by 123EEforME » Thu Aug 28, 2014 6:08 pm
I am currently starting my Sophomore year as an undergrad Electrical Engineering major with a 3.97 GPA. I never served in the military or held a government position, however, I was still awarded three years of funding to finish my undergrad degree. From my experience, I believe you will be offered an award; just remember nothing is certain as there are many factors (budget is one) outside of your control. Also, it is true that government jobs come with headaches and that your potential government wage will likely be uncompetitive, but you would be wise to factor in the value of what you get during college. After about $31,000 for tuition, $25,000 a year for room/board/miscellaneous expenses, and $2,200 for books/health insurance, the annual value for me is about $60,000 (this can vary greatly depending on tuition). So if working for the DoD interests you, I believe it is a good deal; but if you simply apply for the money, it is likely you will end up hating your government job. This is simply my opinion, and since I have never worked for the government, it is subject to change.
With regards to your combined bachelors/masters degree, currently SMART participants are able to apply for an extension their SMART award length (I say currently because this could change anytime). From what I understand, you simply go through the same application process for an extension as the initial application process into the program. The key word here is you "apply" for it; I do not think you are guaranteed to get the extension, but with your credentials it is likely you would get it. I hope this assists you in making the best decision for your situation.
I am currently starting my Sophomore year as an undergrad Electrical Engineering major with a 3.97 GPA. I never served in the military or held a government position, however, I was still awarded three years of funding to finish my undergrad degree. From my experience, I believe you will be offered an award; just remember nothing is certain as there are many factors (budget is one) outside of your control. Also, it is true that government jobs come with headaches and that your potential government wage will likely be uncompetitive, but you would be wise to factor in the value of what you get during college. After about $31,000 for tuition, $25,000 a year for room/board/miscellaneous expenses, and $2,200 for books/health insurance, the annual value for me is about $60,000 (this can vary greatly depending on tuition). So if working for the DoD interests you, I believe it is a good deal; but if you simply apply for the money, it is likely you will end up hating your government job. This is simply my opinion, and since I have never worked for the government, it is subject to change.
With regards to your combined bachelors/masters degree, currently SMART participants are able to apply for an extension their SMART award length (I say currently because this could change anytime). From what I understand, you simply go through the same application process for an extension as the initial application process into the program. The key word here is you "apply" for it; I do not think you are guaranteed to get the extension, but with your credentials it is likely you would get it. I hope this assists you in making the best decision for your situation.