Military Recruiting High Schoolers: What's The Process?

Kind of feelin' the pressure of junior year and starting to consider the military as an option after graduation. Can someone break down how the military actually recruits high schoolers? Do you have a say in the branch or is it assigned?

The military indeed does recruit high school students, and the process usually begins with a meeting with a recruiter. Recruiters from different military branches, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, often visit schools or local community events to provide information and answer questions.

You certainly do have a say in which branch you want to join. It's not assigned. You can research about the various branches and make your choice based on your interests, goals, and the benefits that particular branch offers. Each branch of the military has its unique lifestyle, job opportunities, and enlistment requirements, so it's vital to consider all of these factors before making your decision.

If you want to initiate the process, you can find a local recruiter online, through the official website of the military branch you're interested in, or by calling the recruitment hotline. However, remember that you must be at least 17 years old to begin the enlistment process.

After your initial contact, you'll have an interview with a recruiter. This meeting is an excellent opportunity for you to ask all of your questions and to learn more about what to expect from the enlistment process and military life in general.

The next step would typically be the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a test that measures your abilities and helps determine the best career path for you in the military. Your score on the ASVAB test will influence the types of military jobs available to you.

Physical examinations and background checks are also parts of the enlistment process—these are to ensure that you meet the branch's physical, moral, and legal standards.

If you pass all of these steps, you'll go to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) where you'll swear in once you're ready to commit, and you'll be assigned to boot camp where you'll undergo rigorous training.

It's crucial to discuss this decision with your family and do extensive research, so you're sure it's the right path for you. The military is a commitment and can be a challenging lifestyle, but many find it rewarding and a great way to start their careers with numerous benefits such as paying for college, career training, and more.