How does one get started in the field of military linguistics? I'm really drawn to the idea of working with languages in a defense context and would love some advice on entering this field.
Becoming a military linguist can be a fulfilling and challenging career that allows you to utilize your language skills in a meaningful way. However, it requires specific steps to get started.
First and foremost, learning a foreign language to fluency – especially in Middle Eastern, African, or Asian languages – is crucial. Courses in these languages often are available at many colleges and universities.
Second, consider enrolling in Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs in college. These programs allow you to get a taste of military life while still pursuing your degree. You would also get the chance to interact with military personnel who could potentially guide you in the right direction.
After college, one pathway to becoming a military linguist is by enlisting in the U.S. Army or U.S. Air Force, both of which offer positions for linguists. As part of the enlistment process, you would need to take the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB), a test that gauges your ability to learn a language.
After you pass the DLAB, you would attend basic training, followed by language training at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) in Monterey, California. Here, you will study your assigned language in depth for several months.
Keep in mind that a career in military linguistics often requires a security clearance due to the sensitive nature of the work. Maintaining a clean record, financially and legally, is typically necessary to obtain this clearance.
Finally, networking can be a helpful stepping-stone. Look for veterans or currently serving linguists who might be willing to offer advice and provide further insight into the field.
In sum, military linguistics combines linguistic talent, military service, and national defense into one compelling career. The journey might seem long, but your passion for languages will undoubtedly be a worthy companion along the way.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.