Military after high school or college -- which is the best choice?

So, I'm a bit confused on what path to take after high school. I'm considering both going to college and joining the military. How do you decide which path is best? Pros and cons of both routes? Any insight would be helpful.

Understanding the best path for you post-high school, be it joining the military or going to college, often depends on your personal goals, interests, and professional ambitions. Let's consider some potential pros and cons for both.

Joining the military after high school:

Pros:

- Early Independence: You're granted an opportunity to leave home and become independent at a much earlier stage.

- Skills and Training: The military offers opportunities to learn a variety of skills, both technical and interpersonal, that can be useful in many careers.

- GI Bill: If you decide to pursue higher education after your service, the military provides education benefits which could cover a significant portion of your college expenses.

- Immediate Employment: Upon joining, you don't have to worry about job searches or unemployment.

Cons:

- Risk: Military service inherently carries risk and can put you in harm's way.

- Delayed Education: If you're intent on earning a degree, joining the military could delay that process.

- Less Freedom: The military has strict rules and guidelines, which might limit your freedom and flexibility.

Going to college after high school:

Pros:

- Variety of Study Options: You have the chance to explore different fields of study and discover what you're passionate about.

- Personal Growth: College encourages intellectual curiosity and personal growth through exposure to a diverse range of thoughts, ideas, and cultures.

- Increased Earning Potential: On average, college graduates earn more over their lifetimes than those with just a high school diploma.

Cons:

- Cost: College can be expensive, and you may have to take on student loans.

- Uncertain Job Market: A degree does not guarantee a job, so there is some degree of uncertainty especially in certain areas of study.

In the end, the right choice for you will depend on your own aspirations, risk tolerance, and personal and financial circumstances. It's essential to gather as much information as possible and perhaps speak with professionals in the fields you’re interested in or people who have taken both paths, to get a clearer picture of what would be best for you.