Seeking Help
Hello everyone,
My name is Austin and I live in Daytona Beach, Florida and I have a strong passion for aviation. Ever since I was 10 years old I've wanted to be a pilot and would stop at nothing to make it a reality. After some hardships and determination I earned my PPL in 2022 and recently my instrument rating this year. I have accumulated almost 300 hours of flight time. However, my dream is to fly in the air force but due to my weight and grades I thought i couldn't do it. Last year i reached out to a reserve recruiter and was denied due to my weight (I was 250 pounds then). Now i weigh 208 pounds and only a few months from graduating college with a 3.3 GPA. What I really want to know is if I have a chance at a guard unit at 29 years old and if my flight experience will help in the selection process? Also, what is a great study tool for the AFOQT? Thanks everyone in advance!
Hey, brother! I love your determination; you will get it! I’m 23 and rushing units right now as well. Just keep going, and don’t give up until you make it. You’re doing all the right things! Congratulations on graduating from college, man that’s big!! Just keep your head down and keep working! The Wingman app is great for the AFOQT! I promise that door is going to open!!
austin-borgia, don't waste any more time worrying about your chances! As mehtab-sandhu said, you've already proven you're willing to work hard to meet requirements, you have incredible flying experience, you're in the age window...PRESS!
AFOQT Wingman is a great resource (https://bogidope.com/afoqt-wingman/). It's included in a Pro membership and you'll have access to all the previously recorded tutoring sessions by Gunboss.
You're only a few steps away from being able to apply. Focus on maximizing your test scores (AFOQT / PCSM) and you'll be ready to send out those application packets. Lean on the BogiDope community, let us know if you have any specific questions, and we'll be here every step of the way!
Smax
Austin,
You have a good story! I would much rather hire someone who is willing to set goals and over come obstacles to make their dreams a reality!
Keep up the good work!
Hey Austin, I too started applying for Guard/Reserve units around your age with a lot less flight time and am currently in KC-46 PIQ. Best advice I can give you is what Bogidope gave me years ago as I applied: you need to apply every where. No it’s not too late but yes your age isn’t helping you application wise. 300 hours is awesome, if you have your commerical/CFI that will help too. Feel free to DM me if you had more questions.
PS Props for losing the weight. Years ago I too had to cut down on my chonkiness so I know the struggle is real haha
