I'm stuck in deciding whether to attend community college before joining the military or vice versa. I've heard various opinions, but would love to get some direct advice or personal experiences. Can anyone help me out?
The choice between attending community college before joining the military versus the other way around is a highly personal one and can depend on many factors.
One of the key considerations could be your motivation for joining the military. If you are looking at the military as a career and want to rise up to ranks quickly, it might be a good idea to join right away as this may provide you with a sense of discipline, leadership, and other life skills that can be beneficial in any walk of life.
On the other hand, if you are considering the military to help pay for your education, you might want to join the military first. The military provides several financial assistance programs, like the Post-9/11 GI Bill or the Montgomery GI Bill, which can help pay for your college education. These programs can cover a significant portion of your education costs, including tuition, fees, books, and even provide a housing allowance in some cases.
That being said, attending community college first can help you gain some valuable academic and life experiences. You can earn an associate degree before enlisting, which can provide some advantages in the military, including potentially starting at a higher rank and pay. This might also help you if you plan on pursuing a career in the military as an officer, which often requires a four-year degree. Keep in mind that you can still take college classes while in the military too, either on base or online.
Finally, consider your personal readiness for each path. Are you prepared for the physical and emotional challenges of military life right out of high school? Or would you prefer to have some time to further develop your academic skills at a community college first? Either way, both options have unique benefits and challenges.
To make the best informed decision, you might want to reach out to your high school counselor, a community college advisor or a military recruiter for a more personalized advice. Remember to take into account your goals, timeline, and personal circumstances when making this decision.
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