My son is enlisted now. He wants to go back to college to finish his degree & go to flight school. He is looking at the STA 21 program. Recently, he was told that he would need to go to the Naval Academy in order to go into flight school. Is this true?
No, STA-21 candidates are not required to attend the Naval Academy, but, it is an option. See the Discussion Forum above and look here: http://www.sta-21.navy.mil/index.asp
My son is a product of STA-21. He attended The Citadel and is now in flight school.
I read through everything. Did your son want to do the flight program? My son has had 2 years of college & is hoping to return in order to do flight school. How rigorous is the process? He is currently at GooseCreek in A school. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!!
Chris, Is there anyway to change fields? My son is just starting the Nuke program but really wants to get into aviation to fly. BTW - I saw my answer about your son doing flight school. Again, any help would be greatly appreciated!
Rigorous indeed! My son was an enlisted Nuke. He worked on his STA-21 package for three years, applied three consecutive years, picked up on his third third try.
Desire and extremely hard work are the "secrets" for STA-21 applicant success. First and foremost, your son must excel as a Nuke. The only path (still I think) is to become a SPU after prototype. If you look at the fleet brief on the STA-21 site you will see the recent selection rate for pilot is extremely low. My son was FY-10 when 35 pilots were picked up.
A better option for your son may be to get his degree and then go to OCS. I'm not sure about the Nuke to Aviation transfer here, but, I think it's possible. Your son may want go to www.airwarriors.com and ask some questions.
My son's plan was to go enlisted Nuke, then apply for Officer/pilot. In hindsight, it's a crazy plan, but it worked for him. For perspective, my son should wing sometime in the next six months. He celebrates 10 years of active duty service in January 2016.
If my son doesn't get accepted for the STA-21, could he apply at other colleges to continue his education & do reserves? He would apply to a school with Navy ROTC program which I know he could only participate in certain things because he is enlisted. Any suggestions? Also, he was told that if he was accepted that he would have to be dismissed from Nuke program. How hard is this?
Actually, your son is better off if he stays Nuke for application to the STA-21 program. Currently, the vast majority of STA-21 acceptances come from the Nuke program (and a surprising number are picked up during school, as my son was).
Hello All! My name is Paula, and I am the proud mom of 2 STA-21 graduates. My eldest is an Intelligence Office (now a LTjg) and his brother is a new Ensign doing his surface tour prior to returning to Nuke training. I'm happy to help out however I can. STA-21 is a great program!!
Is this group still active? Is there another group for STA-21? My son is almost finished with the Nuke training pipeline and is set to go to NSI in Feb 2017. I have great N4M support from the Nuke Moms group, but would like to find a niche for those of us who have loved ones in transition from enlisted to officers. Thanks!
Welcome PacNWmom! I don't check in here as much as I have in the past - I there is a small group of moms on a fb group that is a little more active if you are interested.... My son was selected during prototype and did not complete prototype before going to NSI. He made it through school and back through the pipeline and reported to his first boat in April and deployed in August! It's been an adventure!
Anyone with a sailor reporting to NSI this week? I'd love to be able to talk to others with loved ones in my son's class.
A question for those of you who have been through NSI already: Is there a graduation? If so, is it formal or more casual? Is this one I should try to attend? How "important" is it? In other words, is this on the "Make-SURE-you-go-if-at-all-possible" list, like PIR? I'm trying to be proactive about travel plans, and it could get complicated.
"Anyone with a sailor reporting to NSI this week? I'd love to be able to talk to others with loved ones in my son's class.
A question for those of you who have been through NSI already: Is there a graduation?"
There is a reception with awards (organized by the OC's) for the families, not really a graduation. It's a good time.
"If so, is it formal or more casual?"
In 2010, I wore a jacket and tie, ladies had summer dresses (it was July). Some men did not have ties as I recall.
Is this one I should try to attend?
Newport is a nice place to visit. I wouldn't have missed it.
How "important" is it? In other words, is this on the "Make-SURE-you-go-if-at-all-possible" list, like PIR?
Yes. It's a smaller group (not like PIR at all) than PIR. Helps you understand the transition from enlisted to officer is a big deal. I enjoyed it at least as much as commissioning and graduation (hectic on back to back days). My two favorite milestones were the NSI reception and Winging (my son is a pilot). Newport is a very unique place, both the town and the base. Very enjoyable.
I'm trying to be proactive about travel plans, and it could get complicated.
Congratulations to you and your OC. Feel free to ask if you need more information. We stayed at the Days Inn...not the greatest hotel, but, we were not in the room except to sleep and shower. Very affordable.
@PacNWmom Congrats on your new OC! Yes, there is a small award ceremony and dinner. I did not go, I went to the Newport St Patrick's Day parade instead. It was well worth the long flight out from WA, and the opportunity to spend some time with my son. My sons wife drove up from SC for his graduation from NSI.
I am the admin for a small STA-21 Moms FB group, and we do have one other Mom who's son is going to NSI this week. We have many OC's and Officers in different parts of the pipeline. My son received his commission last May, finished PS on 12/2 and is currently in Prototype at GC. It's a good small group, if you want to join find me on FB and send me a PM.
Hi everybody. I'm new here. My son enlisted as a Nuke last week. However, he is still awaiting word on whether he will be awarded an ROTC scholarship. I feel like he will have a big decision to make bc as a Nuke, he can apply for STA-21. I know there are no guarantees. Have any of your sons been in a similar situation? Did any of you have children who received the NROTC scholarship, but still opted to ship off as a Nuke?
Hi Glenni! When my son joined the Navy it was his desire to be a pilot, he did really well at MEPS, paraded him around like a prized bull, but they ONLY offered him Nuke. He told them he wanted to be a pilot, but they said "no, it's Nuke for you". I told him he should do NROTC/College and be a pilot that way, but he wanted in right away and didn't want to go to college. He enlisted (6 yrs ago) as a Nuke. His recruiter said he could still be an Officer, it would just be a harder task to get there. To my knowledge (unless they've changed things) anyone in the Navy can apply for STA-21, but the reality is they only pick 50 a year, and with the needs of the Navy Nukes comprise of about 75% of the 50. Once the Nuke is in STA-21 it's not "impossible" to get offered a piloting position, it's just very rare. I know of only 1 who was offered ANY position he wanted when he commissioned and he chose pilot, he originally was a Nuke. My son would love to have been offered that, but he is happy with being a Nuke Officer. If you're son just enlisted then he has a long way to go, but I would encourage him to keep his eye on the prize. Do well in A school, branch out to meet instructors, the Chaplain, any other person in command, and develop relationships. When he's in Power School he should apply for STA-21. The application process starts in the Spring, they have to get several letters of recommendation, write an essay, and have oral interviews. Once his application is turned in in May, he can add to his application packet (any awards, commendations) until a certain date, after that it's just a waiting game till Oct when the announce the new OC's. IMO, if your son gets a scholarship to have college paid for, and is guaranteed a position in the Navy he would be happy with, then he should go that way. STA-21 is very challenging, and like you said there is no guarantee he'd get picked to begin with, aside from that the OC's have to complete college in 3 years, not 4, and also have to do their Navy duties. I hope that helps and he choses the best path for himself. Good luck!
What MichPad said is true - if he's trying to go for Nuke for STA-21, his chance is much higher because that's what they want for the most part. The second highest is actually Pilot and NFO. Other than that, they most likely have no quota for anything else. I know a guy who actually got picked up right at his first duty station as Nuke. Doesn't even know what Enlisted life is like (lucky him). I will say have him put Pilot as first choice, NFO second, and Nuke third when he submits for STA-21. AND keep going to school while he's enlisted active duty, and maybe he can apply OCS for Pilot and have them put him to flight school after he gets his degree.
No, he did a delayed entry enlistment. He is a HS senior. The recruiter told him that doing the delayed entry would increase his chance of receiving a NROTC scholarship.
Has he thought about applying and getting into college, and then apply for NROTC scholarships? That would be the best way in my opinion. Especially if he actually want to be a pilot. I am not against enlisting, but in our experience, it's always better to do it that way if he has good GPA and ACT score.
He has been accepted at 4 universities and got partial academic scholarships to 2 of them. He couldn't break a 30 on his ACT, so he didn't get full tuition anywhere despite an 4.2 GPA. He wants to make the Navy his career and is just bound and determined that they are going to pay for college. He is pretty stubborn
Glenni, you got a smart kid there. PLEASE tell him not to enlist because it will ruin his life. There is nothing wrong with enlisting, but it really is not for smart and hard working kid like him. My husband enlisted only because he partied too hard when he first went out to college, which he was 17. And his GPA dropped too much for the NROTC scholarships. And trying to go to school and work it back up while being enlisted is extremely hard (obviously a little different for single sailor). And finally got back to 4.0. He also had a 4.2 when he graduated high school. And you can't apply to STA-21 until you're in your first command for a whole year, which after boot camp and A school and all, it'll be almost 2 years already in the Navy. It will be a good experience, but that's half way through his college life if he would just go straight to it. Not to mention if he's a nuke, he might not even be able to go to school while he's enlisted in the Navy because he will be out sea so much. If he can get scholarship already to go to those universities, go, and then after 1-2 semester of proofing his GPA, he will be able to get full scholarships. And if his NROTC scholarship is not there by then, he can apply by then as well. IF you do really want him, or if he really wants to join as enlisted first, just know it'll be almost 2 years before he can start using his tuition assistant (because you can't activate it until at least a year in the same command as well), and it'll be that same 2 years before he can apply to STA-21. That means he will be left with nothing for that period (or if he wants a break, that's great). But once you get TA, with him being smart and hard working, he always have an option to use TA to go to school, and then grants and scholarships to get through it. But I promise you, it'll be much harder and not worth the time. He has a bright future!
Glenni, I don't believe enlisting will ruin your son's life. However, going to college first, getting good grades, and staying out of trouble is probably his best (and quickest) option if he wants to be a pilot.
If he enlists, it would be best for him to enlist in an aviation rate. My son enlisted, went Nuke and picked up STA-21 as a pilot. That was 2010 -- 200 OC's selected, 35 were pilots. Last year there were only 50 OC's selected and there were @ 5 pilots.
You and your son should speak to a Naval Officer if possible. Try www.airwarriors.com -- It's a Navy/Marine pilot forum. There current and former officers there who can provide good advice.
Thank you so much for your input Winona and Chris. We definitely have a lot to talk about this weekend! He already enlisted (delayed entry)as a Nuke bc the recruiter told him that would look really good on his ROTC application. So honestly, I'm not sure he even has a choice now if he doesn't get the NROTC scholarship.
"Thank you so much for your input Winona and Chris. We definitely have a lot to talk about this weekend! He already enlisted (delayed entry)as a Nuke bc the recruiter told him that would look really good on his ROTC application."
That may or may nor be the case. I would speak to an OFFICER recruiter. They are very busy and can be difficult to get in touch with. There are at least two who contribute on airwarriors.com on a regular basis. Nuke recruits are highly prized in the recruiting world. Your recruiter may not have your best interest in mind.
"So honestly, I'm not sure he even has a choice now if he doesn't get the NROTC scholarship."
He definitely has a choice. Until he swears in at MEPS and signs up he's not in the Navy. He can leave DEP at any time. My nephew, a Navy Commander, helped with my son when we were going through the process. His advice: If you don't see it in writing, it's not happening.
"I know he will have some AP college credit. Can they also get credit for their Nuke school? And can they take college classes on the side?"
My son got zero credit for Nuke school (and he was a SPU). For STA-21 it is highly recommended that applicants complete CALC I and II and CALC based Physics I and II. My son took these classes while a SPU in Ballston Spa. FYI STA-21 is a process. It took my son three years to get selected (he was rejected his first two applications).
Please talk to a disinterested third party who has experience with officer recruiting, Naval Aviation, or both. If you found one who advised you son to enlist and go STA-21 to apply for pilot, I'd be shocked.
Your son has to identify his ultimate goal. Get his college paid for or become a pilot.
Recruiters get big dollars for bringing in a Nuke, I felt from the beginning that his recruiter was looking out for himself more than my son. Nuke is not for everyone and even though you did great at MEPS doesn't mean that's the best job for them. My son had one year of community college under his belt before enlisting. I think when he got into STA-21 he only got his English 101 credit transferred. That left a lot of classes to take in three years. He went to the Citadel in Charleston and really enjoyed it.
IMO, if your son can get into a good school and have all, or part, of it paid for by doing NROTC, he should absolutely go that way. I encouraged my son to go that route, but he really wanted to "be in the Navy" and didn't want to wait. Wynona is correct that by they time they put their packet together and possibly get accepted, they are in for close to two years, mine was 18 months, but close enough.
That being said, enlisting is not the end of the world. My son has heard, and seen, that enlisted officers have a lot more respect than OCS officers. Enlisted know the difficulties of the Navy and respect those Officers who have been there too, and visa versa, they know what it's like to be enlisted and therefore have more of an idea what the enlisted sailor is going through. Another good thing about being enlisted, and being in STA-21, is not only is their college being paid for, they are also getting all of their Navy pay and benefits (except retirement, you don't accrue retirement while at college). My son was able to buy a house prior to being accepted (he was on Staff at Prototype), all paid for by his BAH.
I have a good friend who's husband was a Navy pilot for 24 years (OCS) and she always asks why did my son "do it the hard way", why didn't he do college and OCS? In a nut shell, because he didn't want to. He did it his way, albeit, the harder way, and the NOT guaranteed way.
You do have a lot to think about Glenni, I wish you the best of luck! I know how hard it is trying to "talk sense" or give some parental input to a stubborn teenager, but above all make sure he doesn't feel pressured by the recruiter to do what they want, he needs to do what HE wants.
You have all been so helpful. Chris, he went to MEPS last week and did swear in and sign papers. Is that what you're talking about, or is there a second swearing in right before they ship?
I agree that he needs to identify his ultimate goal. He is actually wavering some on the pilot thing because he is so intrigued with the nuclear engineering side of it. He excels in science and math (took quantum physics for kicks in 10th grade online), and has (since all this came up) started talking about how cool it would be to command a nuclear ship or sub someday. I honestly don't know if it is just his way of preparing himself not to be disappointed in the event he doesn't get a scholarship, or if he is really rethinking things. He has been talking a lot lately about career service.
I just wish we would find out about the scholarship soon so he will know one way or the other!!
MichPad, my son has talked a lot about the benefits of being enlisted before being an officer, too. At this point all I can really do is just pray that God will guide his career path in the direction that is best for him.
Glenni, all I can say is no matter what he chooses, all that matter is his heart. If he eventually really enlist, I know he will still make it as long as he put his heart and mind all to it. Good luck!
Wynona, you asked earlier about the Academy. He did apply, but did not receive an appointment. He took the ACT 3 times and made 29 the last two times. It just wasn't high enough for the Academy, and I'm honestly worried it won't be high enough for the scholarship. But he wrote an outstanding essay on his application, so I'm really hoping that essay combined with a strong interview and his GPA and class rank will carry the day!!
Thank you so much Chris. I just shared this conversation with him and asked if he would consider not enlisting to att nd college and try for an ROTC scholarship while there. He wants no part of it. He said if he doesn't get the scholarship now, he really wants to go this route. So like MichPad's son, all I can do is let him do it his way.
I am so grateful for all of your insights. Thank you so much. I actually feel better about whichever way it goes. Like my husband says, we are pleased that he is determined to serve his country.
Thank you all so much for the kind, encouraging words.mwe learned yesterday that my son was selected for a Navy ROTC scholarship. I was surprised by how overwhelmingly excited we were because I really thought we had made peace with the enlisted route.
I am a new Navy mom with some questions about the STA-21 program. My son is just about to finish boot camp and then I believe heads to school in SC. If anyone is a bit experienced with the program and flow, please PM me because I have some general questions. Thanks
NewNavyMom ask away. I have 2 sons who are commissioned through STA-21. My younger son was picked up while in school at Goose Creek, and is actually back there now completing his officer training to be a surface nuke.
NacyMominVA - thank you for the response. I guess for starters, what happens after boot camp in terms of training and when do they go back to complete a degree? He only had one year of college left and a strong physics/calculus background. Does everyone in the STA-21 program have the same schooling after bootcamp? Do they get to select the college where they finish their degree? And when does that happen?
After boot camp, they continue to the training for their MOS. In my son's case it was 'A' school and Power school. While in Goose Creek, he applied for and was accepted to STA-21. Since he is a nuke, he had a good chance (they take a lot of Nukes into STA-21). They select their college (the school has to have a Navy ROTC unit) and have to be accepted through the application process. They have 3 years to complete their degree and then commission with their ROTC unit. And backing up a bit, with the exception of Nukes, it's extremely unusual to be accepted into STA-21 during training. My older son was enlisted for 5 years before he was accepted to STA-21. Hope this helps.
Hello :) I'm a Nuke Mom and my son is now in the STA-21 program. He previously served on the USS Alabama as an ETN. He just completed NSI and will start classes at Purdue in June. I'm very excited about this next leg of my son's journey in the Navy!
Congratulations to you and your son. My son was a Nuke ET sub vol., but he never served on a sub! He got orders to the Virginia a week after he was accepted to STA-21. Undergraduate school was a great time for my son. Your son will be the Big Man On Campus! With a paycheck! My son graduated and Commissioned in May 2013. He is now a Naval Aviator. Have fun, enjoy the ride!
Chris
Congratulations Carol!!! What's next?
Jun 23, 2014
Carol Aileen
Jun 26, 2014
brojo
Sep 15, 2015
Chris
brojo,
No, STA-21 candidates are not required to attend the Naval Academy, but, it is an option. See the Discussion Forum above and look here: http://www.sta-21.navy.mil/index.asp
My son is a product of STA-21. He attended The Citadel and is now in flight school.
Sep 17, 2015
brojo
Hi Chris,
I read through everything. Did your son want to do the flight program? My son has had 2 years of college & is hoping to return in order to do flight school. How rigorous is the process? He is currently at GooseCreek in A school. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!!
Sep 18, 2015
brojo
Chris, Is there anyway to change fields? My son is just starting the Nuke program but really wants to get into aviation to fly. BTW - I saw my answer about your son doing flight school. Again, any help would be greatly appreciated!
Sep 18, 2015
Chris
brojo,
Rigorous indeed! My son was an enlisted Nuke. He worked on his STA-21 package for three years, applied three consecutive years, picked up on his third third try.
Desire and extremely hard work are the "secrets" for STA-21 applicant success. First and foremost, your son must excel as a Nuke. The only path (still I think) is to become a SPU after prototype. If you look at the fleet brief on the STA-21 site you will see the recent selection rate for pilot is extremely low. My son was FY-10 when 35 pilots were picked up.
A better option for your son may be to get his degree and then go to OCS. I'm not sure about the Nuke to Aviation transfer here, but, I think it's possible. Your son may want go to www.airwarriors.com and ask some questions.
My son's plan was to go enlisted Nuke, then apply for Officer/pilot. In hindsight, it's a crazy plan, but it worked for him. For perspective, my son should wing sometime in the next six months. He celebrates 10 years of active duty service in January 2016.
Sep 20, 2015
brojo
If my son doesn't get accepted for the STA-21, could he apply at other colleges to continue his education & do reserves? He would apply to a school with Navy ROTC program which I know he could only participate in certain things because he is enlisted. Any suggestions? Also, he was told that if he was accepted that he would have to be dismissed from Nuke program. How hard is this?
Oct 6, 2015
Chris
If my son doesn't get accepted for the STA-21, could he apply at other colleges to continue his education & do reserves?
I don't know why he couldn't.
He would apply to a school with Navy ROTC program which I know he could only participate in certain things because he is enlisted. Any suggestions?
Your son should try to be the best Nuke he can be. He has many options to get a degree, in or out of active duty service.
Also, he was told that if he was accepted that he would have to be dismissed from Nuke program. How hard is this?
If he gets picked up for STA-21 Pilot, it's a no brainer. They will let him go. The hard part is getting accepted.
Oct 6, 2015
NavyMominVA
Actually, your son is better off if he stays Nuke for application to the STA-21 program. Currently, the vast majority of STA-21 acceptances come from the Nuke program (and a surprising number are picked up during school, as my son was).
Oct 27, 2015
NavyMominVA
Hello All! My name is Paula, and I am the proud mom of 2 STA-21 graduates. My eldest is an Intelligence Office (now a LTjg) and his brother is a new Ensign doing his surface tour prior to returning to Nuke training. I'm happy to help out however I can. STA-21 is a great program!!
Oct 27, 2015
PacNWmom
Is this group still active? Is there another group for STA-21? My son is almost finished with the Nuke training pipeline and is set to go to NSI in Feb 2017. I have great N4M support from the Nuke Moms group, but would like to find a niche for those of us who have loved ones in transition from enlisted to officers. Thanks!
Nov 21, 2016
Chris
Yes this group is still active. The STA-21 community is very small (@ 50 sailors per year), so there is not much activity here.
Most of the members here have loved ones who are already finished with STA-21. Life gets "normal" after NSI when OC's begin undergraduate school.
Any questions, just ask.
Nov 22, 2016
Carol Aileen
Dec 1, 2016
PacNWmom
Anyone with a sailor reporting to NSI this week? I'd love to be able to talk to others with loved ones in my son's class.
A question for those of you who have been through NSI already: Is there a graduation? If so, is it formal or more casual? Is this one I should try to attend? How "important" is it? In other words, is this on the "Make-SURE-you-go-if-at-all-possible" list, like PIR? I'm trying to be proactive about travel plans, and it could get complicated.
Feb 19, 2017
Chris
"Anyone with a sailor reporting to NSI this week? I'd love to be able to talk to others with loved ones in my son's class.
A question for those of you who have been through NSI already: Is there a graduation?"
There is a reception with awards (organized by the OC's) for the families, not really a graduation. It's a good time.
"If so, is it formal or more casual?"
In 2010, I wore a jacket and tie, ladies had summer dresses (it was July). Some men did not have ties as I recall.
Is this one I should try to attend?
Newport is a nice place to visit. I wouldn't have missed it.
How "important" is it? In other words, is this on the "Make-SURE-you-go-if-at-all-possible" list, like PIR?
Yes. It's a smaller group (not like PIR at all) than PIR. Helps you understand the transition from enlisted to officer is a big deal. I enjoyed it at least as much as commissioning and graduation (hectic on back to back days). My two favorite milestones were the NSI reception and Winging (my son is a pilot). Newport is a very unique place, both the town and the base. Very enjoyable.
I'm trying to be proactive about travel plans, and it could get complicated.
Congratulations to you and your OC. Feel free to ask if you need more information. We stayed at the Days Inn...not the greatest hotel, but, we were not in the room except to sleep and shower. Very affordable.
Feb 20, 2017
MichPad(STA21 Officer Mom)
@PacNWmom Congrats on your new OC! Yes, there is a small award ceremony and dinner. I did not go, I went to the Newport St Patrick's Day parade instead. It was well worth the long flight out from WA, and the opportunity to spend some time with my son. My sons wife drove up from SC for his graduation from NSI.
I am the admin for a small STA-21 Moms FB group, and we do have one other Mom who's son is going to NSI this week. We have many OC's and Officers in different parts of the pipeline. My son received his commission last May, finished PS on 12/2 and is currently in Prototype at GC. It's a good small group, if you want to join find me on FB and send me a PM.
Feb 20, 2017
Glenni
Feb 23, 2017
Glenni
Feb 23, 2017
MichPad(STA21 Officer Mom)
Hi Glenni! When my son joined the Navy it was his desire to be a pilot, he did really well at MEPS, paraded him around like a prized bull, but they ONLY offered him Nuke. He told them he wanted to be a pilot, but they said "no, it's Nuke for you". I told him he should do NROTC/College and be a pilot that way, but he wanted in right away and didn't want to go to college. He enlisted (6 yrs ago) as a Nuke. His recruiter said he could still be an Officer, it would just be a harder task to get there. To my knowledge (unless they've changed things) anyone in the Navy can apply for STA-21, but the reality is they only pick 50 a year, and with the needs of the Navy Nukes comprise of about 75% of the 50. Once the Nuke is in STA-21 it's not "impossible" to get offered a piloting position, it's just very rare. I know of only 1 who was offered ANY position he wanted when he commissioned and he chose pilot, he originally was a Nuke. My son would love to have been offered that, but he is happy with being a Nuke Officer. If you're son just enlisted then he has a long way to go, but I would encourage him to keep his eye on the prize. Do well in A school, branch out to meet instructors, the Chaplain, any other person in command, and develop relationships. When he's in Power School he should apply for STA-21. The application process starts in the Spring, they have to get several letters of recommendation, write an essay, and have oral interviews. Once his application is turned in in May, he can add to his application packet (any awards, commendations) until a certain date, after that it's just a waiting game till Oct when the announce the new OC's. IMO, if your son gets a scholarship to have college paid for, and is guaranteed a position in the Navy he would be happy with, then he should go that way. STA-21 is very challenging, and like you said there is no guarantee he'd get picked to begin with, aside from that the OC's have to complete college in 3 years, not 4, and also have to do their Navy duties. I hope that helps and he choses the best path for himself. Good luck!
Feb 23, 2017
Wynona
What MichPad said is true - if he's trying to go for Nuke for STA-21, his chance is much higher because that's what they want for the most part. The second highest is actually Pilot and NFO. Other than that, they most likely have no quota for anything else. I know a guy who actually got picked up right at his first duty station as Nuke. Doesn't even know what Enlisted life is like (lucky him). I will say have him put Pilot as first choice, NFO second, and Nuke third when he submits for STA-21. AND keep going to school while he's enlisted active duty, and maybe he can apply OCS for Pilot and have them put him to flight school after he gets his degree.
Feb 23, 2017
Glenni
Thanks so much MichPad and Wynona. So if he does get the NROTC scholarship, that would definitely be the route to go, in your opinion?
Feb 23, 2017
Wynona
Glenni, did he enlisted as a reservist? Cause active duty enlisted don't get NROTC scholarship. When is he shipping out?
Feb 23, 2017
Glenni
His ship date is Oct 30
Feb 23, 2017
Wynona
Has he thought about applying and getting into college, and then apply for NROTC scholarships? That would be the best way in my opinion. Especially if he actually want to be a pilot. I am not against enlisting, but in our experience, it's always better to do it that way if he has good GPA and ACT score.
Feb 23, 2017
Glenni
Feb 23, 2017
Wynona
Glenni, you got a smart kid there. PLEASE tell him not to enlist because it will ruin his life. There is nothing wrong with enlisting, but it really is not for smart and hard working kid like him. My husband enlisted only because he partied too hard when he first went out to college, which he was 17. And his GPA dropped too much for the NROTC scholarships. And trying to go to school and work it back up while being enlisted is extremely hard (obviously a little different for single sailor). And finally got back to 4.0. He also had a 4.2 when he graduated high school. And you can't apply to STA-21 until you're in your first command for a whole year, which after boot camp and A school and all, it'll be almost 2 years already in the Navy. It will be a good experience, but that's half way through his college life if he would just go straight to it. Not to mention if he's a nuke, he might not even be able to go to school while he's enlisted in the Navy because he will be out sea so much. If he can get scholarship already to go to those universities, go, and then after 1-2 semester of proofing his GPA, he will be able to get full scholarships. And if his NROTC scholarship is not there by then, he can apply by then as well.
IF you do really want him, or if he really wants to join as enlisted first, just know it'll be almost 2 years before he can start using his tuition assistant (because you can't activate it until at least a year in the same command as well), and it'll be that same 2 years before he can apply to STA-21. That means he will be left with nothing for that period (or if he wants a break, that's great). But once you get TA, with him being smart and hard working, he always have an option to use TA to go to school, and then grants and scholarships to get through it. But I promise you, it'll be much harder and not worth the time. He has a bright future!
Feb 23, 2017
Chris
Glenni, I don't believe enlisting will ruin your son's life. However, going to college first, getting good grades, and staying out of trouble is probably his best (and quickest) option if he wants to be a pilot.
If he enlists, it would be best for him to enlist in an aviation rate. My son enlisted, went Nuke and picked up STA-21 as a pilot. That was 2010 -- 200 OC's selected, 35 were pilots. Last year there were only 50 OC's selected and there were @ 5 pilots.
You and your son should speak to a Naval Officer if possible. Try www.airwarriors.com -- It's a Navy/Marine pilot forum. There current and former officers there who can provide good advice.
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
Feb 24, 2017
Chris
"Thank you so much for your input Winona and Chris. We definitely have a lot to talk about this weekend! He already enlisted (delayed entry)as a Nuke bc the recruiter told him that would look really good on his ROTC application."
That may or may nor be the case. I would speak to an OFFICER recruiter. They are very busy and can be difficult to get in touch with. There are at least two who contribute on airwarriors.com on a regular basis. Nuke recruits are highly prized in the recruiting world. Your recruiter may not have your best interest in mind.
"So honestly, I'm not sure he even has a choice now if he doesn't get the NROTC scholarship."
He definitely has a choice. Until he swears in at MEPS and signs up he's not in the Navy. He can leave DEP at any time. My nephew, a Navy Commander, helped with my son when we were going through the process. His advice: If you don't see it in writing, it's not happening.
"I know he will have some AP college credit. Can they also get credit for their Nuke school? And can they take college classes on the side?"
My son got zero credit for Nuke school (and he was a SPU). For STA-21 it is highly recommended that applicants complete CALC I and II and CALC based Physics I and II. My son took these classes while a SPU in Ballston Spa. FYI STA-21 is a process. It took my son three years to get selected (he was rejected his first two applications).
Please talk to a disinterested third party who has experience with officer recruiting, Naval Aviation, or both. If you found one who advised you son to enlist and go STA-21 to apply for pilot, I'd be shocked.
Your son has to identify his ultimate goal. Get his college paid for or become a pilot.
Feb 24, 2017
MichPad(STA21 Officer Mom)
Feb 24, 2017
Chris
MichPad, My son is a 2013 graduate of the Citadel! Go Dogs! My nephew is currently in Power School (USNA 16).
Feb 24, 2017
MichPad(STA21 Officer Mom)
IMO, if your son can get into a good school and have all, or part, of it paid for by doing NROTC, he should absolutely go that way. I encouraged my son to go that route, but he really wanted to "be in the Navy" and didn't want to wait. Wynona is correct that by they time they put their packet together and possibly get accepted, they are in for close to two years, mine was 18 months, but close enough.
That being said, enlisting is not the end of the world. My son has heard, and seen, that enlisted officers have a lot more respect than OCS officers. Enlisted know the difficulties of the Navy and respect those Officers who have been there too, and visa versa, they know what it's like to be enlisted and therefore have more of an idea what the enlisted sailor is going through. Another good thing about being enlisted, and being in STA-21, is not only is their college being paid for, they are also getting all of their Navy pay and benefits (except retirement, you don't accrue retirement while at college). My son was able to buy a house prior to being accepted (he was on Staff at Prototype), all paid for by his BAH.
I have a good friend who's husband was a Navy pilot for 24 years (OCS) and she always asks why did my son "do it the hard way", why didn't he do college and OCS? In a nut shell, because he didn't want to. He did it his way, albeit, the harder way, and the NOT guaranteed way.
You do have a lot to think about Glenni, I wish you the best of luck! I know how hard it is trying to "talk sense" or give some parental input to a stubborn teenager, but above all make sure he doesn't feel pressured by the recruiter to do what they want, he needs to do what HE wants.
Feb 24, 2017
Chris
MichPad,
" He did it his way, albeit, the harder way, and the NOT guaranteed way."
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
You have all been so helpful. Chris, he went to MEPS last week and did swear in and sign papers. Is that what you're talking about, or is there a second swearing in right before they ship?
I agree that he needs to identify his ultimate goal. He is actually wavering some on the pilot thing because he is so intrigued with the nuclear engineering side of it. He excels in science and math (took quantum physics for kicks in 10th grade online), and has (since all this came up) started talking about how cool it would be to command a nuclear ship or sub someday. I honestly don't know if it is just his way of preparing himself not to be disappointed in the event he doesn't get a scholarship, or if he is really rethinking things. He has been talking a lot lately about career service.
I just wish we would find out about the scholarship soon so he will know one way or the other!!
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
MichPad, my son has talked a lot about the benefits of being enlisted before being an officer, too. At this point all I can really do is just pray that God will guide his career path in the direction that is best for him.
Feb 24, 2017
Wynona
Glenni, all I can say is no matter what he chooses, all that matter is his heart. If he eventually really enlist, I know he will still make it as long as he put his heart and mind all to it. Good luck!
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
Wynona, you asked earlier about the Academy. He did apply, but did not receive an appointment. He took the ACT 3 times and made 29 the last two times. It just wasn't high enough for the Academy, and I'm honestly worried it won't be high enough for the scholarship. But he wrote an outstanding essay on his application, so I'm really hoping that essay combined with a strong interview and his GPA and class rank will carry the day!!
Feb 24, 2017
Chris
Feb 24, 2017
Glenni
I am so grateful for all of your insights. Thank you so much. I actually feel better about whichever way it goes. Like my husband says, we are pleased that he is determined to serve his country.
Feb 25, 2017
Glenni
Mar 17, 2017
Chris
Great to hear Glenni. IMHO the best possible outcome for your son.
Mar 17, 2017
NewNavyMom3
I am a new Navy mom with some questions about the STA-21 program. My son is just about to finish boot camp and then I believe heads to school in SC. If anyone is a bit experienced with the program and flow, please PM me because I have some general questions. Thanks
Aug 16, 2017
NavyMominVA
Aug 16, 2017
NewNavyMom3
NacyMominVA - thank you for the response. I guess for starters, what happens after boot camp in terms of training and when do they go back to complete a degree? He only had one year of college left and a strong physics/calculus background. Does everyone in the STA-21 program have the same schooling after bootcamp? Do they get to select the college where they finish their degree? And when does that happen?
Aug 16, 2017
NavyMominVA
Aug 16, 2017
Laura G
Hello :) I'm a Nuke Mom and my son is now in the STA-21 program. He previously served on the USS Alabama as an ETN. He just completed NSI and will start classes at Purdue in June. I'm very excited about this next leg of my son's journey in the Navy!
Apr 23, 2018
Chris
Congratulations to you and your son. My son was a Nuke ET sub vol., but he never served on a sub! He got orders to the Virginia a week after he was accepted to STA-21. Undergraduate school was a great time for my son. Your son will be the Big Man On Campus! With a paycheck! My son graduated and Commissioned in May 2013. He is now a Naval Aviator. Have fun, enjoy the ride!
Apr 23, 2018