What's life like as a soldier?

I'm considering joining the military after high school but want to know more about what being a soldier involves day-to-day. What are the main duties, and what should I prepare for if I decide to enlist?

The life of a soldier can vary significantly based on several factors including the branch of the military you join, your specific role, and whether you are stationed domestically or overseas. However, there are some typical experiences and duties that many soldiers tend to share.

Firstly, your day-to-day routine is usually very structured. Most soldiers start their day early with physical training, which is a central part of military life. Throughout the rest of your day, duties can range from participating in skills training exercises or technical training for your designated job, attending meetings, performing maintenance tasks, or doing administrative work. The goal is to develop a high level of discipline, fitness, and expertise in your specific military role.

Secondly, regardless of your specific role, being a soldier typically requires living and working in close quarters with others, which can build strong camaraderie but can also require some adjustments in terms of privacy and personal space. You're often required to work long hours and, depending on your duties, you could be on call 24/7, which can be both physically and mentally demanding.

Thirdly, you should be prepared for times of separation from family and friends, particularly if you are deployed overseas. Deployments can last from a few months to over a year. During this time, communication with loved ones can be challenging and you may have to deal with extreme conditions, from desert heat to Arctic cold, depending on where you're stationed.

Finally, you should expect a culture of respect for hierarchy and obedience. Soldiers are expected to follow orders promptly and without hesitation. This can be a big adjustment if you’re used to asking a lot of questions or challenging authority.

Despite the challenges, being a soldier can also offer unrivaled job security, a clear career path, benefits such as healthcare and retirement, plus opportunities for skills training and even higher education.

However, you should consider thoroughly researching and speaking with active-duty soldiers and veterans to get a firsthand account of what life is like in the military. It might also be beneficial to talk to a recruiter to understand more about the opportunities and challenges associated with your specific interests and aspirations within the military.