Finding a Job in the Military?

I'm seriously considering enlisting in the military right after high school. What are the steps to find and secure a job within the military? Are there critical prerequisites or tests that I should start thinking about now?

Joining the military often involves several steps and it's great you're already thinking about what to do:

1. Research Possibilities: Start by researching to understand the different branches of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force) and the types of roles available. This could include critical combat roles or supportive roles like logistics, administration, medical, or technical jobs.

2. Meet with a Recruiter: After you have a sense of where you might want to go, you can meet with a recruiter who can give you more information, answer your questions, and guide you through the process.

3. Choose a Job (Military Occupational Specialty): When you enlist, you'll typically select a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). This is essentially your job within the military. Every branch has hundreds of different MOSs covering a wide range of skills and duties.

4. ASVAB Test: You'll need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a multiple-choice test that helps determine your eligibility for enlistment and can influence the jobs you qualify for. It measures your knowledge in areas like mathematics, science, and verbal and technical skills. Consider studying for this test to enhance your scores and expand your job opportunities within the military.

5. Medical Examination: You'll also need to pass a thorough medical exam to ensure you're physically and mentally fit for military service.

6. Enlistment: Once you've passed the ASVAB test and medical exam, you'll sign your contract, which typically includes a commitment to serve for a certain number of years of active duty, plus some years in the Reserve.

Remember this is a big decision and it's important to think through the commitment thoroughly. Contacting a recruiter, or even multiple recruiters from different branches, can be a very effective way to get information tailored to your specific situation. They can help you understand the time commitment, job opportunities, pay, benefits, and more.