Hey everyone, I've been pondering about joining the military after high school. I've heard there are many pros, like developing discipline and getting an education. Yet, there could also be cons like potential safety risks and being far from home. Just wondering if anyone has any advice on how to weigh these reasons or any thoughts on the good and bad aspects of military service?
In assessing the pros and cons of military service, it often helps to consider your personal goals, comfort levels, and desired life trajectory.
For the pros, you've mentioned a few key ones, and there are others worth considering. Besides developing discipline and getting an education, the military offers opportunities for leadership training, life experience, and the chance to serve your country. There are also tangible benefits like veterans' benefits, paid housing, and potential career advancement. The brotherhood and camarity among servicemembers can also lead to lifelong friendships.
On the cons side, it's true that safety risks are inherent in military service, especially if you're deployed. During times of conflict, this reality becomes more pronounced. Separation from family and friends, potential impact on physical and mental health, and the possibility of limited control over your life decisions (due to the structured nature of military service) are also factors to consider. The military is a serious commitment, and it can be demanding both physically and emotionally.
It’s important to have a thorough go-through with a recruiter to understand the commitment you're considering. Don't forget to reach out to veterans or currently serving military members for their perspective too. There's no one-size-fits-all answer as to whether the military is a good choice. Some people find it a rich and rewarding path, while others might find it restrictive or overwhelming. It's a deeply personal decision, one worth considering from all angles.
If you're interested in the discipline and structure of the military but are unsure about committing, some colleges offer Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs, which allow you to pursue a college education while receiving military training. However, this option typically involves a service commitment after graduation, so the same considerations would apply.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.