Hey, I'm an American student living in Europe and I'm interested in attending a military high school. Are there any American high schools in Europe that have a military focus? Or does anyone know how I could prepare for a military career while living here?
While there aren't any American high schools with a direct military focus in Europe, you may want to look into schools that are part of the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). This agency runs schools for American military children stationed overseas and is committed to producing students who are career and college ready.
These schools offer a curriculum that aligns well with American schooling, so you could continue your education seamlessly if you return to the States. While not explicitly "military high schools," they do provide an environment wherein you'll likely interact with peers who also have parents in the military, where a sense of patriotism is fostered, and where there's an emphasis on leadership and discipline.
To focus on preparing for a military career, there are few things you could do. First, maintain good grades, as cadet programs and military schools look at academic performance. Next, build leadership skills and physical fitness. Participate in sports and seek leadership roles in extracurricular activities, whether within school or within your community.
In addition, consider joining a local branch of the Scouts or other outdoors-focused groups. These organizations often emphasize leadership development, outdoor skills and preparedness, which are all valued in military settings.
If you are looking for a structured military prep program, the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) could be a good option. The JROTC program prepares students for leadership roles while making them aware of their rights, responsibilities and privileges as American citizens.
Even if JROTC isn't available in your area, you could seek out similar programs. The equivalent programs in European nations often provide the discipline and training that characterize military prep. Remember, the exact name of the program will likely differ country by country, so a little research may be necessary.
Lastly, take advantage of resources such as the ASVAB Career Exploration program, which can help you explore various military careers and understand the necessary requirements. This program can be accessed online and used from overseas.
Remember that continuous improvement and focus are key. It's not just about the immediate actions you take, but your overall growth and development that will prepare you for a military career.
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