Pros and Cons of doing college first, then military?

Hi! I'm a junior and lately, I've been deliberating over my after-high school options. I'd like to both pursue a degree and join the military at some point. If I were to complete college first and then enlist, are there any substantial advantages or drawbacks to this path?

Certainly, enlisting in the military after completing college can present its own unique set of advantages and potential drawbacks. Here, I'll provide you with some points to consider:

Advantages:

1. Officer Status: One of the key advantages of enlisting in the military after completing your bachelor's degree is that you could potentially join as a commissioned officer. Officers typically earn higher pay and have more leadership responsibilities compared to enlisted personnel.

2. Specialized Roles: With a degree, you might qualify for more specialized roles within the military, which might align more closely with your long-term career goals.

3. Civilian Job Opportunities: Having a degree before you enter the military could also potentially improve your job prospects if you decide to return to civilian life after your military service.

Drawbacks:

1. Delayed Enrollment: Pursuing a four-year degree first would delay your entry into the military.

2. College Costs: College tuition can be a significant financial burden. Although some military programs offer to repay student loans or provide education benefits, not all do, and there could still be out-of-pocket costs.

3. Potential for Over-Qualification: Depending on your degree, you might find yourself "overqualified" for some enlisted positions, and it could be frustrating to have skills and knowledge you aren't able to utilize to their full extent.

4. Missed Military Opportunities: By pursuing college first, you might miss out on specific opportunities within the military. For example, certain enlistment bonuses, fast-track programs, and other perks might only be available to you straight out of high school.

Keep in mind these are general points. Your personal experience will depend on various factors, including your specific field of study, the branch of the military you're interested in, and your long-term goals. It might be beneficial to speak with a military recruitment officer or a career adviser about your options to get a clearer picture of your path.