dho99

I'm in the 181, if you have some general questions send me a pm.

Just to add my two cents since my situation may be a little different (went from active to guard). If you submitted everything early I would def call or email 3-4 days prior to deadline to make sure everything was received and in good order. If you submitted at deadline then give it 4 days or so and then do a follow up. Even if you know everything is good at least it shows you are up on it and very interested. As the interview date nears and you haven't heard anything I would call about 5 business days out if you are within driving distance. If you live far from the unit then I would do it 2 weeks out. If they are dragging their feet then just politely remind them that you have to make travel arrangements. Guard/Reserve units are usually very good about not messing around with folks who have to travel. Piece of advice: If you are there during a drill and can manage to stay both days then do it. At my unit you would be surprised how many guys show up an hour prior to interview, just sit around not talking to anyone (except for the pilot who is showing them around) and then bounce right after interview is over. Now, I am not saying that it will automatically disqualify you (and it doesn’t), however if you stay around at least for the first day and ask to come in the second day it really goes the extra mile to show your commitment. Yep, its kinda awkward, like being the girl at the dance with no date but mix it up with the guys/gals. All crew positions too (if its a heavy SQ) and just be yourself, the unit members are just as interested in learning about you as you are about the mission/unit. Now if you have to travel on Sunday to get to work on Monday its not a ding at all if you cant make the second day, just let it be known so that they understand your situation. Once again this is just the way it is at my unit so it may not be universal so just ask if its cool to hang out after the interview/the second day. Don’t be surprised if you get an invitation to go out drinking the first night with the folks hitting the town...You may only find out if you hang out the first day towards the end of drill while people are making plans....Wink Wink