Facing the College or Military Ultimatum

My parents have given me this ultimatum: It's either I go to college or I join the military. I'm really torn between the two, because both paths appeal to me in different ways. How did you guys make a decision in similar situations, and any advice on how to make mine?

You've gotten into a challenging but not uncommon situation -- deciding between college and the military is a crossroads many high school graduates face. To help with your decision, you might want to start by identifying what appeals to you about each path and consider the long-term implications of either decision.

With college, you get the chance to continue your formal education in a specific field of study, expand your knowledge, and increase your chances of landing a higher-paying job after graduation. The college experience can also provide significant personal growth, including exposure to diverse ideas, people and experiences, and opportunities to build networks that can serve you well in the future. However, keep in mind that college can be expensive, and pursuing a degree could potentially leave you with significant student debt.

On the other hand, joining the military provides a clear career path right out of high school, offers vocational training, pays a steady salary, and comes with benefits such as healthcare and the potential for tuition assistance or debt forgiveness if you decide to pursue further education later on. It also offers an opportunity to serve your country, and provides structured discipline and a strong sense of camaraderie not found in most other careers. The military lifestyle, however, does come with its own challenges, such as being away from family and friends for long periods of time, physically demanding training, and the potential of being in dangerous situations.

Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal interests and long-term goals. Consider speaking to people who have experience in both fields. Reach out to college students or recent graduates, or military personnel who can give first-hand advice. Keep in touch with your school counselor and take advantage of career-planning resources. If possible, consider working or volunteering in your area of interest this summer to get some hands-on experience to inform your decision.

Remember, this decision doesn't have to be a binding, lifetime commitment. Many start college and later enter the military, or vice versa. The choice you make now is a step into your future, not necessarily the final destination.