Choosing the Military before College: Worth It?

Hey everyone, I've been really contemplating the idea of enlisting in the military before deciding on a college. Has anybody gone down that path and can share their experience? Are there any tangible benefits to going that route or should I just aim for college straight away after high school?

Joining the military before heading to college can indeed have tangible benefits, but it largely depends on your personal circumstances, interests, and career goals.

Firstly, if financial accessibility is a concern for you, choosing the military before college might be a good idea because the military offers significant financial aid benefits. The G.I. Bill, for instance, provides money for college tuition, housing, and even books for military veterans. Additionally, serving in the military can provide you with steady pay (and sometimes bonuses), healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and other benefits that could provide financial stability during and after service.

Aside from the financial benefits, the military also provides valuable experiences that could complement your later college and professional career. You'll have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic, all of which are essential skills that college admission officers and future employers value highly.

In addition, you could get a professional head start through the numerous vocational training programs the military offers. Depending on which branch you enlist in, you could gain specialized skills in areas like engineering, healthcare, intelligence, and more.

However, it's also important to remember that military service is a heavy commitment. The physical and mental challenges can be demanding and the lifestyle isn't for everyone. You will also be formally committing a specific number of years to your service. Therefore, it's crucial to do ample research and self-reflection to ensure that it's the right choice for you ahead of time.

Investigating colleges and the military simultaneously could provide a balanced perspective on your options. Consider speaking with military recruiters and college admissions officers, researching online, and reaching out to individuals who have had similar experiences.

In the end, there's no single "right" path and this is a personal decision. Going to college straight out of high school might work best for some, while others may find the experience and benefits gained from military service invaluable. And remember, these paths are not mutually exclusive—you can serve in the military and later attend college, and vice versa.