The Pros and Cons of Joining the Military Before vs After College

Hey everyone, I'm seriously considering a career in the military, but I'm kind of stuck on whether it's better to join before or after college. I've heard the military can give good financial aid for tuition and stuff, but I also think going to college first could offer me more options if I change my mind, plus the military may treat me differently if I already have a degree. What are your thoughts on this end-of-high school decision? What are the benefits/risks of both?

One path is not necessarily "better" than the other; it really varies depending on your personal goals and circumstances. However, both paths indeed have their pros and cons.

Joining the military before college:

Pros:

1. Military service can be a great way to gain life experience and maturity, which can enhance your college applications when you decide to attend later.

2. The GI Bill can provide significant financial assistance for your later college education. This may be particularly valuable if you're concerned about the cost of tuition, room, board, and other college expenses.

3. The military may offer job training and skill-building opportunities in a wide variety of fields.

Cons:

1. Military service can be physically and emotionally demanding, and not everyone is suited to the lifestyle and commitments involved.

2. If you're eager to get your college education started and stay on a more "traditional" path, you may find the delay frustrating.

3. The veteran benefits for education (like the GI Bill) unfortunately don't always cover the total costs of attendance for some colleges

Attending college before the military:

Pros:

1. You'll be eligible to enter the military at a higher rank if you enlist with a degree, which equates to higher pay.

2. College can be a great opportunity to explore your interests and potentially identify other career paths you may be passionate about.

3. Having a degree might open more advanced positions in the military, like officer positions.

Cons:

1. College is a significant financial investment, and you'll need to navigate financial aid, scholarships, loans, etc. which can be complex and stressful.

2. Transitioning into the military after getting used to college life could be difficult, as they're very different environments.

3. Depending on the nature of your degree and the specific military role you aim for, you might not be able to apply everything you learned in college immediately.

Ultimately, both choices can lead to success in the military and beyond. Remember, you can also participate in a Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program during college, which offers a successful blend of both options. ROTC provides a way for you to gain military training while studying, with a commitment to serve after you graduate. It's also worth noting that the military offers several different paths-- enlistment, officer programs, reserves-- and the best one for you might depend on the specific benefits and experiences you're seeking.

Please thoroughly research and consider your options, and perhaps talk to some current or former service members who have taken one or both paths before making your decision.