[Kyle]

Hi D.J,

I’m a recent ROTC grad who was selected for UPT in the reserves and will be in processing soon. Guard is a bit difficult since there is no formal board for ROTC cadets. Basically, you’ll apply off the street like any other applicant and if you get selected by a unit, request a conditional release from AFPC. Whether or not that release gets approved depends on the needs of the AF, but I’ve seen several cadets do it. So while difficult, it’s still possible.

For the reserves (which is what I’m doing and several other ROTC cadets/graduates), there is a formal board that meets in the fall of your 3rd year (or 4th if you’re on a 5 year plan). It’s basically an unsponsored board strictly for ROTC cadets which is a great deal imo. If selected, you’re basically a free agent to any unit (most of the time) and at that point, it’s up to you to find a reserve unit (not guard). If you do find a guard unit, that’s another release and it could risk your reserve slot (not entirely sure if this is true but best to my knowledge).

TLDR: Yes, you can obtain a guard/reserve slot through ROTC, but the process is much easier in the reserves than the guard.

[Kyle]

I’ll be rushing 756th next month at Andrew’s. Also wanted to check if anyone here has or is going to interview at 337th? They were supposed to send invites Oct 15th for the Nov 2-3 weekend interview, but I haven’t heard from them.

[Kyle]

Hi Kate,

I recently got picked up for the ROTC reserve board as a pilot in the fall so I can relate. It’s going to be tough finding a unit that will sponsor you 3 years out from commissioning, though it never hurts to apply/rush their unit. Most of us (if not all) got selected for this board unsponsored so after selection at the national level, that’s when we look to get sponsored.

Since you’re still far out from graduation, Here are my 3 big takeaways: Study for the AFOQT and get as high of a score you can in the pilot section and take the TBAS early in case you need to retake it down the line to get the highest PCSM you can. During one of the summers or even winter/spring breaks, train to get your PPL. Many units will not consider you if you don’t have this.

Hopefully this helps. Best of luck!

[Kyle]

Hello everyone!

My name is Kyle and I am also an Air Force ROTC cadet selected for a pilot slot in the reserves. I am 22 pursuing a B.S in mathematics and graduating next year.

I was invited to rush a KC 135 unit this weekend and am very excited. My first glimpse at the life of a reserve pilot (not exactly though haha).

I currently just have my PPL, but plan to get my instrument rating this year. On my free time, I like to fly and watch TV. Not many hobbies.

Very grateful for the BogiDope community, especially for the medical consultation. I was able to get my medical concerns addressed without stressing too much at the flight physical.

Hope to see y’all in the skies someday!

[Kyle]

I can relate! I’m a command sponsored student who just PCS’d to Laughlin this week and I start in 2 weeks. Most of the students on casual status have been there for months and are waiting for UPT/IFT/SERE dates.

The best part about being a guardsman/reservist is you know well before you arrive when you start. Unlike AD, your class can’t be pushed forward or back. Having some time is good though as it allows you to get caught up on everything!

[Kyle]

Hi @SLAP !

The weekend went well. I got an insight for life at the squadron and got to tour the KC-135. Everyone was helpful and made me feel welcome. I do plan to rush other squadrons this year before I graduate, but I may visit for one day rather than 2 since squadrons get busy on drill weekends.

Currently in touch with a couple other units to give some recognition before I apply.