College Before Military – Yay or Nay?

I'm considering joining the military after college, but it got me thinking. Why do some people suggest getting a college degree before joining the military? Is there a significant advantage in doing so?

There are certainly beneficial aspects to obtaining a college degree before joining the military. One biggest advantage lies in the potential for enhanced career opportunities within the military hierarchy.

1. Officership: If you have a Bachelor's degree, you're eligible to become an officer in the military. Officers generally have more leadership responsibilities, a higher pay scale, and, in some respects, more career satisfaction compared to enlisted personnel. In contrast, enlisted personnel typically involve in hands-on work and carry out most of the technical jobs. So, essentially, having a degree can provide you a quicker route to leadership positions.

2. Higher-Level Job Opportunities: A degree can open doors to more specialized roles that require higher education, such as medical, engineering, or intelligence roles. Such opportunities often come with additional benefits, including further training and development, career progression, and, as mentioned, better pay.

3. Skill Transfer: The skills and knowledge acquired during your college may provide transferable skills which can be beneficial in your military career. This stands true especially for degrees in fields like engineering, medicine, communications, and cybersecurity which directly correlate to a military career field.

4. Personal Growth: College can also be a time for personal growth, developing critical thinking skills, and expanding one's worldview, all of which are valuable in any career, including the military.

However, this isn't to say it's the only or the best route for everyone. Many successful military careers have begun straight out of high school, and the military offers many educational opportunities independently. Moreover, joining the military before college could mean having the military cover your future tuition costs completely or partially, depending on the branch and your service contract.

Therefore, the decision to attend college before joining the military ultimately depends on your personal goals, financial circumstances, and career aspirations. It's important to weigh these factors carefully while making the decision.