Community college before military, yay or nay?

Hi everyone, looking for some input. I'm debating if I should go to a community college before considering a path in military. Would this be a useful stepping stone or should I just enlist right after high school? Any advice would be much appreciated!

It seems you're juggling between military service and higher education, which is a common debate for many students. There's no definitive answer as to whether you should attend college before enlisting, as it depends greatly on your personal goals and aspirations.

One advantage of attending community college before enlistment is that you can earn college credits and even complete a degree, which can be beneficial in the military. For instance, some roles in the military may require a certain level of education, and progressing through the ranks could be easier with a higher level of education. Community college can also help develop your understanding of various subjects and work on your communication and critical thinking skills, all of which can be useful in your military service.

On the other hand, joining the military straight out of high school allows you to gain work experience, learn important life and professional skills, and receive benefits such as tuition assistance for future college courses. You'd start earning a salary right away and the military can even pay for your education through options like the GI Bill if you decide to pursue college later.

So, your decision will largely rely on what you hope to gain out of both experiences and your long-term goals. For example, if you want to eventually work in a military role that requires a degree or plans to move into a civilian career that requires specific college credentials, starting at a community college would be beneficial. But if you're eager to start your career ASAP and earn while learning, you might opt to enlist right after high school, and consider college later with the educational benefits you receive.

Remember, you can always go to college after serving in the military. Many veterans do this and find it suits their lifestyles and career goals perfectly. But the reverse - joining the military after college - is also a popular path. Don't hesitate to reach out to a military recruiter and your high school counselor to discuss your options. Best of luck!