

Absolutely check it out once you get your ID. You can get them at about half price no tax. I recommend the flak jackets.

 

[iatrosB]

I recommend the flak jackets.

How much are they?

 

[EMH]

They were either $65 or $70 and regular retail is like $130.

 

[UBMEDICINE2011]

Any third years on here that are ASR? I'm about to finish off the boards and are getting a little nervous about how drill/duties are going to work out with rotations...any wisdom out there? 🙂

 

[EMH]

Any third years on here that are ASR? I'm about to finish off the boards and are getting a little nervous about how drill/duties are going to work out with rotations...any wisdom out there? 🙂

I'm about to be a third year but I think the answer to your question is going to vary based on the state and the unit you're assigned to. I don't anticipate any problems in my case.

 

[notdeadyet]

Any third years on here that are ASR? I'm about to finish off the boards and are getting a little nervous about how drill/duties are going to work out with rotations...any wisdom out there? 🙂

Yep, I'm a third year.

I recommend speaking to your AMEDD recruiter and finding out who your CO is going to be. Ask to speak to your CO and ask what sort of drilling commitments they expect.

You are obligated to drill one full weekend each month unless your CO authorizes Flexi-training. From what I've heard, if your CO is in a med company, getting flexi-training approved is NOT a problem.

No one can give you a great answer to your question, because experiences will vary wildly. Some folks do not really drill at all, and just study on base one weekend every three months.

In my case, I am expected to drill every month with my unit unless I have a valid reason not to. Since joining, I've missed as many drill weekends as I've attended because rotations or exams got in the way and my CO was fine with that.

Drilling can sometimes be awkward, and as much as I love being in the Guard, I'm sure there will be weekends I'd rather be studying or (more often) just sitting on the couch and decompressing. But I have to say that folks in the Guard have been extremely patient with the fact that I don't always have complete control of my schedule. No regrets here.

 

[iatrosB]

They were either $65 or $70 and regular retail is like $130.

Is that for prescription glasses?

 

[EMH]

no, just the sunglasses