Balancing College and Military Service - Possible?

I'm considering both going to college and joining the military after I graduate. Is it possible to do both at the same time? Has anyone done this or know someone who did? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Yes, it's absolutely possible to balance both college and military service, and many individuals successfully do so! There are various pathways to achieve this.

1. Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC): This is a college program available at many universities across the United States. Through ROTC, you'll take military science classes along with your regular college coursework, and complete leadership training during your breaks. Upon graduation, you'll commission as an officer in the Armed Forces. Each branch has its own ROTC: theres's Army ROTC, Navy ROTC (which also commissions Marine Officers), and Air Force ROTC.

2. Military Academies: Institutions such as the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, and U.S. Military Academy at West Point are four-year accredited universities where students receive a full scholarship and graduate with a commission as an officer in their respective branch.

3. Simultaneously Enlisting and Attending College: You can enlist in the military reserves or the National Guard while attending college. You'll typically do basic training over the summer, then return to college while performing drills one weekend per month and two weeks per summer. Keep in mind this can be a bit demanding and requires excellent time management skills.

If you're considering this path, speak to a recruiter for more information and explore your college's options for military science classes or ROTC. Additionally, talk to any veterans you may know at your college as they can provide valuable insight into balancing these two commitments.