Coast Guard Reserves and studying abroad?

Charis Deguzman: You would have to get your unit to put you on IRR or standby reserve status for a year so you could go abroad. They may or may not be willing to let you. If you REALLY want to study abroad, you'd better put off joining up until you get back, just to sure. Study abroad is an amazing opportunity. You could always join the Coast Guard ACTIVE DUTY after you graduate college, and come in an officer if you meet those standards as well! You can have it all, just not at once. ;) Good luck!...Show more

Teodoro Lamond: You will have to choose between the Coast Guard and studying abroad. Indeed, possibly you will not even be able to attend a traditional college. You have no idea where you will be stationed and if there is a University that offers a degree that you are interested in. The Coasties are spread out all over the U.S. and a few overseas bases too. I would recommend four years of college followed by a commission in the Coast Guard.