u/Any-Proposal-7258

Please explain why also. Thank you!

I’m 24 years old and have a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. During college, I worked as a lake patrol officer, where I gained experience protecting natural resources and serving the public.

After graduating, I attended the police academy, but I tore my labrum during defensive tactics training. After surgery, I had to pursue a different career path.

Now I’m deciding between Marine Science Technician (MST) and Boatswain’s Mate (BM). I’m passionate about environmental protection, which makes the MST rating especially appealing, but I also enjoy the hands-on operational work and variety that comes with being a BM. The Coast Guard aligns perfectly with my education, experience, and desire to continue serving in a meaningful way. Thanks in advance

Does anyone here have experience in the Coast Guard? It aligns really well with my previous careers and my degree, so I’m seriously considering it. I’d love to hear what people enjoy about serving, what they don’t, and what day-to-day life is actually like.

What are your hobbies, interests, goals, and aspirations?
My hobbies are fly fishing, skiing, and hockey. I’m passionate about environmental protection. My goal is to do what I can while I can, even when I don’t feel like it, and to make a positive impact through my work.
What jobs are you interested in?
I’m most interested in becoming a Marine Science Technician (MST), with Boatswain’s Mate (BM) as another career field I’m interested in.
Why do you want to serve?
Environmental protection is the biggest reason. The Coast Guard aligns well with my background. I worked as a lake patrol officer while I was in college, earned a degree in criminal justice, and attended the police academy after graduation. The Coast Guard combines public service, environmental protection, and hands-on work in a way that fits my experience and interests.
What do you want out of service?
I want meaningful experiences, the opportunity to work in different environments, and exposure to a wide variety of people, missions, and career opportunities.
What aspect of service appeals to you?
After talking with more than 10 Coast Guard members, honestly, all of it appeals to me. Everything I’ve learned has reinforced that it’s the right fit for me.
What do you want to do after serving?
I’d like to continue working in environmental protection for an organization such as NOAA or the EPA.
Do you want to serve full-time or part-time?
Full-time.
Do you want to enlist or commission?
Enlist.
Do you want your work environment to be more or less military-like?
Less military-like. I like that the Coast Guard has a practical, mission-focused culture.
Do you prefer desk jobs?
Definitely not. I prefer being out in the field, staying active, and doing hands-on work.

Hey everyone,

I’m seriously considering joining the U.S. Coast Guard and wanted to hear from people who have served or are currently serving.

What are the biggest things you like about being in the Coast Guard? On the flip side, what are the biggest downsides or things you wish you had known before joining?

I’m interested in hearing about quality of life, leadership, duty stations, work-life balance, deployments, advancement opportunities, and anything else you think someone should know before making the decision.

I’d really appreciate honest opinions the good, the bad, and everything in between. Thanks!

USCG waiver

I had two shoulder dislocations while attending the police academy. The first time, nothing tore, but the second time I tore my labrum and was required to have surgery. I submitted a medical waiver for my shoulder back in May, and I was wondering if this is something that could disqualify me or if it’s just taking longer than normal to process. My recruiter told me it would take about 30 days, but it’s been well over that now. I was just hoping to get some insight on whether this delay is normal or if there may be an issue with my waiver. Thank you for the help!