Should I pay to get my STCW and AB if I’m planning to sail with MSC? I’m been waiting a long time and want to take advantage of other opportunities
I’m waiting on a drug test and a NEO date with MSC, and it’s almost been a year since I got the job offer. I’ve been in contact with CIVMAR support, and they assured me that I’ll get a NEO date eventually, but they have no idea when.
Meanwhile, my day job doesn’t pay a living wage and I really want to get started in the merchant marine. I’ve been reaching out to different companies, who aren’t really hiring for entry level, but some of them told me if I get my STCW and Able Seaman training, that it would give me more options.
I’m looking for some advice, because I know that MSC provides all that training once you get in, but I don’t know how much longer it’s going to take. I could probably save up enough money to do those classes in a couple months, then apply for other jobs in the meantime. But would it really be worth it?
With my luck, I’d probably finish the classes and then immediately get a NEO date, lol. But then again, what if I don’t? Like what if it takes another year and I’m still just waiting? Would appreciate any insight from people with more experience. Thanks.