Going to College prior to Military Enlistment

I have been trying to weigh my options between going straight to the military or going to college first. What points should I consider to make an informed decision? Any thoughts on this?

This is a thoughtful question, and the answer will largely depend on your long-term aspirations. Broadly speaking, here are some factors you might want to consider:

1. Education opportunities: Both paths can lead to a college degree. A military enlistment can offer opportunities such as the G.I. Bill to support your education post-service, while attending college first allows you to immediately pursue your degree. Additionally, if you are interested in officer positions, most require a bachelor's degree.

2. Military rank: Enlisting after college opens up an opportunity to join the military as an officer, which typically provides better pay and more responsibility. Joining straight after high school usually means starting as an enlisted service member, which has a different career progression.

3. Career plans: Your longer-term plans matter. If you're interested in a career field that aligns with military occupational specialties, enlisting first could give valuable experience. If you're drawn to a field outside the military's scope, it might make sense to head to college first.

4. Financial considerations: College can be expensive, and student loans are a cause of stress for many. The military can offer a steady income and benefits from the onset, along with the aforementioned education opportunities.

5. Physical and mental readiness: The military can be physically and emotionally demanding. Some people might be ready for that challenge straight out of high school, while others might need the personal growth and maturity that college can foster.

6. Your personal timeline: If you're itching to serve your country immediately, enlisting out of high school might be the right move. But if you want to enjoy the traditional college experience, attend college first.

Remember that this isn't an either-or situation. Many people attend college and then join the military, while others enlist first and then go to college during or after military service. Be sure to speak to people who have taken both paths to get their perspective, and consider consulting a military recruiter or college counsellor to better understand your options and what would be best for your specific situation.