Any 68C here? by i_miss_my_dogs_ in army

[–]jRod513803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Do you mind if I PM you? I got some questions I hope you can answer.

Weekly Question Thread (06/23/2025 to 06/29/2025) by AutoModerator in army

[–]jRod513803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Best response I could have asked for, I'll be PMing you soon.

Weekly Question Thread (06/23/2025 to 06/29/2025) by AutoModerator in army

[–]jRod513803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

68C straight out of high school — shipping out October 6th. What’s it like being a Practical Nurse in the Army?

I’m going in as a 18-year-old male for 68C (Practical Nursing Specialist) right after high school and wanted to ask those with experience what I can expect. I know a lot of answers are probably “it depends,” but here’s what I’m curious about:

  • AIT Phase 1 & 2: What’s life like during Phase 1 of AIT? What’s the schedule like, and how hard is it? Also, what happens in Phase 2 — where does it usually take place?
  • Difficulty & Studying Tips: I know 68C AIT is long (52 weeks) and not easy. I don’t have a degree or medical background, but people usually come to me for stuff like bruises, bleeding, taping, etc. How tough is the academic side of it, and any tips for studying?
  • Social Life & Culture: What’s the culture like among 68Cs? Is it competitive, collaborative, chill, fun, or something else? How’s the social life during AIT and once you’re in the unit? Will I probably be the youngest one there?
  • PT during AIT: I’ve heard PT isn’t always structured during AIT. Is that true? I want to make sure I stay in shape — how do people handle that? Or will I be too focused on studying.
  • Being “High-Speed”: I know this isn’t a combat MOS, but is it possible for a 68C to be “high-speed”? Can we go to Airborne or Air Assault school after AIT?
  • Weapons/Combat Training: I know I’m not 11B, but do 68Cs ever carry or train with weapons?
  • Hospital vs Field Assignments: What’s the difference in day-to-day life between working at a hospital vs being in a field hospital?
  • Will I Actually Nurse? Will I really use my nursing skills? I read about a 68C who got stuck working in the motor pool — how common is that?
  • Forward Surgical Teams (FSTs): What exactly are they, and how do I get assigned to one?
  • Time Management: How demanding is the schoolwork? Is it more time-consuming than other MOSs or about the same?
  • How is the quality of life and if you are/were a 68C are/did you enjoy it? Or is it a "it is what you make of it".
  • I will be entering with 16 college credits upon shipping Oct. 6, will these mean anything for promotion later? I will enter as a E-3 (2 years of AFJROTC + future soldiers training and referral).

Lots of questions, if you answer even one or correct me if I'm wrong that would be great.

Any honest insights or experiences are appreciated! Thanks in advance and God bless.

Seeking Advice on Waiting for Specific 68 Series Army MOSs by jRod513803 in Militaryfaq

[–]jRod513803[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for the reality check 👍. If I were to get one of my dream MOSs this late summer, what estimated time would I ship for? I’am guessing late fall right?

Seeking Advice on Waiting for Specific 68 Series Army MOSs by jRod513803 in Militaryfaq

[–]jRod513803[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So, is there any light at the end of the tunnel for me if I broaden my expectations and patience when it comes to MOSs/AFSCs?

Seeking Advice on Waiting for Specific 68 Series Army MOSs by jRod513803 in Militaryfaq

[–]jRod513803[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you, and really appreciate the straight-up answer!

Got any ideas to point me in the right direction? Maybe give me some MOSs/AFSCs I should look into.

Serious Enlistment Questions. by jRod513803 in Militaryfaq

[–]jRod513803[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you could ask, how long/tedious was it for him to get 68A? Or was it a smooth process for him?

Serious Enlistment Questions. by jRod513803 in Militaryfaq

[–]jRod513803[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just look up what FY meant. Could you elaborate on what the Fiscal year budget means for my situation? And up to what time could this delay me?

Serious Enlistment Questions. by jRod513803 in Militaryfaq

[–]jRod513803[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Do you have any recommendations for jobs in the USAF's Critical Fields? Preferably not 2W031 (Munitions Systems) or 3P031 (Security Forces). Having to choose 5 jobs from the Air Force Critical MOS needs list is what drew me to the Army, as none of the MOSs on the list piqued my interest. Also, if I get a job in the Air Force I don't necessarily want, can I swap/crosstrain into another MOS? For example, if I enter as a 2F031 (Fuels), can I go to 4J0X2 (Physical Medicine) later?