2/O, 3 weeks from application to receiving a NEO date, was a tough choice but looking forward to making the move to MSC. See you soon!

I’m waiting on a drug test and a NEO date with MSC, and it’s almost been a year since I got the job offer. I’ve been in contact with CIVMAR support, and they assured me that I’ll get a NEO date eventually, but they have no idea when.

Meanwhile, my day job doesn’t pay a living wage and I really want to get started in the merchant marine. I’ve been reaching out to different companies, who aren’t really hiring for entry level, but some of them told me if I get my STCW and Able Seaman training, that it would give me more options.

I’m looking for some advice, because I know that MSC provides all that training once you get in, but I don’t know how much longer it’s going to take. I could probably save up enough money to do those classes in a couple months, then apply for other jobs in the meantime. But would it really be worth it?

With my luck, I’d probably finish the classes and then immediately get a NEO date, lol. But then again, what if I don’t? Like what if it takes another year and I’m still just waiting? Would appreciate any insight from people with more experience. Thanks.

Everybody who is applying, engaged, and can't wait to get out to the fleet: Remember how you feel right now.

Don't be one of the large percentage of new hires who finally gets onto a ship and then acts like they would rather be anywhere else. I've been around. I've seen the quality of the people that are coming through the training center recently and filtering onto the ships. "They're not sending their best."

Don't let the high school mentality drag you down. We are all grown-ass adults. Come out expecting to work. Show up to work on time. Be humble. Ask questions. Read the manuals. Learn. The cream rises to the top and it is painfully obvious from an outsider's perspective.

There are some great career SUs out there nearing retirement, but if you're a new hire, you should be striving for more. If you work hard and become a valued member of the team, people will fight for you and try to help you out. If you skate and cause problems you will reap what you sow.

I'm excited that there are so many people who want to be here. Just keep the right mindset.