Life after college for military students?

Hello there! I'm heading to college this fall, but I'm also considering joining the military after graduation. I wonder if anyone could provide some insights into the life and career paths after college for those who decided to serve. What should I expect? What opportunities will I have?

Hello! Pleasure to chime in on this topic. Now, your career and overall life following military service can vary significantly depending on the branch of the military you join, your MOS (military occupational specialty), the length of your service, and a host of other factors.

Generally speaking, though, veterans leave the military with highly valuable and marketable skills. Leadership, project management, strategic planning, logistical operations, negotiation—these are just a few examples. You will be especially adept at applying these in defense and security-related industries, but they can also be transferred to a wide range of civilian sectors.

One of the other major benefits is the network you can build during your service. The camaraderie and bonds formed in the military often lead to valuable connections post-service, which can open doors to opportunities in the civilian world.

Upon leaving active duty service, you might also decide to continue your education. With the GI Bill, you can potentially earn a master’s degree or professional degree at little or no out-of-pocket expense, which would further enhance your career prospects.

Lastly, many companies are particularly dedicated to hiring veterans, as they recognize the unique skills and experiences they bring. Lockheed Martin, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Northrop Grumman are just a few defense contractors often associated with veteran hiring. But many other private-sector companies in fields like technology, finance, healthcare, and more also have initiatives focused on hiring veterans.

The possibilities are vast, and much will depend on your interests, skills, and the specifics of your military service. You have a lot of paths to choose from, so it's great that you're already evaluating them! I wish you the best of luck in your college experience and beyond, no matter which path you choose!