Can high school students join the military?

I'm still in high school but my interest in the military has grown tremendously over the last year. Can I, being currently in high school, join the military in any capacity or initiate any form of training/preparation? Looking for any info on this path.

While you can't physically join the military right this moment, high school students can take steps towards a military career while still attending high school, primarily through the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) and the Delayed Entry Program (DEP).

The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) is a military-regulated program offered at many high schools. It is offered by all branches of the military and it primarily aims to instill the values of citizenship, service to the country, and personal responsibility. It's important to highlight that participation in JROTC does not require you to join the military, but it can provide a strong foundational understanding of military structure and discipline.

On the other hand, through the Delayed Entry Program (DEP), you can actually enlist in the military while you are still in high school, starting at age 17. This program allows high school students to enlist in their chosen branch of the military, but delay the start of their active-duty service until after high school graduation. This allows you to secure your spot and begin understanding your commitments and expectations before entering full-time service. It's important noting that you should carefully consider the commitment and potential implications before signing up for DEP.

Both of these routes can provide preparation for a future military career while still in high school. If you choose to pursue this interest, it would be advisable to speak to your school counselor or even a military recruiter to understand more about the process and the possible implications.

In parallel to the military focus, I would encourage you to also continue with your academic pursuits, as a lot of military positions require specific educational levels and achieving the appropriate balance can broaden your future opportunities within or outside the military.