Off The Street Application Timing

[drumpet]

Hey there,

I am in college right now, and will be graduating a year from now in a non-ATC related (engineering) field. I qualify to apply using the off-the-street method based on a combination of education and work experience, so that's not a problem.

There is the job posting now on the FAA website. I'm just wondering whether it is a good idea to begin the process now, since I will still be going to school for another year. If so, how would that work?

Thanks!

[Edward]

It depends. Do you want to be an ATCS or do you want to be an engineer? If you are unsure, I would apply to the posting and then make the decision when you need to. This process could take awhile...maybe even until after you graduate. Doesn't hurt to have options.

[drumpet]

I want to go the ATCS route, but still graduate from college.

I don't want my application to the FAA to get to the point where I need to reject offers because I haven't graduated yet, and mess up my chances. But I'd certainly like to be ready to go once I graduate.

If that makes sense...

[JKoffler44]

I say go for it. I am graduating with my Associate degree and I applied to a school for my bachelors for next sememster. It doesn't hurt to have a back-up plan. Look how long it has taken for those who applied in '07. Also, on the application's job description it mentions that they will take into account any special circumstances when it comes to selecting a class date. It's worth a shot...

[Edward]

Well, I am in the same situation. But, I decided to continue school AND go through with the application process and see what happens. I find it difficult to make a full commitment to either one. The OTS opportunity is rare and could be the chance of a lifetime, but I don't want to just dismiss my degree with the hopes of getting hired by the FAA...who knows if I will ever get an offer.
So, I will just keep checking my application status daily in hopes that I Will have a decision to make some day.

[dofficalatc]

I am more or less in the same boat. I applied for the OTS opening in February and I was in the process of finishing my last semester of college. It was tough to fill out the application section on education because when they ask for graduation date I didn't know what to put, my last completed year of college or my anticipated graduation date. I ended up putting the anticipated graduation date. The nice thing is that I haven't received anything regarding that application yet and I graduate next weekend. So I won't have to turn anything down. But I guess it all depends on what you want to do: get your degree or get a job and start making money.