Am I in a minority??!!???

[lodgi]

You really have dampended my spirits now! What about if I were to do my A Levels, then join as a marine. Then if I was good enough could I apply for officer training?

[Maverick00]

Fair enough lodgi it can be done without a degree but it just makes life easier if you have one, plus its a f*****g awesome three years of making new friends, learning how to look after yourself, gaining real independence and getting a very useful qualification at the end of it. Plus if youre clever youll get RM to pay the way for you as well...unlike me...

[lodgi]

Yeah but i'm only 16 and im already absolutely sick of work. I'm gonna struggle through my A levels. If I went to university I would fuc.k it up and would be pissed up all the time I know it. So can you become an officer after entry as a marine if you've got the basic qualifications (A levels and GCSE's) ??

[Maverick00]

I think trying to get a commision from the ranks is pretty tough from what ive heard, doesnt happen often and even then its after many years of service. Have a search on the old posts im sure theres info on this somewhere.

[dan]

I don't like your odds. I went down the A-level only path (with 2 'A's and 2 'B's) and was told in no uncertain terms that I should go and get a degree. You need to be something special, with a degree, to get selected for YO training and something absolutely blinding to get through the AIB without one. Uni life is in no way a waste, the opportunities are endless, maybe get yourself involved in the RMR to pass the time and up your chances once you leave? Your initial interview will almost certainly confirm what i've said, sorry mate. Still it's worth a shot, if only to see what they think!

A sergeant told us in a lecture that it is harder to get a place in recruit training than it is to get a place at Oxford, ie. the proportion of people applying for places to those who earn them, is higher. I can't see why they would need to bullsh*t us once we're inside, so I suppose he could be right?!

[will]

I am going for POC but will be a while yet but hope to get a university sponsorship!!
Will

[Maverick00]

I recommend potential officers to read BenP's posts about the POC and AIB, will make you realise how difficult it really is...