G'day all, I've been considering my options post high school, and one thought I've had recently is, why not go into college and then, after graduation, join the military? Would it be a good route, like, would it give me any advantages that I wouldn’t otherwise have if I joined the military right after high school? Would love to get some advice or hear from someone who's done this themselves.
Joining the military after college definitely presents certain advantages compared to enlisting right out of high school.
First and foremost, with a college degree, you qualify to become an officer. Officers hold a higher rank than enlisted personnel and typically have more leadership responsibilities. Consequently, they also receive higher pay and increased benefits. Each branch of the military has different programs for college graduates wishing to become officers, like Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS).
On top of this, having a degree may give you greater career options within the military. In some specialized positions—think areas like law, medicine, engineering, cybersecurity—holding a degree in a relevant field is often a requisite for entry.
Finally, armed forces usually offer various education benefits and loan repayment programs. For instance, the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill can reimburse college tuition and offer a monthly housing stipend, amongst other benefits.
And these are just the professional benefits! From a personal viewpoint, college can also be an empowering and enlightening time for self-growth. It can provide you with in-depth knowledge in a chosen field, or just broaden your intellectual horizon. Plus, it offers the opportunity to make lasting friendships and connections.
Nevertheless, it's essential to understand that the commitment to join the military is a significant one. This route requires a balance of physical fitness, discipline, leadership, and the willingness to potentially be in danger. It's definitely not a decision to be made lightly.
I should note that these are only general observations. You should consider contacting a recruiter to discuss your personal circumstances, goals, and interest in specific military branches. They can provide you with the most current and relevant information.
I hope this provides some helpful clarity!
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