Questions about enlisting.

[CorporateMike]

Hi everyone. Hope everyone is doing well. I just have a couple of questions. I am 29 and overweight so it is going to take a while for me to get in shape. But I am interested in enlisting in the guard. It's a long story but I don't feel like I've done anything important with my life and it has led to some personal problems (low self-esteem, some depression) But I was wondering, if I am accepted and go off to basic, do I have to get a leave of absence from my job? How does that work? and do I have to arrange for basic and AIT when I ask off? Does my company have to let me take the time off to train? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and God bless.

[ping9798]

Firstly, regarding the depression. Are you on any medications for it, or do you just go through the periods where you feel down?

Secondly, your employer has to keep your job, by law. You cannot be fired for being gone for training or deployments. The only catch is that they could do away with your position, but not your job. Such as, if you work shifts, you may not be guarenteed to get that particular shift back. But, they aren't allowed to fire you. I don't know the exact procedure for getting the time off for training because I haven't done that yet...I'm sure you would just need to give them a couple of weeks notice. When you enlist, you will be assigned a ship date for training, so as soon as you find that out, let your boss know so they can make the appropriate arrangements.

Lastly..as far as the weight goes, just take your time and work at it. I'm in the same predicament with being overweight, but with enough time and dedication, you will be able to slim down. Start off slow and work your way up. Being 29 years old won't be a problem..you can be 39 I think for non-prior service. You're still young :)

If you have any questions, especially regarding the depression aspect, feel free to PM or email me. I've personally dealt with the medication issue and whatnot, so I can give you some advice if you'd like. My email is ping9798@hotmail.com

Take care and good luck. You can do it!


Lindsay

[EFregoso]

Hey,

Ping is correct, they are required by law to let you go to basic and your training. Something that you need to do is give your employer a lot of notice prior to going on your training/basic. Even if you don't know if you are actully going to go still let your employer know that you may be going. Most employers are cool about letting you leave, just talk to them about it. They can't really say "No, you can't go".

About the weight problem, just work on it. Go running, or walking. Do what your body will allow you to do. Be sure you walk for 30 minutes or longer a day. I suggest about an hour. So go whatever pace you can for a hour. Plus remember to eat good.