Out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark figure of how many enlisted military personnel actually hold college degrees? I'm trying to weigh my options between enlisting straight out of high school and pursuing a degree first.
The exact number can vary year-to-year, but according to data from the Department of Defense, as of 2019, about 18% of enlisted military personnel held a bachelor's degree or higher. This figure encompasses all branches of the military.
It's important to note that enlisting with a degree can have certain advantages. In some cases, it can result in starting at a higher pay grade. For example, in the Army, enlisted soldiers with a Bachelor's degree start at E-4 (Specialist) instead of E-1. However, obtaining a degree might also open the door to officer positions, which have more leadership responsibilities and higher pay.
Alternatively, the military offers several programs that could help you earn a degree while you're enlisted, such as the post-911 GI Bill and Tuition Assistance Program. These programs provide financial aid for either in-service or post-service education.
Ultimately, the decision between enlisting immediately or pursuing a degree first depends on your personal circumstances, goals, and priorities. It's important to gather as much information about your different options before making a choice. If you're interested in a specific branch, you could talk to a recruiter, current enlisted members, or veterans to understand more about their experiences. This could provide valuable insights into the best strategy that aligns with your goals.
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