Introduction - Derek

[Derek_1559]

My name is Derek. I'm 17 and a junior in high school. Becoming an Army Ranger is one of my two options for a career, the other being a pilot. Of anything really. And hey, maybe after a good amount of service, end up in the night stalkers? At the moment I'm trying to decide which to take, because once i'm done with high school i'll be able to enlist. I don't have anyone related to me, or even that i know, that are in the military, so I thought this would be a good resource to the Ranger part. Also, i heard that SFOD-D recruits from the 75th. Anyways, I was wondering if any of you rangers could give me a little info. I don't know any of the routes to take to get in, so if i could get info on any or all ways, that would be great. I was also wondering about education. Is high school enough or is college recommended? And if so, what major? And also, if i were to go to college after high school, would ROTC be a good/recommended way to go? Thanks for your time in reading this!

[Earthpig]

Welcome, Derek. You've set some high standards. Believe it or not, we have men on this site who've done both of your choices. Wiht the right mindset, either or both can be accomplished.

RLTW
EP

[Ranger Ron]

Welcome to ArmyRanger.com. First, I appreciate your desire to serve our great country. As Ranger EarthPig has said, you can do both. I would suggest however that it will be much easier, in my opinion, to first become a Ranger then at some point become a pilot. If you do it the other way around, the chances of having the opportunity to attend Ranger School and serve in the 75th Ranger Reg. is much slimmer. Perhaps someone here who has done both will come along and give you their perspective.

For what it is worth, I became a commercial and instrument pilot after I got out of the military. In fact, used the GI bill to pay for about 80% of the cost. Of course that is nothing like being a military pilot.

Best of luck!

[Derek_1559]

Thank you to both of you Rangers. I appreciate the input.