My production is my security
~ Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower
In my opinion the best you can do, like others have pointed out on this thread is to choose a path and get the best contract from your recruiter that is aligned with your goals. Then prepare as best as you possibly can prior to your training. During your training, study, give everything 100% and I do mean everything, even on things that don’t seem soldierly, motivation is key. Strive to be the best everywhere you go and ultimately graduate top of your class, lead. It’s good to experience a ‘board’ early in your career; if you’re successful, you’ll see many boards. Also max your APFT, preferably before you ship. How one starts is often how they stay, the Army will whip you into shape, but be ahead of this effort. In conclusion, in life a contract is really only a 10% guarantee of anything. And in this instance your performance, attitude and tenacity is the other 90%. So when your recruiter says kick butt at BAT he is not bullshitting you. Good luck and make it happen.