How to Choose a Military College?

Hey, so I've been thinking about maybe joining a military college post-high school. Specifically interested in the Navy. Has anyone here done something similar? How did you go about selecting the college? Also, what are the particular points I should be considering in the selection process?

Choosing a military college is an impactful decision and it involves several factors. For someone specifically interested in the Navy, the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) would be a natural consideration. However, the federal service academies are extremely competitive and admission is not guaranteed. That being said, ROTC programs at civilian colleges and universities are also excellent paths to commissioning. Things you'll want to take into account include:

1. Academics: Look into the variety and strength of the academic programs offered. Make sure the military college or ROTC college has good programs in your areas of interest. While you'll be receiving a military education, you won't want to sacrifice the quality of academic studies.

2. Military Training: The level of military training and its integration into the regular academic schedule can vary among institutions. Some offer intensive and immersive military lifestyle experiences, while others blend military training with aspects of traditional college life.

3. Physical Fitness: Rigorous physical training is a central component of military education, and each service academy and ROTC program has its own fitness tests and health requirements. Be sure you're aware of these and prepared to meet them.

4. Financial Considerations: The Federal Service Academies provide a full scholarship to all students, while ROTC scholarships vary in their coverage of tuition, fees, and other costs. Look into the specifics of what each program would offer you.

5. Career goals: Already having a preference for the Navy is a good start as you'll want to consider which branch of the military aligns best with your long-term career goals.

6. Size and Location: As with any college decision, you'll want to consider the size of the school and its location. Would you prefer to be in a large program with hundreds of cadets, or a smaller one where you might know everyone? Do you want to be close to home or are you looking to experience a new region?

Remember to also reach out to current students or alumni from the institutions you're interested in. They can give invaluable "insider" perspectives.

Choosing a military college is not just about receiving an education; it's also about preparing for life as a military officer. It's a commitment, but it can be highly rewarding if you're passionate about serving your country. Best of luck with your decision!