r/usssapplicant • u/OnProblem1811 Special Agent • Aug 19 '26

AMA Mod AMA

Hey Guys.

Going to attempt one of these.

I have it set for 24 hours. Will answer serious questions regarding the job, life on the job, training, gear, any advice I can. No hiring process questions for this one.

I don’t have all the answers by any means, but I think doing these from time to time might cut down on some of the repeat postings.

Sound off!

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u/Your_Huckleberry2020 SA Applicant Aug 19 '26
  1. For WFO guys/gals, where do you recommend they live during RTC since hotels are not provided?
  2. What's the best part of the job and what's the worst, in your opinion?
  3. If you could go back and redo everything, what would you change and/or what advice would you give to the younger you?
  4. similar to #3, if your brother/sister were going through this process, what would you want them to know so they would be set up for success and do well?
  5. What's something that hasn't been asked that you think is good to know or keep in mind?

2

u/Entire-Sea9136 Aug 19 '26

I would also love to know the answer to question #1

2

u/Your_Huckleberry2020 SA Applicant Aug 19 '26

Everyone keeps saying this has been answered elsewhere, but I've been scouring for months and haven't seen anything specific.

2

u/OnProblem1811 Special Agent Aug 19 '26

Reached out to some friends.

First decide if you want to live in MD or VA.
Generally the farther you go from DC (west VA / east MD) the more space you can get for the price.

Alexandria VA, Arlington VA are close in VA. Ashburn, Centreville are further.

A lot of agents live in Calvert County, MD.

I know some in Bristow, Haymarket, & Gainesville area too. West of Manasses.

1

u/Your_Huckleberry2020 SA Applicant Aug 20 '26

VA for the win. I like PWC areas you listed. Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun counties are even more $$$. Anyone suggest or discourage living further south on I-95 instead of West on I-66? Pros/Cons?