Every once in a while, military recruits can be seen challenging ambitious students in various physical activities here at Aliso Niguel.
Every couple of months, recruiters from the Air Force, Army, Marines and Navy can be found during lunch in the Junior area and in front of the school. They pose challenges such as pushups, pull ups and deadlifts, often offering a prize to anyone able to accomplish such feats. Those prizes include water bottles, bags, bracelets and pencils.
Although everyone is allowed to participate, it is seen that mostly boys take part either to prove their skills or show off to their friends.
On Wednesday, Feb. 28, two Navy officers stood in the Junior quad with a table of information and prizes such as water bottles and pencils for students. They offered prizes to students who could complete a number of pushups.
One officer there was Tara L. Montgomery, and she and her partner were at ANHS to spread Navy awareness for any students that are interested. They are a great source of information to get started on your application.
The application process is very simple: all you need to do is sign up and fill out a short questionnaire for the recruits to see where you fit in. They will also set you up with an appointment to speak one-on-one with a recruiter and tailor the interview to their specifications to find out how the Navy can help reach their goals.
Although the application process may be easy, not all applicants will be accepted. There are a number of specific details needed for you to be accepted into the Navy such as age, medical examination, and an aptitude test.
They also have to take multiple preliminary practice tests to qualify. Every recruit also needs to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to reveal their areas of strength in science, math, and language.
Once they are deemed to be eligible, the recruits are sent down to San Diego to see a doctor to ensure there are no health issues. They also take their official ASVAB and once they pass they are now able to pick their occupation.
Another bonus to joining the Navy is the benefits that come along with it. There are multiple bills that help recruits stay on their feet during their careers.
One bill that’s very beneficial to college students is the Forever 9/11 bill. It grants housing allowance, up to 100 percent of college tuition for 36 months and provides up to $1000 per year for books and school supplies.
Though the Navy has its benefits, it is not an easy job. There is a set amount of years you need to serve until you are allowed to retire.
The minimum number of years you can enlist for is four years and it only scales up from there. Depending on your occupation, it can range from four years and up, even 10 years for their officer’s pilot program.
With the numerous benefits offered by the Navy, it is an attractive path for many students hoping for support throughout and after their careers.
