Thread: Branching MI

I'm considering branching Military Intelligence after I commission. I've been told that it is one of the hardest branches to get along with Infantry and Aviation. I am currently researching any and all means and outlets that are available to me to hopefully secure this branch. One of my ROTC instructors has informed me that it would behoove me to start learning a foreign language, and I am also looking into applying for the ROTC Intelligence and Security Command Internship Program. I already have a SECRET security clearance (if that alters anything) but what else should I be doing to make myself more 'attractive' to potential MI scouts? My PT is solid, my GPA is stable at a 3.2 (working on that one) and I'm trying to get in on as many leadership roles as possible to get my name out there. Any other suggestions? I'll take any input anyone can give me, especially those in the MI field. Thanks!

As far as everyone has told me the language you'll learn is what MI wants you to learn. Either on this site or another some time ago there was a young man who knew Mandarin but he would up having to learn another one. I'm sure that any language you know is a good start, though, regardless which other language they want to teach you.

I assume though that being proficient in any foreign language is better than none? I could be wrong

We don't have any MI Officers here. I was OCS, not ROTC, so I'm not sure how branch selection works. Is it assigned by USAREC, or do you compete on an OML?

Infantry hard to get ???????

Try to be on top of your OML and work those channels. Active or reserve/NG officer? That will make a big difference.

Bottom line is needs of the Army

ROTC Cadets compete on a national OML. The top ~25% get their first-second choice of branches, the next ~25% their third or fourth choice and so on. I plan on going Active Duty. I'm going to SMP with my current unit (Field Artillery) as it is most practical in terms of location/personnel and I don't think there's any MI units around here.

Thanks, I'd appreciate it. I just need to get a better idea of what things I should and can do to get an MI slot upon commissioning (i.e. foreign language skills, internships, schools, etc.) and whatever else that will help.