What are my chances of joining the Coast Guard?

[kenway]

I am a Criminal Justice student 1 semester away from my Associates. I was in the army but was discharged due to "Asthma". Since then I have had a doctor in writing clear me of any breathing problems and labeled me fit for service. I have always wanted to be a Police Officer and I have always wanted to serve in the military and I just noticed that the Coast Guard has started a Maritime Law Enforcement rating that I am highly interested in. I have heard it is difficult to join the Coast Guard due over recruitment. My question is do you think I have a chance? or should I stick out college a little longer? Any suggestions to better my chances would be greatly appreciated

[dana]

Honestly, and do not get me wrong the military and the Coast Guard are notable avenues and careers that deserve respect, but DO NOT leave college just to join up! To be straight forward with you I am currently in DEP for the US Army active duty, and scheduled to leave on Feb. 8th for BCT and AIT in Fort Jackson, SC, and even though I am thrilled and extremely excited about joining I will say that there isn't a day that I wish I could have completed my college degree prior to joining up.
First off having your degree guarantees you a higher standing in the ranks and a higher pay if not the eligibility to attend OCS and become a commissioned officer.
Second, to answer you question about the Coast Guard, they are currently on a back log of two to three years with eligible applicants, so your chances of getting in are slim to none especially if you need or even look like you may need a waiver. As far as the clearance from your doctor that will have no bearing on what happens to be decided in the military, civilian doctors are not seen as having the ability to "clear" you for military service, unfortunately. MEPS's word and decision is going to be the last decision and if they say you aren't even if your civilian doctor says yes, that decision is final, unless you go for a waiver, which Asthma IS a waiverable condition.
My suggestion is to continue to finish college, get your degree and then look and see if your still interested in the military or coast guard, at that point when your eligable for a job as a police officer you may decide that you would rather be a civi police officer! Also have you looked at all the police filing events around you, not all police officer jobs require 60 college credits, some only require 30, and some require none and only a high school degree! Good luck, and god speed!