I applied through a recruiter. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at US Marine Corps
Interview
The recruiters are fairly easy to talk to and easy to find. I enjoyed getting to know my recruiter for a year before I left for basic training. Sometimes you can hear dishonest things/promises, but I never did. I enjoyed serving my Country in the Marine Corps. It's tough, but it was rewarding, just like they say/
I applied in-person. The process took 4 months. I interviewed at US Marine Corps (Livermore, CA) in Aug 2011
Interview
Lengthy process that the recruiter walks you through. If you don't have it in writing do not expect it to happen. Make sure you research the MOS you want ahead of time. Try not to let them to persuade you to go in a direction that you are not comfortable with.