Order of College and Military - Which Comes First?

Super confused about what would be the most advantageous, should I join the military before or after I complete my college degree? What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of both paths? Anything you guys could provide would be really helpful here.

Deciding to join the military before or after college is a personal decision that should take into account your own career goals, educational aspirations, financial situation, and other life circumstances. Here's a brief overview of the potential benefits and drawbacks for each path:

Joining the Military Before College:

Benefits:

1. Financial: The military often provides benefits that can cover the cost of college education later on (such as the G.I. Bill), which can minimize your student debt.

2. Personal Growth: Serving in the military can provide you with valuable life experiences and transferable skills, such as leadership ability, discipline, and teamwork.

3. Career Direction: The military can offer you training in a broad array of fields and this could help clarify what you might want to study in college.

Drawbacks:

1. Delayed Education: Enlisting first may delay your college education. By the time you enter college, you may be older than your classmates.

2. Transitioning Challenges: Transitioning from a strict military regimen to a more self-directed college lifestyle can be challenging.

Joining the Military After College:

Benefits:

1. Officer Rank: With a college degree, you could potentially enter the military at an officer rank, instead of starting from the bottom.

2. Career Preparation: Your college studies might prepare you better for certain military roles, especially if you are interested in serving in technical or specialist fields.

Drawbacks:

1. Financial: Unless you have a scholarship or other aids, you may have to take on student loans to pay for your education.

2. Opportunity Cost: The time you spend in college could instead be spent gaining professional and life experience in the military.

Both paths have their own pros and cons and there is no one-size-fits-all answer here. It could also be useful to speak with a military recruiter or a college counselor to get a more personalized advice based on your circumstances. You could also reach out to veterans who chose both paths to gain a first-hand account of their experiences. Remember, the decision should ultimately align with your personal and career goals.