Every now and again a group of new guys STAR, and they wind up complaining A LOT within a week or two of swearing to "...bear true faith and allegiance to the same..." I get tired of it.
Even though people talk about STAR reenlistment as if it only adds two years to your contract, you actually re-enlist for SIX years from the day you raise your right hand again. If you want to stay in the Navy six years beyond a given point in the Navy, do it for the time you'll spend, NOT for the bonus or BAH. Heeeeere's how:
1.) Keep yourself out of debt while in school. A lot of fellers re-enlist to erase their debt (and subsequently accrue far more debt than previously imaginable).
2.) Study your buns off and make E-5 off of the test (google "Northstar Study Guides" and get a PMK guide). That will make you eligible for BAH right off the bat when you get to your ship/boat. A lot of fellers re-enlist to get BAH and live off base.
3.) If you can't make rate off of the test and you NEED a place in town, find enough roommates and a big enough place to have a financially sustainable situation until you can get paid E-5.
4.) If you interested and you get picked up as a SPU go ahead and re-enlist
for the orders (though I know folks that did SPU tours without re-enlisting, but that's a thought for later).
5.) If you're nearing the end of your sea tour and you'd like to spend some more time in the Navy, start negotiating with your detailer for orders you'd like; and re-enlist for those desirable orders. A lot of fellers that STAR'd three or four years ago are regretting their decisions today when they can choose from NPTU, Guam, or a ship on the opposite coast.
First thing's first, though. Go to prototype. Put your hands on some equipment. Qualify a watch station (maybe even stand it alone). Participate in end-of-shift cleanup and field day. Enjoy your time. Then make a decision.
By the way... 3.65 was number 19 in the whole
class? I haven't been in that long, but...
For what it's worth, I didn't finish as high as 3.65 (if I remember correctly). Good on ye.