u/Wandering_Gull

Hi all, I'm looking to make my second application to RFA this December (I joined recruitment late this June/July and the intake filled before I could arrange my DAA). This subreddit and Rum Ration have been incredibly useful to build up a picture of life in the RFA, I just have a few anxieties left.

• The big one, I've been applying for jobs for a while before RFA, and it's been suggested to me that I'm overqualified thanks to university degrees (MRes + PhD in spatial ecology). I have no issues with the career shift and think RFA work-life balance would suit me better frankly, but I'm worried this would make the interview a non-starter when I have to talk past experience. Can you get rejected for being 'overqualified'?
• I've done well living and working with the same team in the past, especially with friends among them. I do need a few hours of space per week though. I understand that workload varies a lot, but can you generally find a few hours downtime outside of meals and sleep hours?

Context for the above: I'm 31, have ~3 years experience in public sector (analytical), my fitness is ok but could use some work. I've done a fair bit of travelling and fieldwork, though not as much as I'd like. I'm interested in an ETO role to learn practical skills with instruments and the electrical systems that keep them running. I want to go with the RFA to be travelling more, on work and leave.

Advice appreciated 👍