When I first decided I wanted to go to OCS, I followed the same steps I used when I was trying to find a college and major when I got out of high school. I bought books. Lots and lots of books. I read about OCS itself, and I read about how officers are expected to conduct themselves. I read about the ASVAB and how to find a recruiter. I watched documentaries of candidates going through OCS and TBS. One thing I neglected to learn about, though, was what officers actually do.

All I really know right now is officers are expected to be leaders both in and outside of work. So I am just now asking myself: What am I going to do when I grow up?

What on earth does an English major do in the Marine Corps? When I did a little research, I found out that officers get to choose an aegis under which they would like to work. I can choose “administration” and receive one of what seems like hundreds of jobs. I must choose 3 overarching job descriptions. I’ll get to do 1.

I am interested in a number of things. Some are specific and some are very broad. I would love to work in public affairs and make some use of journalistic background. Anything in public affairs would make me happy. Every day would be a treat if my daily duties involved any form of writing, photography, or reporting.

On the same note, communications also sounds like a great route. My educational background enforced the need to get a message out there accurately and efficiently. Assisting or doing that duty would be very fulfilling.

I also have other choices that don’t match my background. What about intelligence? That job could lead to unbelievable experiences, and my productive footprint could be quite large. It would be challenging, and I love a good challenge.

I would also love to help out with manpower. Or maybe law enforcement. Someone told me I’d work well as an adjutant. There are just so many wonderful opportunities a job in the Marine Corps can provide; I wish I could do every single one of them at the same time!

Realistically, though, I would be happy to just be a Marine. I would do whatever was asked of me. Being a Marine is about service. Any job in any branch of the military serves a greater cause.