Postgrad Military Options for High Schoolers

Hi, so I'm currently a junior and have been considering military service after graduation. Does anyone have info on what options are available for high school graduates in terms of the military?

Sure, there are several paths you can consider if you're thinking about entering the military after high school.

One direct route is to enlist right after you graduate. In this capacity, you'll undergo basic training, and then receive more specialized training for a specific job, called a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in the Army and Marine Corps, Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) in the Air Force, or rating in the Navy.

If you're interested in becoming an officer, attending a service academy such as the U.S. Military Academy at West Point or the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis could be an option. These institutions provide a full-ride scholarship in exchange for a commitment of a minimum of five years of active-duty service upon graduation.

You can also enroll in a college or university and participate in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program, which also provides scholarships in exchange for a service commitment. This program offers both full and partial scholarships in exchange for service commitments post-graduation.

If you're interested in these paths but still want some civilian experience before committing, there is the option of joining the reserves or national guard. These service members often have civilian jobs or attend school while fulfilling their military duties on the weekends and during training periods.

Finally, there are also specific vocational/technical programs through military service branches. For example, the Marine Corps' Vocation, Educational, and Technical Assistance (VETA) Program helps enlisted Marines gain the skills they need to succeed in high-demand fields.

All these options offer unique benefits, from tuition assistance and career training to a sense of mission and camaraderie. Be sure to do additional research and consult with a recruitment officer to determine the best fit for your personal goals and circumstances.