Balancing Military Service with Higher Ed: How can you go to college while in the military?

I'm a junior strongly considering military service after high school, but I also want to pursue higher education. Is there a way I could potentially do both? Can you actually attend college while you're in the military, and if so, how does that work? Should I be considering certain types of colleges or programs?

Absolutely, you can pursue higher education while serving in the military and there are several paths to do this.

1. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC): This is a college-based program for training commissioned officers of the United States Armed Forces. Participants attend college like other students but also receive basic military training and officer training for their chosen branch of service through the ROTC unit at or nearby the college. ROTC scholarships might also be available which can help alleviate the cost of your education. After graduation, you're required to fulfill a service commitment in your respective branch of service.

2. Military Academies: Another route is through one of the U.S. service academies like the U.S. Naval Academy or the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. These programs are very competitive but also very rewarding. They give students a rigorous education combined with military service obligations upon graduation.

3. Services' Tuition Assistance Programs: If you're active duty or in the reserves, many branches of the military offer tuition assistance programs. These can cover up to 100% of tuition expenses and come with minimum service commitments.

4. Enrolling as a Part-time Student: You could also consider enrolling in college part-time while fulfilling your service commitments. Many colleges and universities offer online coursework, night classes, or other flexible scheduling options which might suit your needs if you have to balance military commitments.

5. When you complete your service, you could also use the benefits of the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, which can cover up to 100% of your tuition as well as housing and books for up to 36 months at public universities (for those who have served at least 3 years), and has similar benefits for private or international schools.

In terms of selecting a certain college or program, one helpful resource is the Department of Defense's "DOD VolEd" program which can guide you to "military friendly" higher education institutions. These colleges and universities might offer special accommodations for service members such as course withdrawal options if you're deployed midway through a semester, credit for military experience, or special advisors for military students.

Ultimately, it's about finding the best fit for you - academically, financially, and in terms of your military commitment. It's possible to serve your country and earn your degree, and there are numerous paths to make that happen.