Exploring Life Post-College After the Military

Hey folks, I plan to enlist after graduating, eventually returning to civilian life post-service. However, I'd like to go to college after I've served. Does anyone have any experiences or advice for transitioning from the military to college life and beyond?

Absolutely, plenty of military personnel pursue higher education after their time in service. It's not unusual and colleges actually appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences that service members bring to campus. Here are some things to consider:

1. Research Veteran-friendly Schools: Some schools have dedicated resources or programs for military and veteran students and may offer you the support needed for a smooth transition. Attending a veteran-friendly school can mean a more supportive community, military or veteran-specific advising, counseling services, and possibly a more generous financial aid package.

2. Take Advantage of the GI Bill: The Post-9/11 GI Bill is often leveraged by military personnel to pay for education after their service. It provides up to 100% of your tuition and fees, depending on your length of active service. It may also pay for housing, training, and textbooks. Other programs like the Yellow Ribbon Program provide financial support above the GI Bill limits at some schools. Maximizing the use of these benefits can significantly decrease your college expenses.

3. Academic Preparation: Depending on how much time you spend in service, you may have been out of a classroom environment for a while. Consider taking refresher courses or attending a community college first to readjust to academic life. This could be a great way to hone your study habits, get familiar with current teaching methods, and ease into a full-time college course load.

4. Career Planning: Think about how your military experience and intended college degree might complement each other in your prospective career. Depending on your specialty in the military, that could provide a pathway to a related degree. For example, if you were involved in medical care in the military, perhaps a degree in healthcare administration or nursing may be a good fit. Similarly, if you handled logistics in the military, consider majoring in business with a concentration in supply chain management.

Overall, transitioning from military life to college can have its challenges but with the right support and preparation, it can become an empowering journey. It's never too early to start planning or too late to learn. Best of luck with your decisions!