Differences between young and older military enlistees

What are some notable differences between younger and older people who enlist in the military? I'm trying to figure out whether enlisting straight out of high school or waiting a few years would make a difference.

There are indeed some variations between younger and older enlistees in the military and these can affect several aspects such as one's military service experience, and post-military career growth.

For younger individuals who enlist immediately after high school, they are typically considered more impressionable, making them easier to adapt to the disciplined lifestyle and regimented routine in the military. Furthermore, younger enlistees are often more physically resilient, an aspect that can aid their performance during basic training and other physically demanding aspects of service. Moreover, they can benefit from the military's educational opportunities, including scholarship programs, while building a career path within the military early on in life.

However, older enlistees, particularly those who have completed college or have had several years of work experience, bring a more mature perspective to their service. They may have stronger leadership abilities due to their life experiences, which can aid their advancement in the ranks. Moreover, older enlistees oftentimes have a clearer know-how of what they want to gain from their military experience, such as specific technical skills or leadership experience.

Considering the option of waiting a few years to enlist, there's an advantage in gaining some life and work experience before committing to the military. In particular, for those who want to pursue officer roles, having a college degree is typically required.

Remember, the military has age cutoffs for enlistment, so you would need to make your decision within these limits. Your decision should thoroughly consider your personal circumstances, career aspirations, and readiness for the commitment that military service entails. It might also be helpful to talk to both young and older servicemen and women about their experiences to get a firsthand account.