Ahhh... I can't answer your questions, unfortunately. I'm only a spouse and never joined the military myself, outside of marrying into it. And my hubby went the ROTC route, so, so far as I know, he didn't ever take the asvab himself. I wish Nate was here (one of our admins) because he just signed up last year (Air Force). He finished up basic and is now almost done with tech school. I'm sure others can answer those direct questions, though.

What I wanted to say is to remind you to have a very clear plan about what to do with your animals while going through military commitments. You wouldn't be able to take them to basic...and probably not tech school either, depending on living situations. If you're single, I think you have to live in a dorm-type setting for tech school. And some base housing, even outside the dorms, have strict rules about what kinds of pets and how many are allowed. Not to mention deployments (they WILL happen, no matter what field you go into) and potential moves to exotic locations overseas.

Even as a spouse who stays home, with 20+ years in the military, we still have to give a LOT of thoughts to our pets each and every time we move. Finding a home that will not just fit our family but allow our pets. Transporting our pets. Checking on local restrictions on exotics. It's a lot to consider and deal with...and we move a LOT. Eight moves in the last eleven years. I can never have more than a small collection of critters....and I've got a pretty good routine down for transporting them....but it's a huge pain in the butt every time, let me tell you. Nothing like driving for twelve hours straight across the desert in the summer time with a car full of heat-sensitive animals.

I am in NO way wanting to discourage your thoughts about joining the Air Force. Personally, I think it's one of the best things a young person can do for themselves...especially if they want to go to college, but don't have the financial means to do so. Stay in for just a few years...or for a full, life-time career....it's an amazing experience. Just know going in that pets and military don't mix well together.