How does enlisting into the military right after high school work?

Hey guys, doing senior year has me stressed out with the thought of college applications and tuition. My folks aren't super well off, and I've always had an interest in serving my country. I'm curious, if I decide to enlist in the military right after high school, what's the process? Are there specific steps that I should be aware of?

Sure, I'd be glad to provide some guidance on the process of enlisting in the military right after high school.

1. Understand the Different Branches: First things first, you should familiarize yourself with the different branches of the military: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and newly added Space Force. Each has their own mission, culture, and enlistment requirements. Take some time to research and perhaps speak to current and former servicemembers to understand which one aligns best with your interests and career goals.

2. Eligibility: Ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements. Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien, 17-42 years old (age limits vary by branch), have a high school diploma (some branches accept a GED, but a diploma is preferred), and pass a physical examination.

3. Talk to a Recruiter: Once you've determined your eligibility and have an idea of which branch you're interested in, reach out to a recruiter from that branch. You should prepare a list of questions about the enlistment process, job opportunities, benefits, etc.

4. ASVAB: One of the critical steps in the enlistment process is taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). It's a multiple-choice test used by all branches of the U.S. Military. Your scores will determine whether you're qualified to enlist in the armed forces and help pinpoint which Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) you may be suited for.

5. MEPS: After passing the ASVAB, you'll visit one of the 65 Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) for a physical examination and to swear the Oath of Enlistment. However, enlisting doesn't mean you'll immediately ship out. You'll enter the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) where you'll await your ship date for Basic Training.

6. Basic Training: Eventually, you'll leave for Basic Training (or Boot Camp), typically several weeks to a few months. This is where you learn the essentials of being a servicemember, including physical fitness, combat skills, and discipline.

Remember that military life isn't for everyone. Consider the short term and long term implications that this decision will have on your life before making a decision. It's highly recommended to speak with service members, veterans, or military family members about their experiences to get a firsthand account of what military life is really like.