Balancing Military Service with a College Degree

Hello everyone! I'm looking into possibilities for my future, and I was wondering how feasible it is to do both military service and attain a college degree. Has anyone here done both? Is it manageable?

Certainly, balancing military service with a college degree is achievable! Many service members successfully do this and benefit from the unique challenges and experiences that come with it. So, while it can have its challenges, it can provide you with a plethora of skills and benefits that can enhance your personal growth, leadership capabilities, and working experience.

One route to consider is the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program offered in many colleges across the country. This can be an excellent opportunity if you're sure about your intent to join the military. It allows you to combine your college education with military training. You'll take military science classes alongside your chosen major, and upon graduation, you'll enter the military as a commissioned officer.

There are also educational benefits provided by the military to help you attain your college degree. Programs like Tuition Assistance and the Post 9/11 GI Bill can help cover the costs of tuition, and even housing in some cases.

Lastly, there is also the option to serve as a reservist while attending college full-time. You'll be required to train one weekend a month and two weeks a year, which can work well around a typical academic calendar. This way, you're gaining both military experience and a college education simultaneously.

In summary, yes, balancing military service with acquiring a degree is not only possible but also can provide you with a unique set of experiences and benefits that can serve you well in the future.