I am a promising engineering student at a well known university, and there is nothing I want to do more than work for the CIA. I will be graduating with a bachelors in May of 2006, and given the length of of the application process, I am seriously weighing my options right now.

First, I am interested in positions of electrical engineer, technical operations officer, and science, weapons, and technology analyst. If anyone has any insights or opinions on these positions, I would appreciate any commentary. Can you apply for more than one position and be considered for all of them?

Second, when should I apply? I've been told that there are hiring 'blitzes' at different times of the year (particularly in the fall), but I wouldn't want to be stuck in adjucation when other offers are coming in close to my graduation.

Third, I have experience working for the federal government, and I have obtained a secret clearance. I am worried about failing a poly because of prior marijuana use (<10 times in high school, ~2.5 years ago) which I admitted to on my SF86. I also tend to 'think too hard' about things - for example, does using pirated software count as stealing something over $200? I worry about failing a poly at such a young age and ruining any future career in intelligence.

I'm debating whether I should apply now, or wait another year or two and go to grad school before applying. Does anyone know anything about the graduate studies program at the CIA? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.