So it is now the month of October 2015. My BOT application is going great! My form 56 was competed and signed by commander. My BOT profile looked great, and ALL my required memos from my commander and AFPC (PIF review) was signed. It was all tucked away in my binder and the only thing I was waiting on was my letter of recommendation. You may recall that this was a two and a half month ordeal my LOR wasn't signed until mid-January 2016!
Anyway, I was on cruise control! Everything in my control was completed and my deputy commander had everything under control regarding the LOR (ha ha). Then I got hit with a blindside Air Force Right Hook! An assignment notification...
So here is some background information on me. As you probably figured out I am an Airman Leadership School instructor. We are on assignment for four years with weekend and holidays off! It is an awesome schedule especially coming from the Defender career field. Anyway, I qualified for a base of preference (BOP) and I had full intention of using it to get to McChord AFB. I wanted McChord because I am from Hawaii and I wanted to be back on the west coast so that I could fly home (via space-a) whenever I wanted to. Well my wife thought it was a good idea to not apply for BOP because it is only for a continental united states (CONUS) move. She wanted to go overseas...so I updated my "dream sheet" with all overseas bases hoping to get a hit. Some of you all might be thinking [you idiot] by now....yes I know, but I didn't know then. Anyway I popped up as a mandatory mover and since I had no preference I got an enlisted assignment to where the Air Force Needed me. I won't tell you where (why not?)...
Mind you this is still October so I had a few more months to get everything together, but dang! I immediately opened my BOT guide and started reading up on the waiver process. The guide states having an assignment is an automatic dq, but it is waiverable. Questionnaire two has attachments that outline the waiver requirements. It stated that CONUS assignments required a 30-45 day buffer after the estimated close out date (45-60 for OCONUS). My report date to my assignment was 17 May 2016 and the estimated board release date was 15 April. This left me eligible, but it was way too close for comfort because board release dates were always delayed in the past...
So I was now in a tough position. I knew this whole board process was way too easy. Think about it; I had to still meet the application deadline, study for master sergeant, await board results, and out process for my PCS in case I did not get selected for OTS! It was stressful, but I couldn't sit around and whine about it cause nothing happens if we just whine and complain. I decided my best option was to apply for a report no later than date (RNLD) extension.
The RNLD extension process is done over mypers. It only requires both the gaining and losing commanders approval, best needs of the Air Force validation, and approval from AFPC...yea just that! Anyway, it is never smart to just submit this request through mypers. Commanders NEVER like to be blindsided by anything from anywhere. So I figured the best thing to do was to set up another meeting with my commander to explain what I was about to do and what she was going to see in her inbox.
My meeting was schedule the next duty day. I told my commander my plan of action which was to extend my RNLD by 30 days to keep me eligible in case the board release was delayed. She then asked me for my reason and how the Air Force deems this as an Air Force benefit. I explained to her that the extension requires approval by both commanders meaning that an approval implies no manning issues would occur. The Air Force also has a need to fill officer vacancies thru OTS. I figured the Air Force would see this as a benefit to the Air Force and not JUST a personal benefit. She liked where my mind was at and said that she would approve the extension request only after she hears from the gaining commander. She then asked if I would like her to call my gaining commander...this would be highly convenient, but....I am applying to be a commissioned officer so I should be able to do this type of stuff. I told her no and asked if she had any issues with me contacting the gaining commander directly. She said no and good luck. Reflecting while typing this made me wonder if this was a test of my (leadership mindset/potential) hmmm.
I looked up the gaining commanders number via the GAL and Facebook (ha ha). Why Facebook? Honestly, Facebook updates are more current than the GAL. Sometimes the GAL would list one person, but that person already pcs'd! The commander on Facebook was the same listed on the GAL so I figured it was win win.
I called him and the commander (not the secretary) answered. I introduced myself as an inbound and asked if this was a good time....he immediately asked if I worked anything through my chain of command. I assured him that I did and that I was given the blessing to call him directly. After a slight pause he asked me to hold....a few minutes later he came back on the line with "whats up"?
I explained my whole situation, went through an interrogation (Defenders ha ha), talked about where I have been and why I went PME, and a few off-topic conversations. He then said that he appreciates the phone call ahead of my application on mypers as he would have probably called my commander with a bunch of questions anyway and would be less inclined to approve it. His manning was good and a 30 day extension wouldn't do any harm nor would my selection to OTS. He then told me to submit my application asap and so that he could approve it today and wished me good luck!
I immediately went to mypers, opened the RNLD extension link and applied. I attached the specific attachment that outline the waiver protocol and a brief summary of my circumstance. My RNLD was approved by both commanders that same duty day and AFPC approved the overall extension a few duty days later. My new RNLD was now 17 June. This gave me a better buffer in case the board release date was extended AND to out process/pack in case I was not selected.
Why did I get a assignment?!? Well remember the post I did about memos? Well one of those memos was to initiate a code 05; a specific code that disables your assignment selection process. AFPC would see this as an assignment restriction and would not give you an assignment; however, I did not have this code on my records because the BOT guide specifically states NOT to submit this to the MPS until you're within 30 days of the application deadline. Yes, I have heard of people disobeying this rule and submitting it early, but I have integrity.
So now that my extension was approved I had to get back cracking at my application package. There are a few things that need to identify that I have an assignment. The two biggest things that I can think of is the questionnaire two and the waiver memo. The questionnaire was simple. All I did was update the assignment section and check the box that said waiver required. I then rerouted this to my commander for signature...not a problem because she was already aware of the situation. The next major object was the waiver memo.
So I dug into a few regs here to get clarity on the waiver memo process. This required a lot of reading in AFIs and decoding all the charts the AFI has on the assignment process. I also dug into the OTS AFI and the BOT guide references. As you can see, I did a lot of research and here is what I found: The assignment waiver process is a big deal and requires AFPC approval. This makes sense because they are the ones that WOULD issue, change, or terminate anything regarding assignments. If they are the approving authority then my waiver memo would need to be signed by them right?!!....well other regs specifically the guide stated that my commander would need to sign the memo indicating that he/she approves the application regardless of the reason for a waiver. This seemed a little contradicting. I then found other regs that said the commander signs on a few occasions....I then looked the OTS Foundation portal for answers, but only got people who "felt, thought, thinks, or knows a guy" regarding assignment waivers...nothing solid.
After research and no solid validation on who signs the memo....I decided to list my commanders signature block on the memo. I did this because thats what my research told me to do (mostly). I simply copied the template (eye balled) from the BOT guide with a brief explanation and had her sign. Of course she questioned me with why she needed to sign it. I explained and backed it up with regulations...she smiled, signed the form, and stated we need more people like you!
So, some of you readers may be thinking why do all that research? Couldn't you just call those OTS people or AFPC and ask them the question? For me this is both yes and no. Honestly, I feel that we need to go back to a culture where we start holding ourselves accountable and STOP relying
on other people! I don't know about you readers, but my subordinates know that they better do all they can to figuring something out for themselves before they ask me for assistance. Why do I do this? Because they develop into better Airmen because of it! This is because they get more out of hard work than they do with me micromanaging or spoon feeding them things. Please understand that I am an approachable NCO and my subordinates know it. They just understand my standards and expectations because I am very very clear...they know that if shit is about to hit the fan or if there is a risk in safety they better come to me and not dig their nose in a reg. Anyway, this is again in my opinion...rant over!
Another reason I didn't pick up the phone and call the OTS people for clarification is because of that dang (awesome) movie Admissions. Did you ever watch it? I seriously felt that Rose and company had a list of people that called them with questions (both stupid and legit). I also felt that they were looking for applicants who could figure shit out and get it done. I truly believe that is the reason why the eliminated the education center from the application process. I seriously know some past selects that didn't lift a finger because their education office applied for them!
Anyway, sorry for the long post. The waiver memo and questionnaire 2 was now signed by the commander and my assignment was extended. Just waiting on the LOR...but also to enjoy the Holidays...
See you on my next post, good luck and GO Air Force!
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Thursday, May 26, 2016
BOT Applicant Profile
So the updated BOT Application Guide with attachment 9 came out after I completed my Application Profile. This was both a relief and a stressor (distress). A relief because it was very very simple due to the fact they provide you a template! I never got a template and trying to eye ball spacing, format, and designing tables was not something I was good at. It was a distress because I had to do my profile all over again!
Anyway, download the attachment 9 from the BOT guide and go at it. Here are some of my suggestions and perspective on what should go on your profile.
- Please ensure your name is spelled correctly.
- use your gov't e-mail address
- List the correct board applying to!
Academic Education:
List it in the order of completion and use the template provided for spacing etc...
DO NOT round up your GPA. Type it in as is and there should not be any GPA for CCAFs...just type N/A.
Professional Military Education:
In my opinion these are PME courses AFTER BMT and the "official" ones. The official PME courses are: ALS, NCOA, SNCOA, Course 15/14, and SEJPME. All other courses should be listed under (in my opinion) Personal Achievements.
I listed ALS, NCOA, and Senior Enlisted Joint PME. DO NOT make up awards and no one cares if you were a nominee. List nominee in your personal achievements if you really want it in there. I was a DG (not done graduate ha ha) at NCOA.
Career Achievement:
So there are different view points on career achievements v personal achievements. I believe that career achievements are simply significant awards you have earned in your career. I kept it simple and listed any awards I earned from the squadron, group, wing, NAF, MAJCOM, or Air Force
I listed the Year, Award (NCO of the Year, qtr, month), Unit (Sq, NAF etc..) and the Base location
. I also added my BTZ because I thought that was significant to my career.
Personal Achievement:
This is where I added anything and everything to show I was the bomb! For example..
Scored above 95% on ALL pt assessments
My CCAF instructor certification(s)
Youth Championship Soccer Coach
Led Air Show something something
CCAF Award (if you know, then you know)
Gucci Schools (Sniper, SWAT, Ranger etc...)
Marathons completed; money raised (charity partners)
Bunch of leadership courses
You get the idea! I personally believe that nothing is out of bounds under personal achievement. Show off! let them know you're the real deal, but ultimately link how these achievements make you a LEADER!
Professional Affiliations:
AFSA, 5/6, JEC, Top III etc..should go here, but feel free to add any other civilian orgs as well. It is a HUGE benefit to show that you led them as President, Vice President, etc....if you have none of these positions....GO GET THEM!
Work Experience:
I personally categorized the work experience area by DUTY TITLES. However, I must note that you must ensure that each section have different responsibilities. For example we do the same job as PME Instructors, but they attempt to gucci up professional growth by listing ALS Instructor one year then PME instructor the next....its the same! So I just categorized the different duty titles and listed three bullet statements on what I accomplished. For example:
PME Instructor
- Really bad ass duty description
-bad ass duty description
-really really bad ass duty description
Remember the poop sandwich? Well I did the same thing here under work experience. I took my EPRs under each category and picked the best bullets under key duties and responsibilities. These are the bullets that explain what you do, control, manage, lead, etc....I took two of these statements (the best ones) and made them past tense! I then combined the HEAVY bullets and made SUPER BULLETS...Anyway, that is how I did it for each job category. Ensure you focus on leadership, leadership, leadership. I only used managed bullets when I didn't have anything else. Oh and my bullets were action impact bullets; not AIR (Action Impact Result) bullets.
I did not have any citations to list so I skipped this part of the profile. I copy and pasted my personal statement form the 56 and insert it where was required. I then listed my AFSCs (remember I have two; will soon have 3 ha ha). This is just asking for your AFSCs...not duty titles so you shouldn't have too many here. Ensure your dates match your career data brief/rru.
I then listed my AFSC choices in order. Please do not list the code, just the actual names of the specialty. You can find these in the BOT Guide.
* Every page needs to be initialed! I reviewed a lot of non-select packages and their initials looked like signatures!!!! Remember, the board is looking for people that can follow instructions! Make your initials look like initials***
I will sanitize my applicant profile and upload it here soon.
Go Air Force!
Anyway, download the attachment 9 from the BOT guide and go at it. Here are some of my suggestions and perspective on what should go on your profile.
- Please ensure your name is spelled correctly.
- use your gov't e-mail address
- List the correct board applying to!
Academic Education:
List it in the order of completion and use the template provided for spacing etc...
DO NOT round up your GPA. Type it in as is and there should not be any GPA for CCAFs...just type N/A.
Professional Military Education:
In my opinion these are PME courses AFTER BMT and the "official" ones. The official PME courses are: ALS, NCOA, SNCOA, Course 15/14, and SEJPME. All other courses should be listed under (in my opinion) Personal Achievements.
I listed ALS, NCOA, and Senior Enlisted Joint PME. DO NOT make up awards and no one cares if you were a nominee. List nominee in your personal achievements if you really want it in there. I was a DG (not done graduate ha ha) at NCOA.
Career Achievement:
So there are different view points on career achievements v personal achievements. I believe that career achievements are simply significant awards you have earned in your career. I kept it simple and listed any awards I earned from the squadron, group, wing, NAF, MAJCOM, or Air Force
I listed the Year, Award (NCO of the Year, qtr, month), Unit (Sq, NAF etc..) and the Base location
. I also added my BTZ because I thought that was significant to my career.
Personal Achievement:
This is where I added anything and everything to show I was the bomb! For example..
Scored above 95% on ALL pt assessments
My CCAF instructor certification(s)
Youth Championship Soccer Coach
Led Air Show something something
CCAF Award (if you know, then you know)
Gucci Schools (Sniper, SWAT, Ranger etc...)
Marathons completed; money raised (charity partners)
Bunch of leadership courses
You get the idea! I personally believe that nothing is out of bounds under personal achievement. Show off! let them know you're the real deal, but ultimately link how these achievements make you a LEADER!
Professional Affiliations:
AFSA, 5/6, JEC, Top III etc..should go here, but feel free to add any other civilian orgs as well. It is a HUGE benefit to show that you led them as President, Vice President, etc....if you have none of these positions....GO GET THEM!
Work Experience:
I personally categorized the work experience area by DUTY TITLES. However, I must note that you must ensure that each section have different responsibilities. For example we do the same job as PME Instructors, but they attempt to gucci up professional growth by listing ALS Instructor one year then PME instructor the next....its the same! So I just categorized the different duty titles and listed three bullet statements on what I accomplished. For example:
PME Instructor
- Really bad ass duty description
-bad ass duty description
-really really bad ass duty description
Remember the poop sandwich? Well I did the same thing here under work experience. I took my EPRs under each category and picked the best bullets under key duties and responsibilities. These are the bullets that explain what you do, control, manage, lead, etc....I took two of these statements (the best ones) and made them past tense! I then combined the HEAVY bullets and made SUPER BULLETS...Anyway, that is how I did it for each job category. Ensure you focus on leadership, leadership, leadership. I only used managed bullets when I didn't have anything else. Oh and my bullets were action impact bullets; not AIR (Action Impact Result) bullets.
I did not have any citations to list so I skipped this part of the profile. I copy and pasted my personal statement form the 56 and insert it where was required. I then listed my AFSCs (remember I have two; will soon have 3 ha ha). This is just asking for your AFSCs...not duty titles so you shouldn't have too many here. Ensure your dates match your career data brief/rru.
I then listed my AFSC choices in order. Please do not list the code, just the actual names of the specialty. You can find these in the BOT Guide.
* Every page needs to be initialed! I reviewed a lot of non-select packages and their initials looked like signatures!!!! Remember, the board is looking for people that can follow instructions! Make your initials look like initials***
I will sanitize my applicant profile and upload it here soon.
Go Air Force!
Personal Statement
The personal statement is in my opinion a tough attribute of the application package. You are only authorized a small amount of space to explain your OBJECTIVES and REASONS for desiring a commission. You want to CLEARLY state both of them and ensure it is written in a clear, concise, and educated manner. I honestly wrote this a few times and had a few officers read it. I also had http://journeytoairforceots.blogspot.com read it for some feedback. If I could do it all over again I would have less people review my personal statement. It was just way too many people offering their opinion and what not. Here are some quick bullet statements on how you should attack your personal statement:
- Type it in the actual AF FM 56. This is the only authorized length for the personal statement
- NO WHITE SPACE! The Air Force has OCD with white space so ensure you have NONE
- Don't worry about paragraphs; just type away and fill the space
- Answer what it asks for (Your Objectives and Reasons)
- DO NOT waste space talking about past accomplishments; talk about what you are going to do or what you have to offer and "How" you're going to do it. Your letter of recommendation and your BOT Profile is your opportunity to brag about what you have already achieved
- READ a grammar book (I know funny coming from me) and use what you learned in your personal statement. The Little, Brown Handbook is what I used.
- Fill in the space on the AF FM 56; then copy and paste it into word for SPELL CHECK! Also use the microsoft word readability statistics to get your reading/writing level above 14. Google it if you do not know what I am talking about. You should have used this in college as I always attempted to write my essay above level 12.
- Start your personal statement with the good ol "hook" sentence. Get the board to WANT to read your statement. Think about it; if this is anything like the SNCO board they only have a set amount of time to read each package. Make them want to spend the time with yours
I DID NOT waste any space explaining weak points in my personal statement. I just didn't feel like showing my a$$ ha ha. Please note that my AFOQT was not impressive and I did not bother explaining why!
Here is a peak at my personal statement:
The sensation I feel when leading Airmen is unparalleled to any experience thus far.................................................................................................................................................................................I graduated XXX Airmen to date and majority of them entered ALS with a lack of drive, motivation, and low energy for being in class..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................All these Airmen graduated with the passion to lead, motivation, and a passion to employ what they have learned..............................................................................................................................................................................as a direct result of my leadership! They not only know "how" but "want" to follow, enforce, and motivate their Airmen as outlined in AFI-Brown Book.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................that is leadership and commissioned officers are expected to lead!.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................failure is part of development..............................I used it as a learning tool and lessons learned..........................................................................................I am better because of it......................................................................................................................................................................I desire to further inspire Airmen to achieve and exceed their potential.....................................................................................................the Air Force is better as a result.........................................................................................................................................................................................My impact will ripple throughout the Air Force and stimulate limitless mission XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. Thank you for your time, consideration, and XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX to lead!
I hope this helped and gave you aspiring officers some good ideas. I am willing to review any personal statements and offer my feedback. Just e-mail it to AFEnlistedtoOfficer@gmail. com.
Go Air Force!
- Type it in the actual AF FM 56. This is the only authorized length for the personal statement
- NO WHITE SPACE! The Air Force has OCD with white space so ensure you have NONE
- Don't worry about paragraphs; just type away and fill the space
- Answer what it asks for (Your Objectives and Reasons)
- DO NOT waste space talking about past accomplishments; talk about what you are going to do or what you have to offer and "How" you're going to do it. Your letter of recommendation and your BOT Profile is your opportunity to brag about what you have already achieved
- READ a grammar book (I know funny coming from me) and use what you learned in your personal statement. The Little, Brown Handbook is what I used.
- Fill in the space on the AF FM 56; then copy and paste it into word for SPELL CHECK! Also use the microsoft word readability statistics to get your reading/writing level above 14. Google it if you do not know what I am talking about. You should have used this in college as I always attempted to write my essay above level 12.
- Start your personal statement with the good ol "hook" sentence. Get the board to WANT to read your statement. Think about it; if this is anything like the SNCO board they only have a set amount of time to read each package. Make them want to spend the time with yours
I DID NOT waste any space explaining weak points in my personal statement. I just didn't feel like showing my a$$ ha ha. Please note that my AFOQT was not impressive and I did not bother explaining why!
Here is a peak at my personal statement:
The sensation I feel when leading Airmen is unparalleled to any experience thus far.................................................................................................................................................................................I graduated XXX Airmen to date and majority of them entered ALS with a lack of drive, motivation, and low energy for being in class..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................All these Airmen graduated with the passion to lead, motivation, and a passion to employ what they have learned..............................................................................................................................................................................as a direct result of my leadership! They not only know "how" but "want" to follow, enforce, and motivate their Airmen as outlined in AFI-Brown Book.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................that is leadership and commissioned officers are expected to lead!.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................failure is part of development..............................I used it as a learning tool and lessons learned..........................................................................................I am better because of it......................................................................................................................................................................I desire to further inspire Airmen to achieve and exceed their potential.....................................................................................................the Air Force is better as a result.........................................................................................................................................................................................My impact will ripple throughout the Air Force and stimulate limitless mission XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. Thank you for your time, consideration, and XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX to lead!
I hope this helped and gave you aspiring officers some good ideas. I am willing to review any personal statements and offer my feedback. Just e-mail it to AFEnlistedtoOfficer@gmail. com.
Go Air Force!
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
AF Form 56 Page 6 Comments and Recommendations
So the purpose of this blog is to explain what I did on my application. The comments and recommendations SHOULD come from your unit commander. It is the official section of the 56 where the commander interviews and adds comments/recommendations for the board to review.
I personally scheduled this meeting (meeting #2) with my commander. I was prepared for it to be very formal so I practice my reporting procedures and guesstimated what type of questions she may ask me. I also ensured to square my uniform away! This was service uniform day so I was extra careful on the placement of my badges, ribbons, name tag etc...
I reported to her office, knocked ONCE and was told to enter. I did my facing movements via the most direct route, saluted...and she cut me off as I started to do my reporting statement (thank goodness). She told me to sit down and said whats up?!? The whole meeting was very very informal and she just wanted to have a conversation. We talked about my aspirations, what career field I was hoping for, my family, and hobbies etc...Like I said very informal. She then wrapped up the conversation by saying I did not complete your pg 6 of the form 56. I was like dang...but she said I want you to do it. I am curious to see what you would rate yourself and how you would write your own comments and recommendations! She then said to bring it to her as soon as I was done! Till this day I do not know if this was purposely done as a leadership tool or if she was just lazy ha ha!
I got back to my office, opened up my 56 and started plugging away. I marked myself all the way to the right on the interview section (naturally) and started plugging away at my comments and recommendations. In my opinion, the comments and recommendations NEED to be bullets! Yes, the form says to use bullet format, but I have seen narrative writing!
So as an Airman Leadership School instructor we teach bullet writing. However, we teach it at a very very basic level. Our format is the AIR bullet or Action/Accomplishment/Impact/Result bullet. The reason we keep it simple is because Airmen are supposed to come thru our course with NO experience what so ever. They are also supposed to "Build upon" this basic structure when they get back to their units. We all know, however, that supervisors pretty much make their subordinates write their own bullets....so students are pretty much more advance in their own units style of writing before they even get to us! Very frustrating...anyway venting over ha ha!
So back to the comments. I decided to print out all my EPRs and start highlighting my really really good bullets AND my key duties task and responsibilities statements. I then started combining these bullets to make SUPER bullets. So what is a super bullet?!? It is pretty much two accomplishments, two impacts, and a combined bad ass result but with the brevity to keep it all on one line. You are probably wondering where did I learn to write this way? Well check out the site http://www.brownbaglessons.com there is a lot of detailed information on how to write. I used this as a supervisor in security forces and as an ALS instructor....of course I didn't teach this method!
Anyway, I wrote all my bullets (19 in total) and thought it was really good. I even used the "poop sandwich" by racking my really good bullets up top, my good bullets in the middle, and my bad ass super awesome bullets at the bottom. You should ask someone about this technique if you're really confused or don't understand why I (Air Force) does things this way!
Oh almost forgot, ENSURE YOUR BULLETS display your LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL; NOT MANAGEMENT. Do you know the difference?
So as I was saying...when my bullets were complete I decided to take a piece of advice from http://journeytoairforceots.blogspot.com and had an OIC from a previous assignment provide me feedback. He gave me some real blunt constructive feedback that blew my mind. It was an eye opening experience to not only see his feedback, but the "why" behind it. He was able to take my bullets and aid me in transform them into "Officer" like bullets. I was really impressed and truly thankful for his assistance.
The PUSH statement. Bullet 19 for me wasn't actually a true AIR bullet. It was actually a push statement kinda like our old "mandatory" promote bullets on our EPRs. This was the only true bullet that met the recommendation criteria. I felt that it was best to show LEADERSHIP in 18 bullets and a RECOMMEND in the final bullet that the board members will see. Here is a sanitized example/version of my pg 6:
- Deployed ISO XXX; only Amn selected for NCO duties...hand-picked as Fire Tm Ldr--cleared X villages/detained XX prnl w/ no casualties
- spearheaded tm short-notice inspection; renewed CCAF accreditation as tm linchpin--solidified XXX (MAJCOM) tm of the Year award
- My #X out of 21 TSgts in Squadron! Winner of XAF NCOY 'XX/back-to-back Xth FSS NCOY 'XX & 'XX/NCOA DG--highly recommend for commission!
These are sanitized and may not be the exact length for proper fitting. This is one bullet from the top, middle, and bottom of the recommendation section.
* Please be careful from broad statements. Example of broad statements are:
Best OTS candidate
Truly Among the best NCOs
One of the finest in my unit
These statements really don't say anything. The board wants to know specifically where you rank.
As of right now the AFI does not allow unit commanders to list stratification remarks for TSgts eligible for MSgt. I actually don't like this because majority of the Air Force will be marked as Promote on their EPR. Well I only think it is smart to state "where" you fall in the rack and stack. But that is just me and this was my second vent so I will just cut it out.
FYI I was marked as "Promote" on my EPR. Did this hurt me in the board? Possibly, but I specificaly asked my commander where I stood amongst my peer group and she told me. I needed this data to display on my OTS package and I did it in my last bullet. I won't tell you exactly where I fell but...
Currently only the Top 5% can get promote now; the top 10% can receive must promotes. You should have noticed that there were 21 eligible TSgts so you do the math and figure out where I stood....I was the runner up for MP.
With that being said you should see why stratification statements is important on the recommendations. The board truly needs to know how you compare to your peers when 89% of your peers may be in the "Promote" category.
So I scheduled another meeting with my commander to show her my completed product. She was very impressed with my bullet writing and was good with the way I rated my self on the interview form. She made some very MINOR changes (Personally I think to show she did something haha) and signed the form! WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER. Please keep in mind that I already had her signature blocked type out and ready for her signature.
Thanks for reading my blog. I am open to review any of your comments/recommendations on your pg 6. My next post will be about the personal statement.
Until then... GO AIR FORCE
I personally scheduled this meeting (meeting #2) with my commander. I was prepared for it to be very formal so I practice my reporting procedures and guesstimated what type of questions she may ask me. I also ensured to square my uniform away! This was service uniform day so I was extra careful on the placement of my badges, ribbons, name tag etc...
I reported to her office, knocked ONCE and was told to enter. I did my facing movements via the most direct route, saluted...and she cut me off as I started to do my reporting statement (thank goodness). She told me to sit down and said whats up?!? The whole meeting was very very informal and she just wanted to have a conversation. We talked about my aspirations, what career field I was hoping for, my family, and hobbies etc...Like I said very informal. She then wrapped up the conversation by saying I did not complete your pg 6 of the form 56. I was like dang...but she said I want you to do it. I am curious to see what you would rate yourself and how you would write your own comments and recommendations! She then said to bring it to her as soon as I was done! Till this day I do not know if this was purposely done as a leadership tool or if she was just lazy ha ha!
I got back to my office, opened up my 56 and started plugging away. I marked myself all the way to the right on the interview section (naturally) and started plugging away at my comments and recommendations. In my opinion, the comments and recommendations NEED to be bullets! Yes, the form says to use bullet format, but I have seen narrative writing!
So as an Airman Leadership School instructor we teach bullet writing. However, we teach it at a very very basic level. Our format is the AIR bullet or Action/Accomplishment/Impact/Result bullet. The reason we keep it simple is because Airmen are supposed to come thru our course with NO experience what so ever. They are also supposed to "Build upon" this basic structure when they get back to their units. We all know, however, that supervisors pretty much make their subordinates write their own bullets....so students are pretty much more advance in their own units style of writing before they even get to us! Very frustrating...anyway venting over ha ha!
So back to the comments. I decided to print out all my EPRs and start highlighting my really really good bullets AND my key duties task and responsibilities statements. I then started combining these bullets to make SUPER bullets. So what is a super bullet?!? It is pretty much two accomplishments, two impacts, and a combined bad ass result but with the brevity to keep it all on one line. You are probably wondering where did I learn to write this way? Well check out the site http://www.brownbaglessons.com there is a lot of detailed information on how to write. I used this as a supervisor in security forces and as an ALS instructor....of course I didn't teach this method!
Anyway, I wrote all my bullets (19 in total) and thought it was really good. I even used the "poop sandwich" by racking my really good bullets up top, my good bullets in the middle, and my bad ass super awesome bullets at the bottom. You should ask someone about this technique if you're really confused or don't understand why I (Air Force) does things this way!
Oh almost forgot, ENSURE YOUR BULLETS display your LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL; NOT MANAGEMENT. Do you know the difference?
So as I was saying...when my bullets were complete I decided to take a piece of advice from http://journeytoairforceots.blogspot.com and had an OIC from a previous assignment provide me feedback. He gave me some real blunt constructive feedback that blew my mind. It was an eye opening experience to not only see his feedback, but the "why" behind it. He was able to take my bullets and aid me in transform them into "Officer" like bullets. I was really impressed and truly thankful for his assistance.
The PUSH statement. Bullet 19 for me wasn't actually a true AIR bullet. It was actually a push statement kinda like our old "mandatory" promote bullets on our EPRs. This was the only true bullet that met the recommendation criteria. I felt that it was best to show LEADERSHIP in 18 bullets and a RECOMMEND in the final bullet that the board members will see. Here is a sanitized example/version of my pg 6:
- Deployed ISO XXX; only Amn selected for NCO duties...hand-picked as Fire Tm Ldr--cleared X villages/detained XX prnl w/ no casualties
- spearheaded tm short-notice inspection; renewed CCAF accreditation as tm linchpin--solidified XXX (MAJCOM) tm of the Year award
- My #X out of 21 TSgts in Squadron! Winner of XAF NCOY 'XX/back-to-back Xth FSS NCOY 'XX & 'XX/NCOA DG--highly recommend for commission!
These are sanitized and may not be the exact length for proper fitting. This is one bullet from the top, middle, and bottom of the recommendation section.
* Please be careful from broad statements. Example of broad statements are:
Best OTS candidate
Truly Among the best NCOs
One of the finest in my unit
These statements really don't say anything. The board wants to know specifically where you rank.
As of right now the AFI does not allow unit commanders to list stratification remarks for TSgts eligible for MSgt. I actually don't like this because majority of the Air Force will be marked as Promote on their EPR. Well I only think it is smart to state "where" you fall in the rack and stack. But that is just me and this was my second vent so I will just cut it out.
FYI I was marked as "Promote" on my EPR. Did this hurt me in the board? Possibly, but I specificaly asked my commander where I stood amongst my peer group and she told me. I needed this data to display on my OTS package and I did it in my last bullet. I won't tell you exactly where I fell but...
Currently only the Top 5% can get promote now; the top 10% can receive must promotes. You should have noticed that there were 21 eligible TSgts so you do the math and figure out where I stood....I was the runner up for MP.
With that being said you should see why stratification statements is important on the recommendations. The board truly needs to know how you compare to your peers when 89% of your peers may be in the "Promote" category.
So I scheduled another meeting with my commander to show her my completed product. She was very impressed with my bullet writing and was good with the way I rated my self on the interview form. She made some very MINOR changes (Personally I think to show she did something haha) and signed the form! WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER. Please keep in mind that I already had her signature blocked type out and ready for her signature.
Thanks for reading my blog. I am open to review any of your comments/recommendations on your pg 6. My next post will be about the personal statement.
Until then... GO AIR FORCE
Sunday, May 15, 2016
AF FM 56
The AF Form 56 honestly caused me some headaches. In hindsight I should not have stressed as much as I did. I mentioned earlier, that I was paranoid about attention to detail so I seriously ended up checking, rechecking, and checking again! The crazy part is I found something wrong EVERY TIME I checked it.
So how do you get the AF FM 56:
I got mine from AF Portals Pubs and Forms. If I could do it again, I would simply download it from the AD SharePoint listed under enlistment tools.
Page 1:
Section 1:
1. Name- DO NOT caps lock and spell Last, First Middle Initial
2. Current Address NO FLOATERS! Meaning ensure the text rest as close to the bottom as possible.
3. Home Address-Ensure this matches your official records (vRED, RRU, etc...)
4. Legal State of residence: Ensure this is accurate. If you changed your state of residence for tax purposes make sure you type the correct one! Also a common trend I saw with non-selects was a missing zip code!
5. Personal Data: Self explanatory; HOWEVER, ensure you insert dates as noted on the form. "enter dates in YEAR, MONTH, DAY sequence (i.e 19950715)
6. Active Duty Applicants: self explanatory, but follow date sequence and NO FLOATERS on address.
Home E-Mail address: Please get rid of your high school "cool guy/gal" e-mail. You're trying to impress the board so ensure it is a professional address. First Name. Last Name @gmail.com/@yahoo.com is always appropriate.
7C. Please ensure that you properly spell the AFSC you are requesting. DO NOT insert the codes.
7D. You MUST select YES and ensure all other blocks are marked appropriately.
7B, 8, 9 ARE LEFT BLANK per BOT GUIDE.
Page 2
10. Check the appropriate block for PPL and CPL....I typed N/A in other advance aeronautical ratings...I am not that COOL,
11A Mark appropriately
11B BLANK for me
11C relates to 11A and 11B so I checked NO
12. Mark approrpriately
13. Yes
As mentioned in earlier post, I have two AFSCs 3PO71 and 8T000 so I listed them both.
14. Mark Appropriately
15. Be totally honest in this block. I honestly marked no here. I did not even have a single traffic ticket. I know it is hard to believe and I figured the board would find this hard to believe as well. I ordered a completed driving record history from my local DMV in case I got the call to prove I had none....I never got the call.
I recommend ordering a driving history from your DMV if you can't recall your tickets/dates and fees. They want you to be completely honest here so ensure you provide them the most accurate information possible.
All other blocks were checked NO
Page 3
* This is another common error I found on non-selects application. Block 19 of AF FM 56 should only have ONE ENTRY for Air Force employment. BOT GUIDE A8.1.3.1 LAST SENTENCE*
I typed in my most recent position with accurate dates. REASON TERMINATED should state Still on Active Duty. I recommend matching this to your Career Data Brief.
20. Education Experience:
I typed in my undergraduate degree. I wasn't cool enough to have honors and scholarships so all other blocks had N/A
21. READ EACH STATEMENT and INITIAL or WRITE N/A. Each applicant will be different, but I initialed:
A
B N/A
C
D
D1 N/A
D2 N/A
D3 N/A
E
F BLANK
F1
F2
G
H NA
I NA
Page 4.
Ready each statement carefully and mark appropriately. All were NA for me!
22. The personal statement was quite the challenge. EVERYONE stressed over this statement and so should you because this is the time to explain the WHY behind your application. I will do a separate post on this later.
22A I initialed
22B N/A
Date appropriately to sequence, type your name (Last, First, Middle Initial) DON'T FORGET TO SIGN!
Page 5
24. Computing Data:
I have two CCAFs and one undergraduate degree. My block 24 looked like this:
Community College of the Air Force A.S
Community College of the Air Force A.S
Awesome Sauce University B.A
Per the BOT Guide I DID NOT compute the GPA! A8.1.4.1 states to leave all other blocks blank so I did. DO NOT INSERT N/A
25. The education office had no business assisting anyone during my application. They did not want to review any information prior to submitting to the board. A.8.1.4.2 states the Supervisor, First Sergeant, or Commander could sign this portion. I wrote in the date in accordance to the sequence, typed my supervisors name to include is GRADE, not RANK and had him sign,
26-28. Mark appropriately and have your unit commander INITIAL. *My commanders initials looked like signatures so I had her do it again by initialing in letters; not script*
I also wrote Not Applicable in block B Assignment Limitations..not NA
Remember it is your application, be as picky as you need to be!
Page 6:
The Interview and the Comments and Recommendations deserve its own post. I will be sure to post my two cents on this page of the FM 56 soon!
Page 7:
I simply left this page blank as I did not require it.
So how do you get the AF FM 56:
I got mine from AF Portals Pubs and Forms. If I could do it again, I would simply download it from the AD SharePoint listed under enlistment tools.
Page 1:
Section 1:
1. Name- DO NOT caps lock and spell Last, First Middle Initial
2. Current Address NO FLOATERS! Meaning ensure the text rest as close to the bottom as possible.
3. Home Address-Ensure this matches your official records (vRED, RRU, etc...)
4. Legal State of residence: Ensure this is accurate. If you changed your state of residence for tax purposes make sure you type the correct one! Also a common trend I saw with non-selects was a missing zip code!
5. Personal Data: Self explanatory; HOWEVER, ensure you insert dates as noted on the form. "enter dates in YEAR, MONTH, DAY sequence (i.e 19950715)
6. Active Duty Applicants: self explanatory, but follow date sequence and NO FLOATERS on address.
Home E-Mail address: Please get rid of your high school "cool guy/gal" e-mail. You're trying to impress the board so ensure it is a professional address. First Name. Last Name @gmail.com/@yahoo.com is always appropriate.
7C. Please ensure that you properly spell the AFSC you are requesting. DO NOT insert the codes.
7D. You MUST select YES and ensure all other blocks are marked appropriately.
7B, 8, 9 ARE LEFT BLANK per BOT GUIDE.
Page 2
10. Check the appropriate block for PPL and CPL....I typed N/A in other advance aeronautical ratings...I am not that COOL,
11A Mark appropriately
11B BLANK for me
11C relates to 11A and 11B so I checked NO
12. Mark approrpriately
13. Yes
As mentioned in earlier post, I have two AFSCs 3PO71 and 8T000 so I listed them both.
14. Mark Appropriately
15. Be totally honest in this block. I honestly marked no here. I did not even have a single traffic ticket. I know it is hard to believe and I figured the board would find this hard to believe as well. I ordered a completed driving record history from my local DMV in case I got the call to prove I had none....I never got the call.
I recommend ordering a driving history from your DMV if you can't recall your tickets/dates and fees. They want you to be completely honest here so ensure you provide them the most accurate information possible.
All other blocks were checked NO
Page 3
* This is another common error I found on non-selects application. Block 19 of AF FM 56 should only have ONE ENTRY for Air Force employment. BOT GUIDE A8.1.3.1 LAST SENTENCE*
I typed in my most recent position with accurate dates. REASON TERMINATED should state Still on Active Duty. I recommend matching this to your Career Data Brief.
20. Education Experience:
I typed in my undergraduate degree. I wasn't cool enough to have honors and scholarships so all other blocks had N/A
21. READ EACH STATEMENT and INITIAL or WRITE N/A. Each applicant will be different, but I initialed:
A
B N/A
C
D
D1 N/A
D2 N/A
D3 N/A
E
F BLANK
F1
F2
G
H NA
I NA
Page 4.
Ready each statement carefully and mark appropriately. All were NA for me!
22. The personal statement was quite the challenge. EVERYONE stressed over this statement and so should you because this is the time to explain the WHY behind your application. I will do a separate post on this later.
22A I initialed
22B N/A
Date appropriately to sequence, type your name (Last, First, Middle Initial) DON'T FORGET TO SIGN!
Page 5
24. Computing Data:
I have two CCAFs and one undergraduate degree. My block 24 looked like this:
Community College of the Air Force A.S
Community College of the Air Force A.S
Awesome Sauce University B.A
Per the BOT Guide I DID NOT compute the GPA! A8.1.4.1 states to leave all other blocks blank so I did. DO NOT INSERT N/A
25. The education office had no business assisting anyone during my application. They did not want to review any information prior to submitting to the board. A.8.1.4.2 states the Supervisor, First Sergeant, or Commander could sign this portion. I wrote in the date in accordance to the sequence, typed my supervisors name to include is GRADE, not RANK and had him sign,
26-28. Mark appropriately and have your unit commander INITIAL. *My commanders initials looked like signatures so I had her do it again by initialing in letters; not script*
I also wrote Not Applicable in block B Assignment Limitations..not NA
Remember it is your application, be as picky as you need to be!
Page 6:
The Interview and the Comments and Recommendations deserve its own post. I will be sure to post my two cents on this page of the FM 56 soon!
Page 7:
I simply left this page blank as I did not require it.
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Letter of Recommendation
The letter of recommendation (LOR)is a huge topic of debate whenever you talk about applying for OTS...speaking of OTS I need to stop calling it that. It is now TFIT/TFOT which I believe stands for Total Force Indoctrination Training and Total Force Officer Training. I will write more about this later as I am still in the dark.
Anyway it is a huge debate about who should write this LOR. Many people say it doesn't matter who writes it as long as they personally know you and can explain your leadership potential. You will see many people state their LT, shirt, or even Chief wrote it. The justification is that they truly know how they work and how they can lead Airmen. That is cool and all, but I will tell you that NOT ONE individual knows me better than ME. So yes, you guessed it I wrote my LOR.
Here is my thought process. I am the one attempting to gain a commission and only I truly know my life story, career history, lessons learned, and I even dare to say leadership potential. Think about it...If you were to write a book would you have someone other than you write it?!! I hope not! I would seriously write my own book and have some cool grammar gucci dude make modifications...dang makes too much sense right?!
So yes, I wrote my own LOR. Here is what I did. I followed the example template in the BOT Guide. It had a unique type of format that I just followed because I was paranoid that they were looking for people with attention to detail. It was pretty much standard memo format, but a few things that I would never do operationally or seen in the operational Air Force. You will see what I mean when you take a peak at it. The BOT Guide states that it should not be longer than two pages. Well my LOR was exactly one page long.
Think about it...the board members probably rate at least a 100 packages a day. Do you really think they have time to grasp all the information from a two page LOR? In my opinion they DONT. I figured it would be just like the SNCO board where they are under a time crunch. So my LOR was pretty much like how we teach Bullet Writing in Airman Leadership School--Accurate, Brief, and Specific.
My LOR, in my opinion, was AWESOME (bias?) I polished it up really good and read the BOT Guide again to ensure I got everything right. The BOT Guide stated: It is recommended that someone other than the unit commander sign the LOR. This is because the unit commander should be doing the interview on AF FM 56 (more on this beast paper later). This was a huge catch because I intended to have my unit commander sign it as well. This may have been disastrous.
I decided that my deputy commander would be an awesome person to sign my LOR. I made an appointment to speak with the deputy. The meeting pretty much mirrored the meet with my unit commander. In the end the deputy was all about signing my LOR and to e-mail it to her right away. I immediately went to my office and started hammering away at the e-mail...
The e-mail pretty much thanked her for the time, my LOR was attached, and that I was open for any feedback. I also ended the e-mail by stating I truly appreciate her signing my LOR; however, I would truly appreciate her professional opinion regarding my LOR being elevated higher in the chain of command...
I forgot to mention that this was now around October and I still had about 3 months to get my application submitted to SharePoint. Here is where I went wrong...I sent my LOR off and worked on all the other items in my application package without ever following up! It was crazy! Yes I should have followed up, but I ASSUMED (I know) that my deputy commander was on top of it! Well, lets just say that other things in the squadron took priority...
I will not torcher you with the details of this 2.5 month ordeal with my LOR. So to make its all short: My LOR made it to the group commander for signature. He called me in for an interview, made a few recommendations, and stated that he would be happy to sign my LOR....but that he would not. He said that his interview with me and my application package was impressive enough to warrant a wing commander (Senior Rater) signature. I was ecstatic! I was even more excited when he said he would bring it to the wing commander himself so I do not have to worry about routing it up. I got my LOR two duty days later and signed by the wing king!
So back to the whole things about it should be someone that knows you! Well I don't personally work for the wing commander. I do see him every class and he is always at our graduations and we talk from time to time. Do not restrict yourself on your LOR. Attempt to get someone up the chain of command to sign it. Because lets be real...rank matters with stuff like this! Also look at it from a board perspective. Do you really think they are thinking hmmm...I wonder if the wing commander truly knows this person. I don't think so! If I was on the board I would think "wow, this individual got a wing commander to sign his LOR...he must be the shiznit!"
***A wing commander/group commander/combatant commander doesn't put their john hancock on an LOR for anyone/everyone***
Here is a little snippet of my LOR:
Para 1
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend....
Since his enlistment in 20xx (name) has distinguished himself as (BTZ, NCOA DG, etc...)
He is my finest (Duty Position) in the wing and held other key positions such as (5/6 Pres, AFSA)
Other notable achievements include (NAF award, Wg Awds, you get the idea)
Para 2
I consider Sergeant So and So as the linchpin of the (Duty Section). He led his team in inspections and earned outstanding ratings etc...he also pushes his team both professionally and personally as educators of tomorrows leaders. He was the catalyst to the team being awarded the XXXX Majcom Team of the Year....
Para 3
Sergeant blah blah blah is the epitome of leadership. His graduates "want" to lead as a direct result of his leadership. He educates and inspires others to lead and the Air Force is better because of it....He will have a limitless impact on our Air Force.
Para 4
Finally Sergeant Awesome sauce displays high moral courage....sets the example...holds the line of standards and accountability. He was ranked #X out of 21 eligible TSgts in the EFDP. Selecting him for commission is in the best interest of the Air Force....I whole heartedly endorse him...if you do not select him...I would like to know why! Please contact me at ......you know how it goes.
So as I mentioned earlier...who best to write a page about your character, career, and leadership potential than you? As you can see I wrote my own book (page) and had the experts modify it and make recommendations and the wing king signed it! I was truly happy about it!
Please note that a common theme among non-selects this board was that both the unit commander signed the AF FM 56 and the LOR. I am not saying this is why they did not get selected, but the board is looking at the whole person concept so it is just smart to get other points of view...especially when the BOT Guide recommends that they be two different people!
Also do not be discouraged if someone other than a Gp or Wg commander signs it. I can think of 3 people that had either their chief, 1slt, and squadron commander sign their LOR and they got selected. Remember whole person concept!
I hope this helps...I am open to review any LORs or ANYTHING. Just send it to AFEnlistedtoOfficer@gmail.com.
Take care and GO AIR FORCE!
Anyway it is a huge debate about who should write this LOR. Many people say it doesn't matter who writes it as long as they personally know you and can explain your leadership potential. You will see many people state their LT, shirt, or even Chief wrote it. The justification is that they truly know how they work and how they can lead Airmen. That is cool and all, but I will tell you that NOT ONE individual knows me better than ME. So yes, you guessed it I wrote my LOR.
Here is my thought process. I am the one attempting to gain a commission and only I truly know my life story, career history, lessons learned, and I even dare to say leadership potential. Think about it...If you were to write a book would you have someone other than you write it?!! I hope not! I would seriously write my own book and have some cool grammar gucci dude make modifications...dang makes too much sense right?!
So yes, I wrote my own LOR. Here is what I did. I followed the example template in the BOT Guide. It had a unique type of format that I just followed because I was paranoid that they were looking for people with attention to detail. It was pretty much standard memo format, but a few things that I would never do operationally or seen in the operational Air Force. You will see what I mean when you take a peak at it. The BOT Guide states that it should not be longer than two pages. Well my LOR was exactly one page long.
Think about it...the board members probably rate at least a 100 packages a day. Do you really think they have time to grasp all the information from a two page LOR? In my opinion they DONT. I figured it would be just like the SNCO board where they are under a time crunch. So my LOR was pretty much like how we teach Bullet Writing in Airman Leadership School--Accurate, Brief, and Specific.
My LOR, in my opinion, was AWESOME (bias?) I polished it up really good and read the BOT Guide again to ensure I got everything right. The BOT Guide stated: It is recommended that someone other than the unit commander sign the LOR. This is because the unit commander should be doing the interview on AF FM 56 (more on this beast paper later). This was a huge catch because I intended to have my unit commander sign it as well. This may have been disastrous.
I decided that my deputy commander would be an awesome person to sign my LOR. I made an appointment to speak with the deputy. The meeting pretty much mirrored the meet with my unit commander. In the end the deputy was all about signing my LOR and to e-mail it to her right away. I immediately went to my office and started hammering away at the e-mail...
The e-mail pretty much thanked her for the time, my LOR was attached, and that I was open for any feedback. I also ended the e-mail by stating I truly appreciate her signing my LOR; however, I would truly appreciate her professional opinion regarding my LOR being elevated higher in the chain of command...
I forgot to mention that this was now around October and I still had about 3 months to get my application submitted to SharePoint. Here is where I went wrong...I sent my LOR off and worked on all the other items in my application package without ever following up! It was crazy! Yes I should have followed up, but I ASSUMED (I know) that my deputy commander was on top of it! Well, lets just say that other things in the squadron took priority...
I will not torcher you with the details of this 2.5 month ordeal with my LOR. So to make its all short: My LOR made it to the group commander for signature. He called me in for an interview, made a few recommendations, and stated that he would be happy to sign my LOR....but that he would not. He said that his interview with me and my application package was impressive enough to warrant a wing commander (Senior Rater) signature. I was ecstatic! I was even more excited when he said he would bring it to the wing commander himself so I do not have to worry about routing it up. I got my LOR two duty days later and signed by the wing king!
So back to the whole things about it should be someone that knows you! Well I don't personally work for the wing commander. I do see him every class and he is always at our graduations and we talk from time to time. Do not restrict yourself on your LOR. Attempt to get someone up the chain of command to sign it. Because lets be real...rank matters with stuff like this! Also look at it from a board perspective. Do you really think they are thinking hmmm...I wonder if the wing commander truly knows this person. I don't think so! If I was on the board I would think "wow, this individual got a wing commander to sign his LOR...he must be the shiznit!"
***A wing commander/group commander/combatant commander doesn't put their john hancock on an LOR for anyone/everyone***
Here is a little snippet of my LOR:
Para 1
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend....
Since his enlistment in 20xx (name) has distinguished himself as (BTZ, NCOA DG, etc...)
He is my finest (Duty Position) in the wing and held other key positions such as (5/6 Pres, AFSA)
Other notable achievements include (NAF award, Wg Awds, you get the idea)
Para 2
I consider Sergeant So and So as the linchpin of the (Duty Section). He led his team in inspections and earned outstanding ratings etc...he also pushes his team both professionally and personally as educators of tomorrows leaders. He was the catalyst to the team being awarded the XXXX Majcom Team of the Year....
Para 3
Sergeant blah blah blah is the epitome of leadership. His graduates "want" to lead as a direct result of his leadership. He educates and inspires others to lead and the Air Force is better because of it....He will have a limitless impact on our Air Force.
Para 4
Finally Sergeant Awesome sauce displays high moral courage....sets the example...holds the line of standards and accountability. He was ranked #X out of 21 eligible TSgts in the EFDP. Selecting him for commission is in the best interest of the Air Force....I whole heartedly endorse him...if you do not select him...I would like to know why! Please contact me at ......you know how it goes.
So as I mentioned earlier...who best to write a page about your character, career, and leadership potential than you? As you can see I wrote my own book (page) and had the experts modify it and make recommendations and the wing king signed it! I was truly happy about it!
Please note that a common theme among non-selects this board was that both the unit commander signed the AF FM 56 and the LOR. I am not saying this is why they did not get selected, but the board is looking at the whole person concept so it is just smart to get other points of view...especially when the BOT Guide recommends that they be two different people!
Also do not be discouraged if someone other than a Gp or Wg commander signs it. I can think of 3 people that had either their chief, 1slt, and squadron commander sign their LOR and they got selected. Remember whole person concept!
I hope this helps...I am open to review any LORs or ANYTHING. Just send it to AFEnlistedtoOfficer@gmail.com.
Take care and GO AIR FORCE!
Monday, May 9, 2016
Questionnaire, Memos, Memos, and MORE Memos
So it is (was) the month of August:
I met the standards of AFOQT application AND gained my squadron commanders endorsement/blessing to apply for 16OT03 with an application cut-off of 15 Jan 16. Sweet; I have a lot of time! Honestly, this was very problematic way of thinking. I pretty much coasted the month of August by working, training for my half marathon, and completing an arsenal of tv shows on Netflix. It was actually quite impressive!
Thankfully my wife asked how my application was coming along...It's going GREAT honey!
Questionnaire 1:
So I dust the cob webs off my binder that I mentioned earlier and started getting work done. I first went through the BOT guide and determined items that are under my control. Honestly, very little is under my control. I did, however, decide to start with the easy stuff first. One of these easy things were questionnaire 1, questionnaire 2, and the entourage of memos.
Questionnaire 1 is a list of yes/no questions that you must answer. These items are non-waiverable.
Applicant Information: I typed everything here in the order it was asked. I used dashes (-) here in between my digits and it didn't cause any issues.
Am I eligible to consider applying for Basic Officer Training?
These questions were self explanatory and are easy yes or no questions. I digitally checked each answer minus the Rated questions #8. I found I was eligible to apply so I digitally signed the form, printed it, and tucked it away in my binder.
Questionnaire 2 is a list of yes/no questions, but a little more detailed in regard to enlistment, TOS, TIS, and financial responsibility. There are a total of 25 questions to answer. I answered all except #19 and 20 because they were Rated questions. ***Almost forgot, these questions determine if a waiver is required***It also comes with a few pages explaining each question in detail. I found I did not need a waiver so I was going to digitally sign it but...it also required a signature from my unit commander. I decided to TYPE both my signature block and my commanders in its appropriate block. I then insert this in the "Needs commanders signature" portion of my binder.
Memos: There were quite a few memos that needed to be drafted up and routed to the commander. Here is some of the hiccups I received about the memos: Follow the templates shown in attachment 5 of the BOT Guide. These memos does not look like your conventional type of memos so some of your leaders in your chain of command may want to waste their red ink on it. Thankfully, I had an agreement with my commander to route these things to directly to her secretary!
The first memo I drafted was the memo requesting an AF FM 422. Please be careful as there are different variations of this memo. Read the attachments carefully and ensure it pertains to your specific board (Rated, Non-rated, technical, Air Liaison, Badass CRO and STO). I typed up the memo exactly as shown with my squadron commanders signature block. I then threw it in the "signature" portion of my binder. ***Please know that all memos went here prior to submitting to my commander***
The next memo completed were the Qualify Force Review Request Form and the Quality Force Review Letter. I completed these the same way I did the request of the AF FM 422. I inserted a sticker on the Request form to remind me to e-mail it to the e-mail listed on the BOT Guide (attachment 5) after my commander signed it. Sorry for some reason I do not feel comfortable listing the e-mail on here.
Attachment 5 also gives instruction for AFRS IMT Form 1413. This didn't apply to me because I already completed my bachelors degree. The general rule is that you need to be within 12 months of completing your degree prior to applying. PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO APPLY IF YOU'RE NOT DONE WITH YOUR DEGREE. They have this form for a reason so USE IT! Seriously though, many AD selects wait a while to go to OTS so it really isn't an issue if you still have college to complete.
The next memo I want to talk about is the AAC 05 request. Again, follow the template with your commanders signature block. The AAC 05 is an assignment restriction code that prevents AFPC from giving you an assignment due to your application to a commissioning program. Here is the catch...you cannot route this to the MPS until you're within 30 days prior to submitting your application. I pretty much typed up the memo and stored it in another sub folder of my binder to let it "sit" until I was able to route it.
The AAC 05 is a touchy subject. I know of applicants that disregarded the 30 day rule and submitted it anyway. This shows me that they either didn't know or they were trying to play the system. It also showed that the commander was in the blind on the application policy. Anyway, I decided to stick to the rules and follow the instruction to show I have attention to detail (corny).
The final part of attachment 5 states to print out your Record Review Update and your Career Data Brief one month prior to submission. The reason I think they state this is due to the AAC 05. This code will display on both of these forms so ensure it is there prior to submitting. AFRS will take your application as incomplete and will not submit your application to the board if it is not on there!
Signing of the memos:
So I routed all memos and questionnaires to the secretary for commander signature. This was probably around early September. I received a phone call from the secretary saying I needed to make some corrections to my memos. I was actually quite irritated. I am an ALS instructor I know how to write memos and do spacing and stuff! Ha ha!! Anyway, she used a bunch of red ink outlining me to shift this and that and blah blah blah. I thanked her for her feedback and told her that I would not do those things because I followed the template in the BOT Guide. She asked to see the BOT Guide...to make a long story short I had to resubmit the forms due to her red ink fiesta and I got my memos back signed that afternoon.
I then e-mailed the request memo to the appropriate e-mail listed in attachment 5 of the BOT Guide. These wonderful people down in San Antonio sent the request and verification letter back to my commander about a week later and Cc'd me on it! I recommend everyone to request them (Commander) to Cc you on their response...commanders sometimes lose things in their maxed out inbox! Anyway, I filed all my signed memos and the verification letter in my binder under its appropriate tab.
I then took about a week off to tackle the obstacles of getting a letter of recommendation. I will cover this in my next post. I hope this is all making sense (clear as mud?!?) for you all. This is all an effort to help you!
I also noticed I had 36 views today! Leave me a comment or ask me questions if thats you! Take care and GO Air Force!
I met the standards of AFOQT application AND gained my squadron commanders endorsement/blessing to apply for 16OT03 with an application cut-off of 15 Jan 16. Sweet; I have a lot of time! Honestly, this was very problematic way of thinking. I pretty much coasted the month of August by working, training for my half marathon, and completing an arsenal of tv shows on Netflix. It was actually quite impressive!
Thankfully my wife asked how my application was coming along...It's going GREAT honey!
Questionnaire 1:
So I dust the cob webs off my binder that I mentioned earlier and started getting work done. I first went through the BOT guide and determined items that are under my control. Honestly, very little is under my control. I did, however, decide to start with the easy stuff first. One of these easy things were questionnaire 1, questionnaire 2, and the entourage of memos.
Questionnaire 1 is a list of yes/no questions that you must answer. These items are non-waiverable.
Applicant Information: I typed everything here in the order it was asked. I used dashes (-) here in between my digits and it didn't cause any issues.
Am I eligible to consider applying for Basic Officer Training?
These questions were self explanatory and are easy yes or no questions. I digitally checked each answer minus the Rated questions #8. I found I was eligible to apply so I digitally signed the form, printed it, and tucked it away in my binder.
Questionnaire 2 is a list of yes/no questions, but a little more detailed in regard to enlistment, TOS, TIS, and financial responsibility. There are a total of 25 questions to answer. I answered all except #19 and 20 because they were Rated questions. ***Almost forgot, these questions determine if a waiver is required***It also comes with a few pages explaining each question in detail. I found I did not need a waiver so I was going to digitally sign it but...it also required a signature from my unit commander. I decided to TYPE both my signature block and my commanders in its appropriate block. I then insert this in the "Needs commanders signature" portion of my binder.
Memos: There were quite a few memos that needed to be drafted up and routed to the commander. Here is some of the hiccups I received about the memos: Follow the templates shown in attachment 5 of the BOT Guide. These memos does not look like your conventional type of memos so some of your leaders in your chain of command may want to waste their red ink on it. Thankfully, I had an agreement with my commander to route these things to directly to her secretary!
The first memo I drafted was the memo requesting an AF FM 422. Please be careful as there are different variations of this memo. Read the attachments carefully and ensure it pertains to your specific board (Rated, Non-rated, technical, Air Liaison, Badass CRO and STO). I typed up the memo exactly as shown with my squadron commanders signature block. I then threw it in the "signature" portion of my binder. ***Please know that all memos went here prior to submitting to my commander***
The next memo completed were the Qualify Force Review Request Form and the Quality Force Review Letter. I completed these the same way I did the request of the AF FM 422. I inserted a sticker on the Request form to remind me to e-mail it to the e-mail listed on the BOT Guide (attachment 5) after my commander signed it. Sorry for some reason I do not feel comfortable listing the e-mail on here.
Attachment 5 also gives instruction for AFRS IMT Form 1413. This didn't apply to me because I already completed my bachelors degree. The general rule is that you need to be within 12 months of completing your degree prior to applying. PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO APPLY IF YOU'RE NOT DONE WITH YOUR DEGREE. They have this form for a reason so USE IT! Seriously though, many AD selects wait a while to go to OTS so it really isn't an issue if you still have college to complete.
The next memo I want to talk about is the AAC 05 request. Again, follow the template with your commanders signature block. The AAC 05 is an assignment restriction code that prevents AFPC from giving you an assignment due to your application to a commissioning program. Here is the catch...you cannot route this to the MPS until you're within 30 days prior to submitting your application. I pretty much typed up the memo and stored it in another sub folder of my binder to let it "sit" until I was able to route it.
The AAC 05 is a touchy subject. I know of applicants that disregarded the 30 day rule and submitted it anyway. This shows me that they either didn't know or they were trying to play the system. It also showed that the commander was in the blind on the application policy. Anyway, I decided to stick to the rules and follow the instruction to show I have attention to detail (corny).
The final part of attachment 5 states to print out your Record Review Update and your Career Data Brief one month prior to submission. The reason I think they state this is due to the AAC 05. This code will display on both of these forms so ensure it is there prior to submitting. AFRS will take your application as incomplete and will not submit your application to the board if it is not on there!
Signing of the memos:
So I routed all memos and questionnaires to the secretary for commander signature. This was probably around early September. I received a phone call from the secretary saying I needed to make some corrections to my memos. I was actually quite irritated. I am an ALS instructor I know how to write memos and do spacing and stuff! Ha ha!! Anyway, she used a bunch of red ink outlining me to shift this and that and blah blah blah. I thanked her for her feedback and told her that I would not do those things because I followed the template in the BOT Guide. She asked to see the BOT Guide...to make a long story short I had to resubmit the forms due to her red ink fiesta and I got my memos back signed that afternoon.
I then e-mailed the request memo to the appropriate e-mail listed in attachment 5 of the BOT Guide. These wonderful people down in San Antonio sent the request and verification letter back to my commander about a week later and Cc'd me on it! I recommend everyone to request them (Commander) to Cc you on their response...commanders sometimes lose things in their maxed out inbox! Anyway, I filed all my signed memos and the verification letter in my binder under its appropriate tab.
I then took about a week off to tackle the obstacles of getting a letter of recommendation. I will cover this in my next post. I hope this is all making sense (clear as mud?!?) for you all. This is all an effort to help you!
I also noticed I had 36 views today! Leave me a comment or ask me questions if thats you! Take care and GO Air Force!
Friday, May 6, 2016
The binder/commander recomendation
The Binder:
The BOT Guide has tons of information and it is pretty much a step-by-step guide for the AD application. I took the advice from http://journeytoairforceots.blogspot.com and made my own binder. I bought my self a new 1" three ring binder, tabs, and a lot of sheet protectors to set it up.
I opened the BOT Guide and clicked on the little paperclip looking thing to open all the attachments and printed away. I broke it down into sections and tabbed between each section with empty document protectors prior to each tab. Everyone likes to organize their stuff in their own way and I simply chose to separate the guide by its attachments. For example tab one was questionnaire 1, tab 2 was questionnaire 2 etc...If you do this ensure you understand how it is organize because things can get a little chaotic. The empty document protectors were there for the FINAL PRODUCT of the item I needed. For example, questionnare 1 was inserted only after I digitally signed it.
Table of Contents:
The BOT Guide has its own table of contents, but I made one specifically to how I organized my binder. I also have a dopamine addiction so I made myself a "check box" or a to do list. I simply checked the box when a task was complete. Both were located in the front of my binder.
I printed the Privacy Act Cover and slid it into the front slot of the binder. I also print a copy of the latest BOT schedule and inserted into the back side of the binder. I did this to protect my information and just because...
I set up this binder and read the BOT Guide tons of times while awaiting my AFOQT results. Please note that I did not do anything else until I was certain I met the basic AFOQT standards. I found that I met the standards and continued my application.
Commander Recommendation:
Your commander will have a huge part in your application. You will need their full support as they also have quite a lot to do! I went to my CSS and scheduled the appointment with my commander. Unfortunately, she was on leave and I could not see her until she got back. The total wait time to meet with her was 8 days.
The wait actually worked out because this gave me the opportunity to do my job and ponder how the meeting might go. I started thinking about my future role as an officer and "what" I would ask future AD applicants. Here is what I came up with:
Why do you want to commission?
Why should I approve/endorse your application?
Do you feel you're worthy/able to put together an outstanding application?
Would you put your stripes on the line for an applicant like "me"
The last question is geared toward a commanders reputation. I heard of commanders pencil whipping signatures on applications...This caused a bad reputation on their part due to their endorsement of a "poor" applicant.
I believe that you need to be ready for these types of questions. A commander is literally stating that you would make an outstanding officer and/or future commander one day. Be ready for commanders to drill you with questions during this request for their support.
My commander actually asked me questions that pretty much mirrored #1 and #3. I felt that I nailed it!
She ended the meeting asking if I had any questions. I simply told her that this application is "MINE" and NOT the chiefs, first sergeants, or the operations officers. Therefore, I requested that I had straight access to her with documents needing her signature. The reason I did this is because the formal method of routing takes too long! I also did not want everyones hand in the cookie jar making all these changes. Don't get me wrong, I do not mind grammatical fixes (You probably noticed my grammar ain't that great). However, I did not want any of the to change the spirit/character/attitude of my application. Plus they ask way too many questions that slow down the application process.
She ultimately compromised and said I need to have her secretary review the items requiring her signature. WIN!
***I highly recommend that you schedule this meeting with your commander, DO NOT drop a application on their desk without speaking to them first***
The BOT Guide has tons of information and it is pretty much a step-by-step guide for the AD application. I took the advice from http://journeytoairforceots.blogspot.com and made my own binder. I bought my self a new 1" three ring binder, tabs, and a lot of sheet protectors to set it up.
I opened the BOT Guide and clicked on the little paperclip looking thing to open all the attachments and printed away. I broke it down into sections and tabbed between each section with empty document protectors prior to each tab. Everyone likes to organize their stuff in their own way and I simply chose to separate the guide by its attachments. For example tab one was questionnaire 1, tab 2 was questionnaire 2 etc...If you do this ensure you understand how it is organize because things can get a little chaotic. The empty document protectors were there for the FINAL PRODUCT of the item I needed. For example, questionnare 1 was inserted only after I digitally signed it.
Table of Contents:
The BOT Guide has its own table of contents, but I made one specifically to how I organized my binder. I also have a dopamine addiction so I made myself a "check box" or a to do list. I simply checked the box when a task was complete. Both were located in the front of my binder.
I printed the Privacy Act Cover and slid it into the front slot of the binder. I also print a copy of the latest BOT schedule and inserted into the back side of the binder. I did this to protect my information and just because...
I set up this binder and read the BOT Guide tons of times while awaiting my AFOQT results. Please note that I did not do anything else until I was certain I met the basic AFOQT standards. I found that I met the standards and continued my application.
Commander Recommendation:
Your commander will have a huge part in your application. You will need their full support as they also have quite a lot to do! I went to my CSS and scheduled the appointment with my commander. Unfortunately, she was on leave and I could not see her until she got back. The total wait time to meet with her was 8 days.
The wait actually worked out because this gave me the opportunity to do my job and ponder how the meeting might go. I started thinking about my future role as an officer and "what" I would ask future AD applicants. Here is what I came up with:
Why do you want to commission?
Why should I approve/endorse your application?
Do you feel you're worthy/able to put together an outstanding application?
Would you put your stripes on the line for an applicant like "me"
The last question is geared toward a commanders reputation. I heard of commanders pencil whipping signatures on applications...This caused a bad reputation on their part due to their endorsement of a "poor" applicant.
I believe that you need to be ready for these types of questions. A commander is literally stating that you would make an outstanding officer and/or future commander one day. Be ready for commanders to drill you with questions during this request for their support.
My commander actually asked me questions that pretty much mirrored #1 and #3. I felt that I nailed it!
She ended the meeting asking if I had any questions. I simply told her that this application is "MINE" and NOT the chiefs, first sergeants, or the operations officers. Therefore, I requested that I had straight access to her with documents needing her signature. The reason I did this is because the formal method of routing takes too long! I also did not want everyones hand in the cookie jar making all these changes. Don't get me wrong, I do not mind grammatical fixes (You probably noticed my grammar ain't that great). However, I did not want any of the to change the spirit/character/attitude of my application. Plus they ask way too many questions that slow down the application process.
She ultimately compromised and said I need to have her secretary review the items requiring her signature. WIN!
***I highly recommend that you schedule this meeting with your commander, DO NOT drop a application on their desk without speaking to them first***
Initiating My OTS Application
I served in the AF for 12 years! Why would I want to pursue a commission?!?
The actual idea of applying for OTS developed in July of 2015. This is exactly when the Air Force decided announce the Master Sergeant promotes with the new two phase promotion program (Phase 1 WAPS and Phase 2 Board). This was my second time testing in the 8T career field and I was not on the promotion list. My total score was less than two points below the cut-off and my board score was 382.5.
I was disappointed by not making promotion; however, I was mostly worried about explaining this to my wife! My wife has very high standards, she expects me to be the best. Don't get me wrong though she is the driving force behind my success and I love that she holds me accountable.
You should have seen her face when I told her I didn't make it. She didn't seem upset, but I could tell she was very disappointed. One of the worst feelings, in my opinion, is disappointing someone that relies on me. She verbally reflected all those hours I studied and all those days of extracurriculurs I participated in. When she was done whining (haha) she said "Well it looks like you will be applying for a commission, you owe me to apply."
The reason why she says I owe her is because I have been avoiding this application process for a few years. I actually once started a package in 2012, but the Air Force canceled the boards for all applicants without a STEM degree. I then went on stating how awesome I was at being a Non-Commissioned Officer and how I did not want to apply for OTS. I also fell in love with the idea of making Chief Master Sergeant!
As I reflect while typing this I realized that not making master was a huge disappointment, but also a blessing in disguise. I would not be in my current position had I made it that year. It's amazing how some doors remain closed for a specific reason.
I called the education office the next day to inquire about the next AFOQT date. It was set for August 31st which gave me a little over a month to prepare. Thats enough time right?......
***Please understand that this is how my application was "initiated" not why I want to become a commissioned officer. I will explain that later***
The actual idea of applying for OTS developed in July of 2015. This is exactly when the Air Force decided announce the Master Sergeant promotes with the new two phase promotion program (Phase 1 WAPS and Phase 2 Board). This was my second time testing in the 8T career field and I was not on the promotion list. My total score was less than two points below the cut-off and my board score was 382.5.
I was disappointed by not making promotion; however, I was mostly worried about explaining this to my wife! My wife has very high standards, she expects me to be the best. Don't get me wrong though she is the driving force behind my success and I love that she holds me accountable.
You should have seen her face when I told her I didn't make it. She didn't seem upset, but I could tell she was very disappointed. One of the worst feelings, in my opinion, is disappointing someone that relies on me. She verbally reflected all those hours I studied and all those days of extracurriculurs I participated in. When she was done whining (haha) she said "Well it looks like you will be applying for a commission, you owe me to apply."
The reason why she says I owe her is because I have been avoiding this application process for a few years. I actually once started a package in 2012, but the Air Force canceled the boards for all applicants without a STEM degree. I then went on stating how awesome I was at being a Non-Commissioned Officer and how I did not want to apply for OTS. I also fell in love with the idea of making Chief Master Sergeant!
As I reflect while typing this I realized that not making master was a huge disappointment, but also a blessing in disguise. I would not be in my current position had I made it that year. It's amazing how some doors remain closed for a specific reason.
I called the education office the next day to inquire about the next AFOQT date. It was set for August 31st which gave me a little over a month to prepare. Thats enough time right?......
***Please understand that this is how my application was "initiated" not why I want to become a commissioned officer. I will explain that later***
AFOQT
The AFOQT is a BEAST! The test started at 0800 and I don't think I left until 1230-1300 that day. All I remember is that I was "smoked" when I got home and took a nap.
If I could go back:
I would spend a couple of months studying for this test. I would like to remind you that this was July and I was targeting the 16OT03 board in January! I should have taken the test in October, not August ha ha!
Studying:
Do not follow my past actions, but follow my advice.
STUDY STUDY STUDY
I highly recommend that you check out books from the local library. I checked out books relating to the GRE, AZVAB, and other books recommended by the librarian. These books were honestly paper weights and I did not study them as much as I should have. I reviewed the books later and I know some of the information practically mirrored the test.
I did, however, spend a lot of time on the line (haha name that movie) taking practice test that resulted from Google search AFOQT. The big ones I remember are the Petersons and AFOQTguide.com. These test show you a good example of what you will endure. I also like how they had the specific allotted time per sub test. I recommend that you just stick to the FREE test. I felt that the test I purchased were much easier than the free ones. It was weird and I felt ripped off!
The killer for the AFOQT is TIME. I recommend that you time yourself on the practice test mentioned above. I don't feel that I truly rehearsed the stress of time and this upsets me because that is something I could control. In my opinion the questions were not difficult; however, time snuck up on me and I ended up "christmas treeing" during the last 30 seconds of each sub test. Another piece of advise is to practice bubbling in an answer sheet. I realize now that I was one practicing with circling answer choices...bubbling in on answer sheets take a little more time and made a huge difference in the real test.
Our administrator did not allow us to wear watches...the only official time was his stop watch and the clock in the room. That sucked!!!
My Opinion:
I believe the AFOQT is mostly a deterrent for non-rated non-technical applicants. You would not believe how many people decide NOT to put a package together because they have to take a test. I also do not see how being smart on Pilot, Nav, or Math makes you a better officer than some other non-rated non-tech applicant/officer.
So whats my point? Take the AFOQT, meet the standards, and PRESS ON to your application!
Don't ever decide not to apply because you feel your scores are too low. I can think of six NCOs that fell in this category. Again, take the AFOQT, meet the standard, and apply!
Scores:
You need to understand that your scores are not the percentage you earned on the test. Its a percentile compared to a certain controlled group. To best explain this I will tell you my scores, but without telling you my scores:
Lets imagine the controlled group contained 10 people including me. The number in each category would indicate how many I "beat" in that category.
Pilot: 3.6
Nav: 3.5
AA: 2.3
V: 3.6
Q: 1.8
My AFOQT took score 2.5 weeks
Like I said, TAKE THE TEST, MEET THE STANDARD, AND APPLY :)
Please view the BOT GUIDE for specifics on AFOQT standards and Q&A as it is filled with great info!
If I could go back:
I would spend a couple of months studying for this test. I would like to remind you that this was July and I was targeting the 16OT03 board in January! I should have taken the test in October, not August ha ha!
Studying:
Do not follow my past actions, but follow my advice.
STUDY STUDY STUDY
I highly recommend that you check out books from the local library. I checked out books relating to the GRE, AZVAB, and other books recommended by the librarian. These books were honestly paper weights and I did not study them as much as I should have. I reviewed the books later and I know some of the information practically mirrored the test.
I did, however, spend a lot of time on the line (haha name that movie) taking practice test that resulted from Google search AFOQT. The big ones I remember are the Petersons and AFOQTguide.com. These test show you a good example of what you will endure. I also like how they had the specific allotted time per sub test. I recommend that you just stick to the FREE test. I felt that the test I purchased were much easier than the free ones. It was weird and I felt ripped off!
The killer for the AFOQT is TIME. I recommend that you time yourself on the practice test mentioned above. I don't feel that I truly rehearsed the stress of time and this upsets me because that is something I could control. In my opinion the questions were not difficult; however, time snuck up on me and I ended up "christmas treeing" during the last 30 seconds of each sub test. Another piece of advise is to practice bubbling in an answer sheet. I realize now that I was one practicing with circling answer choices...bubbling in on answer sheets take a little more time and made a huge difference in the real test.
Our administrator did not allow us to wear watches...the only official time was his stop watch and the clock in the room. That sucked!!!
My Opinion:
I believe the AFOQT is mostly a deterrent for non-rated non-technical applicants. You would not believe how many people decide NOT to put a package together because they have to take a test. I also do not see how being smart on Pilot, Nav, or Math makes you a better officer than some other non-rated non-tech applicant/officer.
So whats my point? Take the AFOQT, meet the standards, and PRESS ON to your application!
Don't ever decide not to apply because you feel your scores are too low. I can think of six NCOs that fell in this category. Again, take the AFOQT, meet the standard, and apply!
Scores:
You need to understand that your scores are not the percentage you earned on the test. Its a percentile compared to a certain controlled group. To best explain this I will tell you my scores, but without telling you my scores:
Lets imagine the controlled group contained 10 people including me. The number in each category would indicate how many I "beat" in that category.
Pilot: 3.6
Nav: 3.5
AA: 2.3
V: 3.6
Q: 1.8
My AFOQT took score 2.5 weeks
Like I said, TAKE THE TEST, MEET THE STANDARD, AND APPLY :)
Please view the BOT GUIDE for specifics on AFOQT standards and Q&A as it is filled with great info!
Monday, May 2, 2016
Introduction
Introduction:
Hello blog readers! My name is Keanu and I felt motivated to create a blog about my ongoing transition from Air Force enlisted to AF commissioned officer. I have no idea what I am doing, but I will definitely learn as I go. This is, in my opinion the best way to learn something new.
Goal:
My goal is to aid any individual eager to earn a commission to the United States Air Force. I was definitely inspired and assisted by http://journeytoairforceots.blogspot.com and I would like to do the same for other people. Please visit his blog as he also willing to assist you in your application.
Disclaimer:
This is my experience to applying for a commission through the United States Air Force as an active duty service member. Your experience may be a little different due to the ongoing changes with Air Force policy and requirements. I am here to help; however, I will only lead you to water. Meaning I expect you to put forth some effort and find your solutions through my directions. I will not spoon feed you everything! You are an aspiring officer are you not?
Good luck to all!
*Please keep in mind that my posts aren't in real time. I have already been through the application process and was selected in 16OT03.*
*Please keep in mind that my posts aren't in real time. I have already been through the application process and was selected in 16OT03.*
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