Thinking about joining the National Guard as a 68W, what am I getting myself into?

[MacAlly]

My first 2 years of college were riddled with hurdles that were hard to jump. Loss of family members really does take a toll on someone, so damn much. The hurdles both financial and emotional have been coming in non-stop, but I have began improving my grades and can guarantee an improvement in my GPA. I have landed a job at a hospital as well, having constant patient interaction. It's been getting better. My failures in the classroom,however, have left a permanent dent in my chance of getting in medical school as an MD. I still have 2 more years to prove that I can be a capable medical student and, furthermore, a capable doctor.

I have come across an ad online about the recruiters in my area needing a 68W to join the National Guard. From the description and benefits being mentioned, it sounds like an amazing deal. I have yet to get a call from the recruiter after I submitted my application, but I know they can offer a detailed breakdown of what to expect. It's all very new to me.

What do you guys think? Am I making a decision I will regret? Why?

If anyone has any experience with being a 68W health specialist, I would really appreciate knowing what exactly you went through and how it ultimately benefited you or caused you to fall further behind.

Any advice is appreciated. I would just like people's input from the outside looking in.

Thank you.

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[Goro]

Paging @Gastrapathy , @sb247 and @EODguy !!!!

 

[BombsAway]

The national guard is weird. You get all the headaches and only some of the benefits. But, as far as it looking good on your app, yeah, it'll probably help. It will check the military service and clinical experience boxes concurrently. You'll get paid a little as well. You should consider how it will affect your grades. Also make sure your stint ends before you plan to matriculate to medical school. You don't want that time commitment in school, and the adcoms will likely feel the same way.

With all that in mind, don't expect (halfway) joining the military to solve any family problems. It's just another job. Also don't be upset if you don't get in. entrance requirements are more stringent than the general public might think.

 

[deleted480308]

Paging @Gastrapathy , @sb247 and @EODguy !!!!

If you are thinking about this as opposed to med school, go for it. Maybe you someday end up in med school, maybe you don't

If you think it is the ticket into med school? I would disagree as your grades are your problem and this will just distract you and slow you down.

I'll also point out that a 68w is a legit, get shot at, job. Don't take that lightly. This isn't signing up to take rectal temps at a marathon...people die

 

[MacAlly]

If you are thinking about this as opposed to med school, go for it. Maybe you someday end up in med school, maybe you don't

If you think it is the ticket into med school? I would disagree as your grades are your problem and this will just distract you and slow you down.

I'll also point out that a 68w is a legit, get shot at, job. Don't take that lightly. This isn't signing up to take rectal temps at a marathon...people die

Thank you.

 

[MacAlly]

The national guard is weird. You get all the headaches and only some of the benefits. But, as far as it looking good on your app, yeah, it'll probably help. It will check the military service and clinical experience boxes concurrently. You'll get paid a little as well. You should consider how it will affect your grades. Also make sure your stint ends before you plan to matriculate to medical school. You don't want that time commitment in school, and the adcoms will likely feel the same way.

With all that in mind, don't expect (halfway) joining the military to solve any family problems. It's just another job. Also don't be upset if you don't get in. entrance requirements are more stringent than the general public might think.

Appreciate the input.