Hey guys, I'm a high school junior trying to map out my future. The military has always been on my radar, but I also want to go to college. Is it feasible or even common to serve first then pursue a higher education afterwards? Any benefits or downsides to this?
Absolutely, it's feasible and quite common for individuals to serve in the military before pursuing higher education. There are several benefits and potential downsides to consider.
Benefits:
One of the key benefits of serving in the military before college is the financial advantage. The GI Bill can cover a significant portion, if not all, of your college tuition, dependent on your length and type of service. This can alleviate the financial burden of college and reduce or eliminate the need for student loans.
Moreover, serving first provides maturity, life experience, and a unique perspective that can enrich your college experience. This experience can also help you stand out in your college application, as you will have skills, like leadership and discipline, that colleges appreciate.
Downsides:
On the other hand, transitioning from military life to college life can be challenging. The environments can be vastly different, which might require an adjustment period.
Also, if you serve first, you'll be older than most of your college classmates. While this isn't necessarily a disadvantage, it can affect the social dynamic and your ability to relate to younger students.
There's also the consideration of how long you want to put off your higher education. Depending on the branch of service and your commitment level, you could be looking at several years in the military before you start college. If there are career fields you're interested in that require a degree, this could delay your entry into those fields.
Remember, this is a highly personal decision and ultimately depends on what you want out of your future. Take the time to weigh your options and consider speaking to a military recruiter to get more detailed information.
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