US Marine Corps Reserve after High School?

Just doing a little future planning here... Is joining the United States Marine Corps Reserve a viable move straight out of high school? What's the commitment and training like? Can you balance it with college classes or work? Does anyone have some firsthand information on this?

Joining the United States Marine Corps Reserve straight out of high school is certainly a viable path, and many individuals take it each year. Here's what you can expect both in terms of commitment and balancing it with other responsibilities:

Training: Initially, you'll need to go through Basic Combat Training (BCT), also referred to as "boot camp," which lasts for about 13 weeks. In addition to BCT, you will also need to complete your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) school, which varies in length depending on the specific MOS.

Commitment: After boot camp and MOS training, you'll be committed to serving in the Reserves for eight years (with a certain amount of that time toward the end of the contract in the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR)). During this time, you're expected to be available for duty one weekend per month, known as "drilling," and two weeks in the summer for "Annual Training".

Balancing with College/Work: Many Reservists manage to balance their military service with their studies or work. As a Reservist, you’re still a civilian for the majority of the time and can attend college and work a regular job. Some employers are even specifically supportive of employees serving in the Reserves.

In terms of college, remember to check out the education benefits offered to military personnel - the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance Program, among others, can help offset the cost of education.

One thing to keep in mind is that even though being in the Reserves offers more flexibility than active duty, it's still a significant commitment. Make sure to think through how you'll manage your time and responsibilities. For example, you may need to use vacation time for your two-week Annual Training, or you may need to work with your college to reschedule exams or assignments if they conflict with your drill weekends.

It's a path that requires dedication but also comes with its fair share of rewards and opportunities. Consider speaking to a recruiter or someone currently serving in the Reserves to get additional insights. They can give you more detailed information based on their experiences and help you understand if this path aligns with your personal goals and aspirations.