Studying in college while in the military?

Hey folks, I'm considering serving in the military while also attending college. I just have so many questions right now. Mainly, is it possible to attend college while actively serving? How do people typically balance these responsibilities?

Yes, it's absolutely possible to pursue higher education while actively serving in the military. The reality, however, is that balancing both these commitments does require a significant amount of discipline, organization, and time management, although many servicemen and servicewomen successfully do it.

Many military personnel consider online or remote learning options that offer a lot of flexibility. Since classes can often be done on your own schedule, this is a popular option for those whose military commitments may not align with a traditional class schedule.

Depending on your branch of service, there are numerous programs designed to assist active-duty military personnel with their education goals. For example, the Air Force has the AU-ABC program that partners with colleges to provide online bachelor's degree programs, while the Navy has the NCPACE program that offers both academic and vocational courses.

Moreover, the military offers several assistance programs like the Tuition Assistance program (TA), which can pay up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. There are also scholarships and grants specifically for service members (like the Post-9/11 GI bill) to help cover tuition costs.

In terms of balancing responsibilities, developing a time management plan can be helpful. This might include carving out specific time slots for studying, attending online lectures or assignments. Also, acknowledging that flexibility will be key to accommodate for periods of high military demand, like deployments or field exercises.

Remember to take advantage of the resources the military often provides - like free tutoring, academic counseling, and support groups. It's also advisable to keep your commanding officer informed about your educational pursuits. They can provide support, understanding, and potentially flexibility around your exam times.

If you take advantage of these resources and programs geared towards helping military members in their academics, you can definitely manage both military service and college studies. Don't hesitate to ask for help whenever needed, and remember to take care of your mental and physical health. Good luck!