Seeking advice about military recruiting and branches

Hi everyone, I'm a high school rising junior starting to seriously think about my post-grad plans. Wondering if anyone here could give me some clear-cut comparisons and descriptions of the recruiting processes of different branches of the US military? It's something I am considering but I need more insight to make my decision. Thank you!

Hello! It's great that you're considering serving in the military as a potential career path. Each military branch indeed has a distinct recruiting process, although they share some commonalities. Here are some of the key points for you to know:

1. U.S. Army: This branch has the largest number of enlisted soldiers and officers. The process begins by visiting a recruiter, who will conduct an initial screening. Then, you'll head to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) for many tests, including physical examinations and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which helps determine jobs you're eligible for in the military.

2. U.S. Navy: Similar to the Army, the Navy also requires a meeting with a local recruiter followed by a MEPS visit. The Navy has over 80 enlisted jobs, which they refer to as "ratings". These can move into more specialized professions as you progress in rank.

3. U.S. Air Force: Interestingly, the Air Force is known to have higher enlistment standards in terms of your ASVAB scores. The process starts with a recruiter as well, but you must score at least a 36 on the ASVAB.

4. U.S. Marine Corps: The Marine Corps has arguably the most rigorous basic training program. Like the other branches, you start with a recruiter and then move onto MEPS. The Marine Corps emphasizes the philosophy of every member being a ‘rifleman first’ and places an emphasis on combat skills.

5. U.S. Coast Guard: This branch is unique in that it functions under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime and can be transferred to the Department of the Navy during war. Its recruiting process is similar, but the Coast Guard also provides distinct training for search and rescue operations, security duties, and maritime law enforcement.

6. U.S. Space Force: Established in late 2019, it's still hiring largely from airmen already in the Air Force and tasks include both civil and military space operations.

Remember, the process doesn't end once you're through MEPS. After that, each branch requires you to complete some form of Basic Training. It's here that you learn the core values, principles, skills, and physical conditioning necessary to be a Military Servicemember.

I strongly recommend meeting with a recruiter from each branch you're interested in. They have extensive knowledge and can provide insight into job opportunities, training, benefits, and the specific lifestyle of the branch they represent. Just keep in mind that their job is to persuade you to enlist, so be sure to conduct independent research as well. Good luck with your journey!