A question for those in the Air Force.
 

First off I am a 21 year old female and I am very interested in the Air Force. I have been interested since I graduated I just felt I should wait until I thought I had my head on straight enough to make such a big commitment.

I do know to start off I need to speak with a recruiter and take the ASVAB but from all of the stories I keep hearing of people being really screwed over, by getting promises for signing up from a recruiter and then not getting anything near that, I'm not sure what to do to avoid that.

I guess im just basically asking for advice from experienced people so im not pushed into something that just needed a spot filled and that I will completely hate. I just don't want something I really want to turn into an experience I hate.

Thanks in Advance,
LuvLiMi

I'm not Air Force, but I did 6 yrs in the Army Guard. However, your question is primarily about recruiting, so I think I can assist. Many recruiters are pushy. Those types will tell you what they think you want to hear to get you to sign the contract. I suggest that you ask for materials to take home to read. No matter what they tell you, the "deal" being offered won't change in a day's time. Be sure that everything you've been promised is included in the contract before you sign. Research your potentiol MOS (job) prior to signing to get an idea if that's really want you want to do. The bottom line is to read the information and be sure that what you're promised is in the contract BEFORE you sign.

Thanks.

Im just not really sure what to do since I havent told my family yet. There are two people in my family in the army who are close to my age but I know if i were to tell them anything then my family would find out and try to change my mind. My entire family is very close and always make decision together and this is a little hard to do with out speaking to anyone for suggestions or guidance who isnt in it for something.

I was in the Army ( officer) and my DH, DrZTA72, was both in the Army (enlisted) and the Air Force (officer).

I went in as an officer with a direct commission since I was already a college grad and had work experience in my field ( ER and OR nurse). I knew exactly what was going to happen with no surprises.
Medical people usually end up with what they want.
My biggest and best piece of advice. Take everything the recruiter tells you with a grain of salt. Get EVERYTHING in writing if there is something that you especially want. Do not let yourself be pushed, prodded, encouraged, or forced into something you don't want. This is basically the only time that YOU hold all the cards. Try to talk with as many people that you can who have military experience. It can be a great life. I loved it. However, in this day and time, you must be ready to serve in a combat zone. Feel free to PM me.

AF enlisted here, and AKA's response is quite adequate for your question. Your post is vague about the promises part though, what where your friends promised? The only thing a recruiter can promise you is your bonus, AFSC and how many year enlistment you decide. Don't let them try to promise you a certain base or country to serve in, because they have no say in that. PM me if you have any questions. Good Luck, the USAF is a great corporation to work for :D

Thanks for all the advice it is really appreciated.

As far as promises it was things like jobs they both would recieve, pay, and bonuses, primarily things like that.

I see my recruiter Tuesday and I am extremely nervous.

Some really good websites:

www.usmilitary.about.com

www.militarysos.com (slanted for Significant others of Mil members, but has members who are/were AD and a lot of great info)

Those are the 2 best ones I can think of.