Hey there, folks! I've been thinking about joining the military after high school but I also want to get a college education. I've heard it can be beneficial for people in the military to go to college, but I'm not sure why. Can someone elaborate on why it's good for military members to get a college degree?
Hi there! It's true that getting a college education can be very beneficial for military personnel.
Firstly, a college education often leads to advancement opportunities in the military. In many branches of the military, completing a degree program could qualify you for officer training school and positions that require a degree. This could lead to a higher salary and greater responsibility.
Secondly, the U.S. military offers several programs that help its members pay for their education, the Post-9/11 GI Bill being one of the most well-known. This benefit can cover the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at public colleges for up to 36 months (or around four academic years). It can also provide a significant amount towards the cost of private or out-of-state schools.
Additionally, the skills and knowledge you gain in college can complement your military training well. Degrees in fields such as engineering, computer science, or international relations, for example, can be extremely useful in military roles, and bring a depth of understanding that you might not get from military training alone.
Beyond that, the chance to gain a broader worldview, improve critical thinking skills, and increase cultural competency can all be valuable assets in the military and beyond. College also challenges students to become more self-disciplined and organized—traits that are certainly useful in a military context.
Finally, remember that military service isn't forever. Most service members eventually transition to civilian careers, and having a college degree can greatly ease this transition. College graduates tend to have more career opportunities and higher pay in civilian jobs, so your degree could continue to benefit you long after your military service ends.
So, there are indeed many benefits for military personnel to get a college degree, even if it might seem challenging to pursue.
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