How about CI?

[mbabenko]

Well, this year is my last. As its end approaches, I look back on my cadet career with a bit of regret about things I could've done differently and a crap load of good and bad memories. However, that's not what I want to talk about. I'm thinking about re-entering as a CI, and I'm not completely sure that I'll be coming back to the same squadron (even though my current squadron is great and I love it). I'm wondering if someone knows anything about being a CI and eventually a CIC officer. Anything you would be of a great help.

[sgt4life]

Well, this year is my last. As its end approaches, I look back on my cadet career with a bit of regret about things I could've done differently and a crap load of good and bad memories. However, that's not what I want to talk about. I'm thinking about re-entering as a CI, and I'm not completely sure that I'll be coming back to the same squadron (even though my current squadron is great and I love it). I'm wondering if someone knows anything about being a CI and eventually a CIC officer. Anything you would be of a great help.

I did this just recently. I think I would have had an easier time making the transition in my old squadron because I knew the officers better, but because I was so familiar with the cadets, the transition would not be as complete as it it, and I would end up in serious trouble if I ever had to deal with cadets from another squadron as an officer.

In other words, it's very different, being a cadet and being a CI/Officer. If you stay at your old squadron, you'll probably find it easier than you would in another squadron because the leadership style you were able to use as a cadet will still work with. If you go to another squadron, your leadership style would change and become more officer-like than it would if you stayed in your old squadron. That being said, it also depends on your current leadership style. :)

I can't help but wonder if that makes sense to anyone but me now... *shrugs!*

[The Blue Tory]

Well, this year is my last. As its end approaches, I look back on my cadet career with a bit of regret about things I could've done differently and a crap load of good and bad memories. However, that's not what I want to talk about. I'm thinking about re-entering as a CI, and I'm not completely sure that I'll be coming back to the same squadron (even though my current squadron is great and I love it). I'm wondering if someone knows anything about being a CI and eventually a CIC officer. Anything you would be of a great help.

I am going to tell you what I've been told...

Take time off...

Adjust to the outside of cadet life first...

You really shouldn't go back until all or the majority of NCOs and cadets have passed through the system. If you go back next year as CI, you may be tempted to think and do things you did as a CI. As well, you might confuse some lower ranked people who may think that you are still a cadet.

[mbabenko]

I did this just recently. I think I would have had an easier time making the transition in my old squadron because I knew the officers better, but because I was so familiar with the cadets, the transition would not be as complete as it it, and I would end up in serious trouble if I ever had to deal with cadets from another squadron as an officer.

In other words, it's very different, being a cadet and being a CI/Officer. If you stay at your old squadron, you'll probably find it easier than you would in another squadron because the leadership style you were able to use as a cadet will still work with. If you go to another squadron, your leadership style would change and become more officer-like than it would if you stayed in your old squadron. That being said, it also depends on your current leadership style. :)

I can't help but wonder if that makes sense to anyone but me now... *shrugs!*

Well, I was hoping more for an administrative position or the one in supply or ground-school. This way, I'll be able to adapt rapidly to the new squadron (that is IF I decide to change) and get to know cadets and ways to approach them (in professional way).

TaktikL Philosophy
As for taking a break, I'll try doing it this summer. And if I DO decide to change squadrons, I won't have problems you've mentioned.


THANKS

[The Blue Tory]

Well, I was hoping more for an administrative position or the one in supply or ground-school. This way, I'll be able to adapt rapidly to the new squadron (that is IF I decide to change) and get to know cadets and ways to approach them (in professional way).

TaktikL Philosophy
As for taking a break, I'll try doing it this summer. And if I DO decide to change squadrons, I won't have problems you've mentioned.


THANKS

True, that is a good thing to do switching units...

But I still strongly suggest you take a year off, so that you can see what the world has to offer... Don't rush in and limit yourself

[mbabenko]

True, that is a good thing to do switching units...

But I still strongly suggest you take a year off, so that you can see what the world has to offer... Don't rush in and limit yourself

Any suggestions?

[Pilot]

becoming a CI and CIC officer definately gives you a great opportunitiy to give back. Although you may have regrets, I'm sure you will look back on your time as a cadet thinking about the good more than the bad..

[HLanay]

I didn't take any time off between being a cadet and a CI. I returned from HMCS Ontario as a Staff Cadet and Signed my CI agreement 3 days later. The transition isn't hard if you are able to deal with it on your own terms.

Again, it really depends on the Corps/squadron you are with, and everyones experiences will be different. Some people have a hard time adjusting and some people have it easier!

Try it and find out what works for you

[Aprile]

I personally think switching to a different corps would be in your best interest. We had a Cox'n turn CI as soon as he aged out, and the cadets (especially his friends) still treated him as if he was a Cadet. Yes, you will have more familliar faces, but I think that is distracting as well. If you think you would rather be with your old corps, I would suggest waiting a few years, if you don't care (which you did write you thought about changing) then I'd say go for it!

[Band_Goddess]

I think it depends on why you are becoming a CI. If you are becoming a CI to start giving back what you got and passing on the valuable knowledge and experience, or if you hestitant to leave the cadet life and looking for a way to stay involved and be a part of what your friends are still doing....
I believe that you first need to figure out why you want to stay in cadets, then you will know wether or not it is a good idea to go back to your old corps/sqdn, or perhaps try a new one.

As for myself, I am a CI and have been for some time now. I am not saying it is better or worse than CIC. It is simply the place I am in now.

My first summer as a CI was difficult, but I was extremely glad to be doing it at a camp where I had never been as a cadet. This most certainly made the transition easier than it could have been, however, still difficult.
I kept telling myself "Don't act like a Chief" all summer, and in turn found it very hard to be the type of "adult staff" as I would have seen myself. It took me a long time (about 4 weeks) to realize that I didn't learn all the skills they taught me in cadets, just to forget about them the second I was filling an officer role. I just had to know when it was time to step back and let the staff cadets do their job. I'll be honest with you, I found it hard not to take over sometimes. Inititive is something that you are told to take and use whenever you can, as a junior NCO. It is generally the reason you got selected to be Squadron Commander, RSM or Coxswain over someone else, for me it was the hardest part about being a first year "officer". I just had to let someone else step up to the plate.

Now, of course, this isn't a problem. I just teach music. ;)

My point is (it may have gotten lost in this essay of a post.) I don't think you need to take time off if you know your reasons for wanting to go back to cadets. If you are clear about what you are doing, and why you are there, then it shouldn't be a problem. However, if your reasons aren't as clear as they should be, then perhaps taking some time off, or trying another corps is a good idea for you.

JD

Its just my opinion...

[CanuckPilot]

Ok. I know that some people will always tell you to take time off. I didn't and I'm doing just fine, but I went to a new unit. Essentially, as a cadet you make friends with your fellow cadets. You may be going to parties with them and doing all kinds of crazy things. If you become a CI or OCdt at your home unit, you might have dificulty dealing with your friends who are still in cadets. This can cause serious complications. So if you only want to work at your old unit, I suggest that you take some time off and let a few levels of your friends to age out before you step into a leadership role. Another option would be to transfer to another unit where you don't know the cadets. This will allow you a fresh start, and you can always go back to your old unit later if they have room for you after a little while away.

If you've been in cadets right up until you age out, you really don't HAVE to take any time off. You're already more qualified for the job than a random adult or parent with no cadet experience who's starting from scratch. However, I DEFINATLY suggest you take some time away from your home unit.

[SmileForMe]

Ok. I know that some people will always tell you to take time off. I didn't and I'm doing just fine, but I went to a new unit. Essentially, as a cadet you make friends with your fellow cadets. You may be going to parties with them and doing all kinds of crazy things. If you become a CI or OCdt at your home unit, you might have dificulty dealing with your friends who are still in cadets. This can cause serious complications. So if you only want to work at your old unit, I suggest that you take some time off and let a few levels of your friends to age out before you step into a leadership role. Another option would be to transfer to another unit where you don't know the cadets. This will allow you a fresh start, and you can always go back to your old unit later if they have room for you after a little while away.

If you've been in cadets right up until you age out, you really don't HAVE to take any time off. You're already more qualified for the job than a random adult or parent with no cadet experience who's starting from scratch. However, I DEFINATLY suggest you take some time away from your home unit.

Instead of repeating what everyone has been saying, I'll just quote it. I totally agree with this. When I became a CI and then a NCdt I did it at a new corps. Mostly because I came out here for university. But when I think about it I realize if I had become an officer at my old corps it would be very different because I had a lot of cadet friends. All in all... switch corps if you are going straight in. Mind you, if you don't have any friends at your home corps or you think you could keep it professional and they would recognize you as an officer, then by all means. Hope this helps. :)

[Caz]

Some people are able to make the transition right away. Others need more time for adjustment. It doesn't make anyone better than the other.

The decision of when to get involved as a CIC or an Officer in the CIC Branch depends on you, your abilities, and the commitment you can make. If you can do it right away, great. If you can't, awesome - go travel and come back in a year or two!

No matter the scenario, I recommend two things:

1) Go to a different unit (even element) if possible

2) Once enroled in the CF, get on course as soon as you can.

Good luck!

-R.

[mbabenko]

Thanks everyone.
Unfortunately, taking some time to think whether I should join as a CI is not an option, because it's a matter of promise, however I haven't promised to rejoin the same unit (a matter of bureaucracy), doing which will be the object of my deepest thoughts and reflections in the nearest future.

[SmileForMe]

Thanks everyone.
Unfortunately, taking some time to think whether I should join as a CI is not an option, because it's a matter of promise, however I haven't promised to rejoin the same unit (a matter of bureaucracy), doing which will be the object of my deepest thoughts and reflections in the nearest future.

Who did you make a promise to??

[mbabenko]

Who did you make a promise to??
I'm not sure, but I think that it was baisicly one of the key elements that helped me to get power. Therefore, I can't let down the people I gave my word to and taking time to think whether or not I want to become a CI is out of the question. I'll give it a try, and if I like it, I'll stay. Sounds like a plan to me.

[Caz]

You shouldn't have to make deals to get scholarships.

Besides, the League makes that decision, not your CO.

[mbabenko]

You shouldn't have to make deals to get scholarships.

Besides, the League makes that decision, not your CO.

1. It wasn't a deal but an argument. (Which by the way I was highly encouraged to make)
2. I wasn't talking about my CO
3. A promise is a promise no matter even if you give it to a recrute.

[Caz]

Your points don't make a lot of sense to me. Not enough background on the issue. But I digress.

The only reason you should become a CI (and hopefully an Officer) is if you want to, and you can put in the commitment required, and if you believe that you can contribute something valuable (time, skills, insight, etc).

Which I think you can. Give 'er.

The point being, it's your decision.

Good luck :D

[SmileForMe]

Your points don't make a lot of sense to me. Not enough background on the issue. But I digress.

The only reason you should become a CI (and hopefully an Officer) is if you want to, and you can put in the commitment required, and if you believe that you can contribute something valuable (time, skills, insight, etc).

Which I think you can. Give 'er.

The point being, it's your decision.

Good luck :D

Agreed! :D

[mbabenko]

Your points don't make a lot of sense to me. Not enough background on the issue. But I digress.

The only reason you should become a CI (and hopefully an Officer) is if you want to, and you can put in the commitment required, and if you believe that you can contribute something valuable (time, skills, insight, etc).

Which I think you can. Give 'er.

The point being, it's your decision.

Good luck :D

I do want to become a CI and I believe I CAN in fact contribute something valuable like things that you have mentioned above. I'll sure give it a try and if it doesn't work out, well too bad. I also think that being a CI is much different then being an NCO and I've even got certain hopes and expectations.

[The Blue Tory]

Speaking of CI... I think it's time... I am going to see about CI with the local army unit next September.

[Nitrane]

If you want some advice, its best to go to another squadron not your own. Knowing the cadets from your past cadet life makes for a rough transition. As for joining up with the CIC, thats easy, if you have a half decent admin office at your old unit. My paperwork has been for quite some time now, Im just playing the waiting game now.

[GliderGimp]

Wow seems like everyone is strongly favoring not going back to your own unit.

I'm signing my CI paperwork as soon as my staff cadet contract is through and my position on the squadron staff is already decided. My dep. comm. left from her position and became a CI half way through this year and she hasn't had too much of a problem.

I'm personally looking forward to it and I think the transition is going to go well and easily. The goal is to stay CI for a year while I decide if I can go CIC without too much of a conflict with university.

I guess I'm pretty much in the same boat but to mbabenko I'd say do it if you can handle it.

[sailrox]

I htink it's good to et out of cadets entirely for year. Sure, a promise is a promise, but I'm sure you'd be more than fulfilling it if you came back a better officer than you might have been had you gone in two early.

I think it's important to just get out of cadets for a while. You'll come back with new perspective, and leadership, rather than just parroting back what your corps has taught you for 6 years.

Same arguments go for going with a different corps. The more, varied, experiences you have, the better an officer you'll be. And that's the best a corps can ask for.

[Lola]

I thought about becoming a CI right after cadets too. Going back to my corps was out of the question; there's a rule that we have to wait a year befire coming back. I checked out Resolute, the other corps in Edmonton, and I wasn't impressed. Then I decided that I wasn't ready to be back in cadets at all, so I'm on a break. :) I do want to go back some day, and if I'm in Edmonton when I do, then I'll go back to Warrior.

[SuNGoddeSS]

Here's some of my expreiences, I am currently with a corps that I have been familiar with since I joined cadets. This corps is another unit in my flotilla. I stayed on as a CI with my old unit, and then switched to this one, as I moved and came in with welcome arms. My only issue is that in one hand I am experiencing something different in the idea that is a new corps, but I also am expereiencing the same as my old unit, since I already knew the unit. I am moving next week, and looking around to go to a new unit, one that I don't know. I don't regret taking not taking the time away at all. This is going to be my first summer away from camp. Good Luck to me. I work full time, and I'd actually work less hours at camp. But I'll miss it, and I'll be there to visit.

[The Blue Tory]

Leslie where are you moving to?

[RatherBeFlyin]

Well, this year is my last. As its end approaches, I look back on my cadet career with a bit of regret about things I could've done differently and a crap load of good and bad memories. . I feel the exact same way even though i'm not aging out until April 2005.

[152...hardcorp]

wat do u mean u wernt impressed by resolute eh!

[wlfcat]

Without giving away my age, lets just say, I finished my cadet career in the 80's and didn't return to the movement until 2000.
I've seen many cadets graduate out and then come back that September and try to be a CI. I strongly suggest that you take the time off.... It's a hard transition to make from being a cadet, to becoming one of the staff members. Common phrases often heard were, "when I was a cadet"... or "they didn't do that for us last year".... things change, Det's make new rules, leadership changes... give yourself some time off and then come back.

[Dick]

Hows a year off sound? lol

[wlfcat]

You were a fine WOI and you will be a fine CI...
welcome aboard!! ;)

and a year off is good!

[Wolfmann]

Well, this year is my last. As its end approaches, I look back on my cadet career with a bit of regret about things I could've done differently and a crap load of good and bad memories. However, that's not what I want to talk about. I'm thinking about re-entering as a CI, and I'm not completely sure that I'll be coming back to the same squadron (even though my current squadron is great and I love it). I'm wondering if someone knows anything about being a CI and eventually a CIC officer. Anything you would be of a great help.

I'm in that boat now bro, waiting to gain the confidence of my CO so I can enter the CIC. My commitment is a life long one, and I'm very happy with my corp, my fellow officers, as well as our core of senior non-comms.

However, it came without naught. When I left Cadets I was disgruntled (personal history...the reason was a fundamental lack of leadership at my old corps) and hurt and I really didn't want anything to do with cadets. It took me a while but about six months ago something went click (I think having a baby helped) and I decided that Cadets wasn't bad, in fact it gave me a lot of good things. So I approched Admiral Nelles and I'm now on as a CI, with the eye of joining the CIC (there is a position waiting for me).

My advice to you is if you feel like you need to change corps' to be a CI, then take some time off. Go to school, get your degree - GET OUT of the environment.

It's only until you can wipe your slate clean and reflect upon your need will you decide for yourself if being a CI is right for you. It's a tremendous responsibility and it's not all easy cosy, ward-room huggie-kissee...there are very specific demands placed on you and you have to perform. Officer aren't directly responsible for the actual specifics, they're more mental game players...strategizers.

Once something isn't in your life anymore, is the only time you can really come to appreciate it.

[Lt(N) Jean Cyr]

My advice to you is if you feel like you need to change corps' to be a CI, then take some time off. Go to school, get your degree - GET OUT of the environment.

I disagree. Corps and Sqn's are crying out for help. If you feel you need to go to another unit (for whatever your reason is), then do it, I'm sure your new corps/sqn will take full advantage of your skills and dedication to the programme.


Officer aren't directly responsible for the actual specifics, they're more mental game players...strategizers.

Really? Care to explain?


Once something isn't in your life anymore, is the only time you can really come to appreciate it.

I appreciate my involvement in the CCM every single day. I'll go out on a limb here and say that perhaps the statement you've made above applies to yourself and not necessarily everyone else.

J

[Wolfmann]

Again my comments are taken out of context, but that's my fault not yours.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I disagree. Corps and Sqn's are crying out for help. If you feel you need to go to another unit (for whatever your reason is), then do it, I'm sure your new corps/sqn will take full advantage of your skills and dedication to the programme.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In his heart there is a reason he wants to go to another corps...either because there is no position for him, or because in his heart he knows he needs change. If it's the aforementioned, then by all means hop to it. If it's the latter...then I believe he would make a better officer if he got out of the environment and focused on something else. An alternative experience can do wonders for your resolve...it can clean up a muddy mind, and renew your heart.



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I appreciate my involvement in the CCM every single day. I'll go out on a limb here and say that perhaps the statement you've made above applies to yourself and not necessarily everyone else.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am sure you do, and so do many of the CIC. My statement doesn't just apply to me, but applies to many people generically in their life. Absence makes the heart grow fonder...and it's really your heart that needs to be strong to be able to dedicate your life and your energies to stay involved and satisfied with the CCM.

When I left Cadets I left misgruntled and unhappy. I'd been afforded treatment that a young, impressionable teenager should not have to go through. Even up to 5 years ago I still would've balked if anyone asked me to go back...the decision definitely wouldn't of been mine. However now, I've come to a new point in my life, a new outlook and I realize that it wasn't the cadet organization to blame - in fact they have given me lifelong skills, leadership skills. I just had to come to realize it. With the recent birth of my son I decided to start reaching, and decided that it was time to return.

I appreciate now, more than ever, my involvement with this organization. You do not appreciate fully what it is you have until you no longer have it.

My comment on officers is simply they are not micromanagers. They cannot be concerned with the small details of running a corps...but they are strategists, organizers, leaders, and guiders. Macromanagers. They provide input and feedback and direction.

If this kid's destiny is to be an officer, he will be. But he should not deny what he feels in his heart and if it's half full, maybe take a year or two, get himself established in school (which is a big enough change as it is). A little time off is good for the heart, and clears the muddied brain.

I'd rather someone go do what they need to do and become a better officer because of it, instead of taking someone out of need that could only fulfil 50% of his potential. If they can step right from being a cadet into CIC, that's a bonus, but it's a difficult transition. One not to be taken lightly.

[Lola]

wat do u mean u wernt impressed by resolute eh!

I assume you're talking to me. Well, sorry, but I wasn't, and I'm not going to get into details with you. :)