Understanding Worth and Personal Growth in the Military

Venting a bit here...already stressed by college applications and other life stuff, but I'm also considering military as a potential path. I'm worried about 'wasting' my life in the military. Any experiences or knowledge to share on how service can offer personal growth?

Taking the path of military service is indeed a major decision that can deeply affect your life in various ways. While some might preface it as a 'waste of time', in reality, many find it a path of immense personal growth. It might help to understand it from two perspectives: personal character development and professional skill acquisition.

For personal character development, the military provides a unique environment that cultivates qualities like resilience, discipline, adaptability, and leadership. These skills can be invaluable in any career or even in personal life situations, improving your ability to approach and solve problems, manage time efficiently, and work within a team. As a service member, you'll have opportunities to face challenges and overcome them, building your capacity to deal with adversity and preparing you for a wide range of future scenarios.

On the professional side, the military also provides a host of training in various fields. Depending on the branch and your assigned role, you might get experience in areas ranging from logistics to cybersecurity. The practical skills and insights gained from these learning experiences can be beneficial for your post-military career. Additionally, the military also provides programs designed to assist servicemembers in obtaining a college education and transitioning to civilian careers.

Ultimately, whether the military offers personal growth will depend on your attitude, your goals, and what you make of the opportunities given to you. As with any significant decision, it can be helpful to reach out to current or former servicemembers for insights, as well as professional advisors to discuss your aspirations and concerns. It's also worth keeping in mind that military service doesn't have to be an 'either-or' decision with college; programs such as ROTC or service academies combine both military service and higher education.