Choosing between community college and university after military service

Hello! I'm a high school junior and I've been considering joining the military after I graduate. After serving, I plan to go to college but I'm torn between attending a community college or a university. Can anyone share their thoughts on this? Is there a benefit to one over the other after serving? Thanks in advance.

First, it's commendable you're already considering your long-term educational goals alongside your decision to serve. As you step into planning your post-military educational path, keep in mind that community colleges and universities both offer significant benefits, and your choice would depend on your goals, financial situation, intended field of study, and adaptability to a school's setting.

Starting at a community college can provide a smooth transition since they tend to have smaller classes and personalised attention. They also offer a cost-effective way to gain college credits and many have articulation agreements with universities, which may facilitate your transfer. Community colleges also provide technical and vocational courses, which could be beneficial if you're interested in a specific career skill set.Universities, alternatively, may offer broader course variety, greater opportunities for research and internships, and a more traditional college experience. If you know your intended major and it requires a lot of prerequisites, starting at a university may allow you to dive straight into those classes.

Your military service will also qualify you for the GI Bill benefits, which cover a sizable portion of your educational costs at either a community college or a university. In some cases, the benefits can cover the entire cost of tuition, irrespective of whether you choose a community college or a university.Remember, your decision should be aligned with your academic and career goals, your comfort with class size, and collegiate atmosphere. It might help to talk with a military education office or a college counselor at your high school who can help you break down the decision based on your personal circumstances and aspirations.

For example, if you're thinking about an engineering degree, it might be best to check the programs offered by universities near you and compare them with the transfer programs of your local community colleges. If you're unsure about your major, a community college might be a less expensive way to explore your interests.

Whatever route you decide, know that your military service will offer valuable life and work experience that you can bring to the classroom, enriching your learning experience and those of your classmates. Good luck with your decision!