Officer or crypto in the Navy?

Question

I'm planning on joining the Navy, and I already have my college degree. This means I can go in as an officer, which I looked into. However, I also have a lot of interest in doing the world languages, or cryptologic technician (?), program, which is only for enlisted personnel. I understand both look good in the civilian world. Anyone have any advice or recommendations? Thanks.

Answer 1

while it is true that Linguists(CTI) is an enlisted field only, their bosses are IWOs. While they won't utilize a foreign language on a daily basis, they will work with CTIs regularly.

CTIs are NOT translators per se. you won't find too many of them walking around translating for people int he field. In fact, a CTI will spend much of their first term(if not all) in one of three locations: Kunia, Ft Gordon or Ft Meade,locked in a dark room with headphones on all day transcribing signals.

I am partial to IWO, but that's most likely due to the fact that my husband is one....more opportunity for diversity in assignments, for one, Leadership, for another, and the better pay ain't bad either.

Answer 2

Let me give you a bit of experienced advise. They do not need crypto techs on the outside. Be an officer.
USAF Veteran

Answer 3

Officer,

I did crypto in my country and finshed as a Captain, be an officer, more use for it in Civvy street than crypto, unless you go CIA when you get out.

Answer 4

Go enlisted, you will have more fun.