Pros and Cons of Getting a College Degree Before Joining the Military

Hey everyone, I'm fairly split on whether I should get a college degree before enlisting in the military or just go straight in after graduation. Could I get some insights on the pros and cons of each path? Do college grads get any benefits if they join the military after completing their degree?

Sure, let's go over some potential benefits and drawbacks of getting a college degree before enlisting in the military.

Pros of Getting a College Degree First:

1. Higher Rank: College graduates typically enlist as officers, which is a higher rank than those who enlist straight out of high school. This often comes with a higher salary as well.

2. Skills and Knowledge: Depending on your field of study, you may gain useful skills and knowledge that can be applicable in many military roles. For example, a degree in engineering could prepare you well for certain technical roles within the military.

3. Broader Opportunities: The skills you gain from college can open up more opportunities within the military. They could also be helpful if you decide to leave the military and need to find civilian employment

Cons of Getting a College Degree First:

1. Time: It takes at least four years to earn a bachelor's degree. If you're eager to join the military immediately, this could be a significant delay.

2. Debt: College can be expensive, and you may end up with student loan debt. The military does offer some tuition assistance programs, but these aren't guaranteed and often come with certain commitments.

Pros of Enlisting Right After High School:

1. Gaining Experience Early: The sooner you enlist, the sooner you'll be gaining valuable experience, training, and potentially moving up the ranks.

2. Educational Opportunities: The military does offer opportunities to further your education while serving, such as tuition assistance programs and the GI Bill. This could potentially allow you to earn your degree without the high cost of traditional college.

Cons of Enlisting Right After High School:

1. Limited Opportunities: Without a college degree, you may not be eligible for certain positions within the military.

2. Balancing Priorities: If you decide to pursue a degree while serving, it can be challenging to juggle military service, college courses, and personal life, especially if you are deployed.

In the end, the decision will depend on your personal and career goals. There's no one-size-fits-all answer here. Speak with a military recruiter and a college counselor to get a better understanding of what each path could offer based on your unique circumstances.