Enlisting in the U.S. Military Right Out of High School

So, I've been doing some thinking about life after high school. With how things are going, I'm leaning more towards the military instead of college. I heard there are some branches of the U.S. military that you can just join. Is it that simple though? What's the process like for enlisting and what should I expect?

Joining the U.S. military indeed presents a significant pathway for many high school graduates, one that can provide unique career opportunities, job security, training, and even potential financial assistance for future education paths.

You're right in that the process isn't quite as simple as just deciding to join - there are several steps involved. Here's a blueprint of what the enlistment process generally looks like:

First, you'll want to get in touch with a recruiter. You can usually find recruiters offices in your local area for each branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force). They'll answer your specific questions, tell you about the different roles you can apply for, and give you an overview of the requirements.

Next, you'll have to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) which measures your abilities in a variety of aptitudes and helps to determine what military jobs you're most suited for. Depending on the branch, there are different score requirements.

After the ASVAB, you'll need to complete a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) review. This includes a medical examination and a moral character standards review, and it finalizes your aptitude test results. It will also help determine your physical qualifications for the military.

Once you've cleared the MEPS review, you'll take the Oath of Enlistment to affirm your commitment, at which point, you'll officially be enlisted. The next step depends on your situation: if you're still in high school, you'll be placed in the Delayed Entry/Enlistment Program until you graduate.

Finally, you'll undergo Basic Training, which varies in duration and intensity depending on the branch of service you're joining. During Basic Training, you need to prepare for a mix of physical training, classroom-based learning, and practical skills development.

Remember: it's not just about meeting these technical requirements. Joining the military is a major life decision and involves a substantial commitment. Take some time to thoroughly research each branch, the opportunities they provide, and the obligations they entail. Discuss with your family, teachers, mentors, or anyone you trust to guide you towards the best decision for your future. Remember to consider all your available post-high school options before making a final decision.