This is my first post and there's something I would like to say: I'm very happy to have found such a comprehensive and genuine resource on Navy Nukes. By far one of the best websites I've ever visited, and that's saying quite a lot.
Now, I feel it's necessary to provide a little background information. Two months ago, after much consideration and soul-searching, I decided to see a Navy recruiter. As you know, the first thing they have you do is the practice ASVAB. They saw my score of 99 and, of course, tried to sell me all day on the nuclear field. I was told that they were only accepting people for three jobs: nukes, SEALs, and musicians. Well, I happen to be an experienced musician, so I told them I was interested in that. However, ever since junior high, I always had an interest in nuclear engineering. I also have a few family friends who were special forces in various branches (SEALs, Green Berets, Rangers, etc.), so that naturally appealed to me. I was told there was a waiting list for nukes and a plan was laid out for me by my recruiters. First, I would go to MEPS and sign the nuke contract. Second, they would set up the music audition and, if I made it, that contract would overwrite the nuke contract. Well, I really liked the idea of becoming a SEAL, which I'm well aware is no easy feat. However, I did some research and it turns out, I'm not qualified to be a SEAL because of my moderate near-sightedness. I understand that getting LASIK before enlisting is guaranteed to disqualify me from all military service, so that idea is out. PRK is an option, but still not a very good idea before enlisting because of possible waiver complications. I decided to enlist as a nuke, although my dream of being a SEAL is still very much alive. I went to the MEPS in January, easily passed the medical review, signed the nuke contract, and swore in on the 20th. The music audition has been set up and I'm practicing as much as possible, as I'd prefer musician over nuke.
If you've read this far, congratulations! You've finally reached my question!
Question: I'm aware that the navy can perform PRK free of charge while enlisted, which is what I plan to do. I want to get the surgery, and hopefully switch over to a SEAL at some point during my enlistment. I confess that I know very little about how this process works, and I'm sure some of you veterans can tell by my writing.
How hard is this transfer to accomplish?
Will they only perform the surgery if the job is already set up?
Is it even possible to switch from a nuke to a SEAL?
Would it be easier to switch from a musician to a SEAL?
Obviously I can't just show up at A school and tell them I want to be a SEAL. At what point in my enlistment do job transfers become an option?
Have I set myself up for disappointment by signing up for a nuke contract while secretly hoping to transfer out?
Is my understanding of military contracts and transfer seriously flawed?
There is one point I feel that I must make that is critically important: I will be happy with any of the jobs I get. Whether it's a nuke or a musician at this point, I'm going to give it everything I have because I won't let it be any other way. I have many interests, and every option the Navy has given me is an opportunity for me to thrive. And I will make that opportunity my passion while I'm enlisted, because it's my life and my country, and neither of those will accept anything less.
I would like to thank every post view and reply in advance. I feel that the members here at NukeWorker can really understand my situation, and will do everything they can to help me make an informed decision.