Joining the military post-college

I've been looking at different paths after I finish undergrad, and one of the options I'm seriously considering is joining the military. What would be the pros and cons? Would getting a degree beforehand make any difference to the process or my rank? Would love to hear from anyone with insight on this.

Since you're considering joining the military after you complete your undergraduate studies, you're likely exploring options like becoming an officer, which typically requires a four-year college degree. This choice can indeed impact your military rank, as those who enter with a degree often start as officers. Here's a brief rundown on the pros and cons:

Pros:

1. Leadership Opportunities: Joining as an officer provides immediate leadership opportunities, which may not be as readily available in traditional job sectors, especially for recent grads.

2. Skills and Training: The military offers extensive professional development and training, which can be beneficial for future career opportunities.

3. Educational Benefits: Depending on the branch and period of service, military officers may be eligible for a range of educational benefits, including loan repayment assistance and funding for graduate study.

4. Job Stability and Benefits: The military provides a range of benefits, such as healthcare and retirement plans, that may exceed civilian sector offerings.

Cons:

1. Demanding Lifestyle: The military requires significant personal and professional sacrifices, including potential time away from family and the need to relocate periodically.

2. Physical Demands and Risks: Military service can have considerable physical demands and carries inherent risks.

3. Limited Control Over Career: Within the military, your career trajectory and tasks may be determined by the needs of the service, which can limit your control over your career path.

Having an undergraduate degree definitely provides added value as it usually leads to a higher initial rank (generally, an officer rank). It can also impact your pay grade, which is corresponding to rank, meaning you could start at a higher salary than those who join straight after high school.

Lastly, consider speaking directly with a recruiter or interviewing military personnel who transitioned post-college to get a more precise portrayal of what this path entails. Each military branch has different requirements, opportunities, and cultures, so be sure to explore all your options.