COLLEGE OR MILITARY: WHICH PATH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FIRST?
After graduating high school, many are still undecided about what to pursue, and others are torn between college or military. Some people will take a different path and not choose; instead, they will take both and juggle both options simultaneously. The good thing is there is no right or wrong answer as to whether opting for the military or college first is the best choice. But, if you dream of becoming an officer in the armed forces, you must have a college degree, as it is one of the requirements. The good thing is that you can take advantage of various benefits when you join the military, such as the GI Bill, which can help reduce the cost of your college education because sometimes student loans are such a killer.
Attending College Before Military Service
Most high school graduates will pursue their education after graduating. As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in October 2019, 66.2% of ages 16 and 24 were enrolled in a college or university. Attending these schools will provide students with a traditional, coming-of-age college experience with some perks and benefits.
Most degree holders have an advantage in enlisting as officers in the armed forces. One prerequisite is having a bachelor's degree if one wants to become an officer, and a master's degree is required for those who wish to reach the rank of captain and above.
Also, having a degree before joining means more chances of being promoted. According to the U.S. Navy, most officers have a high education and experience. They also hold a degree, which can help them achieve leadership and management roles.
If you are still undecided about choosing between college or the military, think carefully. Still, you might qualify for a college loan repayment program if you go to college. Still, it is best to check the military branch you will be going to as they might have a different rule on this. An example is that for those highly qualified enlistees, the Army will repay 33.3% of the total loan amount every year.
However, individuals must consent to service and have no enrollment for three years under the Montgomery GI Bill. Lastly, it will be easier to transition from the military after acquiring life experience in college rather than the opposite.
Choosing Service First Over College
Others want to pursue a career in the military. This decision is a good idea, too, since it has a few benefits. For example, the military offers up to 36 months of financial aid for supplies, fees, textbooks, and tuition. There are also ways to get your degree free, like becoming a doctor.
While learning all the skills you need and enduring the challenges through military training, you will push yourself harder and discover your new capabilities. With this training, more skills will be unlocked, allowing you to learn where to excel and how you can use the new skills once you become a civilian.
Lastly, once in the military, you will receive a paycheck, meaning you can earn money for something that you might want to do in the future. Most often, personnel can reach an average of around $62k a year, which is good enough to cover the cost of living. Joining the military can also qualify you for all Vets’ and active members' benefits. These things include loans, healthcare, and insurance discounts.
Choosing between college or military will vary from one person to another and will depend on the situation. There are some pros and cons on both sides. It depends on how you look at the situation. Enlisting in military service means you will gain the advantage of retiring early, probably doing what you want, avoiding student loans, and already having a degree through military benefits. On the contrary, having a college degree first before enlisting will allow you to start your military career at a higher rank, with better pay grades and more options for leadership roles.
Whatever path you choose, college or military, it is best to stay true to yourself and decide what will best suit your goals, personality, and ambition.
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