Choosing between the military and college at 20

Turning 20 soon and going through an existential crisis. Think I might want to go into the military instead of heading straight to college. Anyone here on this forum made that decision? I'm curious about the pros and cons. Also wondering whether it's too late for me to join. Really nervous but trying to educate myself as much as possible. Thanks for your help!

Hey there! Your concerns are completely valid, and it's great that you're approaching this thoughtfully and with a desire to gather as much information as possible. Each individual's path after high school is unique and tailored to their interests and life goals.

In regards to joining the military, it's definitely not too late. The age limit to enroll varies by branch, but generally, you can apply to join up until your late 30s. Some advantages of joining the military include gaining life experiences and developing strong discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills. Tuition assistance and the GI Bill can also provide you with significant aid for college or vocational training later on. The military can also offer vocational training opportunities in various fields, and the skills and experiences you gain can be highly useful when transitioning to civilian employment.

On the other hand, college education provides opportunities to explore a wide range of disciplines, develop analytical and critical thinking skills, and obtain credentials necessary for certain fields. Some may argue that going straight to college allows you to enter the workforce sooner and start building a career in a specialized field.

Keep in mind that these aren't mutually exclusive choices. You can join the military and later attend college, or vice versa. Also, some military branches offer ROTC programs or have academies that combine military training with a college education.

I hope this offers some clarity to your decision-making process. This is a big decision, and it's OK to take your time making it.