I'm currently in the process of enlisting in the USCG reserves. I planned on attending a local college but I was recently looking at transfering after a semester to one of the Maritime Academies (SUNY and Mass primarily) I was wondering if its possible to attend these schools and still participate in the reserves. I really would like to be part of the coast guard, not only for the tuition assistance but also for the experience and I the opportunities it will give me.

Can I do both?
if not, are there other reserve opportunities in the CG if I attend the maritime academy... for afterwards?

Try the California Maritime Academy. I do know they have some type of thing with the Coast Guard Reserve. I don't know the details, sorry. They do send cadets to Cape May for recruit training during the summer.

Hey there,

I just recently transferred to the Texas Maritine Academy and have my application ready to go to enlist in the reserves next summer. You can do both, (at least I know you can at the TMA) you just have to plan things well in advance. Depending on which program you participate in, Drill and Ceremonies or License option, there are programs in which you can recieve your commission as an officer once you graduate through the Maritime Academy Graduate program.

I personally am doing the Marine sciences deck license option. I'll be getting my degree in Marine Sciences, as well as getting my Merchant Marine deck license. Over the next three summers I'll be going on two month summer cruises on the school's ship. My recruiter spoke with the reserve unit I'll be going to and explained my school situation. I'll have to make up the weekends I'll be missing while on the cruise, but they said it shouldn't be a problem. Be forewarned though, I have 60 college credits, and almost none of them transferred because the curriculum is so specific.

Anyway, good luck with your decision. I'm sure whichever school you choose will be a good choice (but you should really consider Texas :p ). If you have any questions fell free to PM me.

-Holly