Help! I have a difficult decision to make

Post by **sita** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:13 pm

Okay - So I found out today that I was accepted to Coast Guard Officer Candidate School. Now, the problem is that for the last month or so I have been questioning whether or not I really want to be in the military. I also am not so unattached anymore. I applied because I thought it would be a great adventure and a good opportunity. Anybody have any input?

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:22 pm

what other options are you considering? Or are you?

Unfortunately no one can make this decision for you, and it's a big one. I suppose if I were in your shoes I'd talk to some career Coast Guard officers to gauge their level of satisfaction. Hopefully some who are not in recruiting..

Come climb, Sita. It will get your mind off of this and perhaps offer you clarity when you come down from the rock.

Post by **captain static** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:23 pm

What would be your time commitment to the Coast Guard. I have two female friends who are outdoor enthusiasts that went into the military. One in the Coast Guard and one in the Navy. Cindy, who went into the Coast Guard, is still in it. Suzanne, who was in the Navy, is the Director of the Bend, OR recycling program and has served on Bend city council. I know from Suzanne's standpoint that being a female, veteran really helped her career.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:23 pm

oh, and by the way, BIG congratulations! Being accepted is quite an accomplishment!! Of course I never doubted that you would be.

Post by **Artsay** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:25 pm

That's a tough one, girl. You seemed really happy with your new *friend* the last time I saw you.

Unfortunately, the reality is that unless you know for sure he is "the one", don't bet anything on him. You have to do what's right for you and it's important not to be pursuaded by emotions, unless you know for sure he is the person you want to spend your life with. If you think for one second he may not be then chances are he's not. And if that's the case, I think you should come face to face with the reasons why you decided to apply in the first place and figure out why your mind has changed. And if it's just because of him, then that reason is not good enough. Going into the Coast Guard isn't for everybody. You choose to apply because I guess you have a dream/passion...whatever...for that lifestyle. Are you ready to throw that all away?

But if this guy IS the love of your life, then hold onto him and do whatever you have to to be together. But that's coming from a romantic.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:28 pm

Artsay wrote:But if this guy IS the love of your life, then hold onto him and do whatever you have to to be together. But that's coming from a romantic.

Jeez Sita, I totally missed the part about you not being unattached anymore. I agree with Artsay 100% on her advice!

Post by **SikMonkey** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 2:43 pm

Ah ha! The Love Bug bites again! Not that it's a bad thing at all, but WOW can it throw a monkey wrench into some life plans or what?

Artsay had some damn good self evaluation advice here: ".....I think you should come face to face with the reasons why you decided to apply in the first place and figure out why your mind has changed. And if it's just because of him, then that reason is not good enough."

Mj

Post by **overhung** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 4:41 pm

Congrats! Coast Guard Academy is really selective. I spent four years in the Air Force and had the option of officer training. My guts told me to get out after four years and I've never regretted it. However, it is a great life for the right individual. If you decide to go just make sure you get the field you are interested in. A military career is great if you love the field you are in.

Post by **ynot** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 5:34 pm

Guys are like buses. If you miss the bus theres another one about 15 minutes later. Are you gonna have another shot at officer school if you dont go?Not likely.
If this guy is the one,he wont make you choose.

Post by **pigsteak** » Tue Jun 17, 2003 8:41 pm

nice..a lovely romantic climbing forum with ann landers advice. and all in a public forum..gotta love making big decisions wiht the input of a chat board....