Choosing the Right Military Branch as a Female

Hey guys! I'm a junior in high school and I've been thinking about joining the military. However, I've been conflicted about which branch to join. How do I determine which branch would best suit me as a female? Are there any particular branches that are more inclusive and provide more opportunities for women?

Absolutely, it's fantastic that you're considering serving your country through military service. Each branch of the military has different missions, responsibilities, training regimens, and career opportunities and as such, the best branch for you would depend largely on your interests, skills, and long-term goals.

Is there a particular career field you're interested in, like medicine, aviation, engineering, cyber, or logistics for example? Some branches might have more opportunities in certain fields. For example, during the service and afterwards, the Navy has abundant paths for engineering and the healthcare fields, whereas the Air Force is renowned for its aviation and cyber opportunities.

You might also want to think about the lifestyle and culture of each branch. For instance, if you are more interested in sea-based operations and like the idea of being on a ship, the Navy could be a good fit. If you're more keen on ground operations or becoming involved with infantry, perhaps the Army or Marine Corps would be more suitable. The Air Force, on the other hand, is known for its emphasis on technology and aviation.

Regarding inclusivity and opportunities for women, all U.S. military branches have made considerable strides in promoting gender equality, opening up combat roles to women, and instituting policies to prevent and deal with sexual harassment and assault. However, the percentage of women in each branch varies, with the Air Force and Navy having a higher percentage of women compared to the Army and Marines. In 2020, the Air Force was reportedly leading among the branches with an approximate 21% of women in its active-duty force.

In summary, no two branches are exactly alike, both in terms of the jobs they offer and their respective cultures. The key is to do your research thoroughly – talking to veterans or servicemembers from different branches, taking to your local recruiter, and reading as much as you can online about each branch could give you a sense of which branch may best align with your aspirations. Remember, the decision is a significant one, so take your time to consider all the details. Best of luck!