How to Become a Military Strategist

What steps should a high school student interested in becoming a military strategist take? Are there specific colleges or programs that are recommended, or is it more about gaining experience after enlisting or commissioning?

Being a military strategist, often termed in the field as a military officer specializing in strategic planning, entails several steps from your high school years onward.

1. Education: Begin by focusing on your high school subjects, particularly history, math, and English. A strong basis in these areas will prepare you for future studies and enhance your strategic thinking abilities. History can give you a better understanding of past military activities; math can help with logistics planning; and English can improve your communication skills, which are essential in the military.

2. Physical Fitness: Military careers come with physical entry requirements. Stay fit and aim to perform well at sports or physical education in school.

3. Leadership Experience: Enhance your leadership skills by engaging in leadership roles in school clubs, sports, or extracurricular activities. This will teach you how to manage groups and make decisions under pressure.

4. College Education: While not strictly necessary, having a degree can open more opportunities for you in the military, specifically for officer positions. Look at colleges with strong ROTC programs. For military science and strategic planning, schools like the United States Military Academy (West Point), the United States Naval Academy, and the United States Air Force Academy are recommended. These schools offer in-depth study of military history, theory, and science, along with leadership training.

5. ROTC Program: Enrolling in a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program during your college years can provide a valuable training ground. ROTC offers scholarships, so it's worth considering, especially if you're planning on committing to the military afterward.

6. Enlisting or Commissioning: Following your education, you will need to either enlist in the military or receive a commission as an officer. The latter will require a degree, and typically have a more direct route to strategic planning roles.

7. Further Education and Experience: Once you are in the military, you will need to gain a substantial amount of experience before moving into strategic planning. This usually involves years of service and specialty training. Many military strategists also have advanced degrees in fields like military history, strategic studies, or international relations.

Remember that joining the military is not just a career choice, but a commitment, often involving personal sacrifice and disciplined lifestyle. Make sure to do thorough research, talk with military professionals, and assess your own personal goals before making your decision. Good luck!