Attending college before the military

Hey, I was thinking about attending college first then joining the military. Does anyone know the benefits of taking this route? Would love to hear any thoughts or experiences.

Choosing to attend college before enlisting in the military can offer several benefits that might be helpful for both your personal and professional growth.

First, earning a degree before joining can open up opportunities to enter the military as an officer, rather than an enlisted soldier. Officers typically have more specialized roles and earn higher pay. Note, however, that this does not automatically guarantee an officer appointment - other factors like physical fitness, citizenship, and aptitude tests are also considered.

Second, the military values further education - they offer tuition reimbursement programs and may even cover graduate programs. So, by already having a degree, you might have enhanced opportunities for attending higher education programs if that aligns with your career goals.

Third, college can provide you with valuable skills and experiences beyond just academics. You'll learn to manage your time, cooperate with diverse groups of people, and hone your problem-solving skills, all of which are beneficial in a military environment.

Lastly, it's also worth noting that the decision to join the military is a significant commitment - typically at least a few years, with implications for where you live and what you do. Attending college first allows you more time to mature and ensure that it's the right choice for you.

Remember, there's no "one size fits all" answer here. Your personal circumstances, career ambitions, and academic interests will factor into your ultimate decision. If you're unsure, a good route could be to avail career counseling or speak with recruiting officers from different branches to fully understand what they offer in terms of educational opportunities, career progression, and lifestyle. They can provide a real-life perspective on the implications of your decision.