Hey guys! I'm a junior at Van Buren High School looking for some advice. I'm seriously considering a military route after graduation, but don't really know where to start. Has anyone else from VBHS taken this path, and if so, could you share your experiences? How did you prepare during your high school years?
Absolutely, you're not alone in considering this path. Many students nationwide pursue a military career every year. The military could indeed be a solid choice depending on your career aspirations, interests, and personal situation.
Preparing can involve multiple pathways:
1. JROTC: Check whether VBHS offers a Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program. Joining such a program can provide an immersive military-focused experience in high school. It's a beneficial environment to learn about leadership, discipline, and some specifics about the military structure, which would be a solid preparation for a future in the armed forces.
2. Physical Fitness: Military service is physically demanding, so be sure to keep up on your fitness. High-intensity training, running, swimming, and weightlifting can help keep you in top shape for any physical fitness tests you may need to pass when you join the military.
3. Academics: It's important to maintain good grades and a solid academic record. Branches like the Air Force and the Navy, for instance, lean heavily on technical skills, where a strong foundation in STEM subjects can be of help.
4. ASVAB Exam: This is a multiple-aptitude battery that measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military. Preparing for this exam is a critical step. There are study guides available online and in bookstores.
5. Career Counselors/Military Recruiters: Connecting with a career counselor at your school or a local military recruiter can help guide you through the enlistment process, provide detailed information about benefits, and discuss which roles might fit your goals and skills best.
Remember, serving in the military is a significant commitment, but many find it rewarding. It provides excellent training, discipline, life skills, and financial support for future education if you decide to attend college after service. Best of luck with your decision-making process!
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