Join the military or go to college?

Question

My mom is pushing me to join the Navy but my other family is pushing for college (Univ of South Carolina). I will not have any financial support from my family. I have given serious thought towards joining, and I wouldn't mind it, but I can't help but feel like I should be going to college. Yes I can use the GI bill but realistically, I would get my degree faster going full time and I've always wanted to be an officer. I'm academically competitive but scholarships are so hard to get and I really don't want to take out outrageous loans. What is the smartest thing to do that will put me in a better position in the long term?

Answer 1

One of my daughters chose to join the military before going to college. After almost two years in the military she is glad she made that choice. Not only will she have more money over and beyond what I will provide, she is growing and maturing. her classes will mean more to her with a deeper understanding of the world.

I went to college on the GI bill myself. One of the things I most remember is looking around the classroom at all the silly and inexperienced children fresh out of high school. They really didn't seem to have a clue about the real world.

Whatever you choose to do, good luck and do your very best. It will make a huge difference to you for the rest of your life.

Answer 2

I was in the same situation you are in 2 years ago. I wanted to join the Air Force to be an officer and serve my country but I also wanted to go to college and experience the college life, of friends and challenging assignments and great professors. I had no money to go to college. So, I got a Sallie Mae loan. So, I just made a decision that I felt was right. Since, I always wanted to be a officer in the Air Force, I'm attending college full-time. Once, I finish college then I plan on enlisting in the Air Force to have some sort of military background because of me majoring in Criminal Justice. The only advice I can give you. Is to just do what you feel that;s in your heart. Make a decision that you'll never regret doing. I felt that I always wanted to know the college life and it was a great way for me so, that's why I choose college first. And if I decide to enlist after school, I will. Just make the best choice for you, and don't let anyone stop you, or any obstacles turn you away from accomplishing your dream. Good luck!! and Best Wishes to you!!!

Answer 3

Have you checked into the Naval ROTC program? It is also called the Reserve Officer's Training Corps. When you graduate from college, you are commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. The University of South Carolina offers the program. The scholarship program includes full tuition, subsistance allowance each academic month, textbook stipend, university fees, and uniforms. It requires 8 years of commissioned service with 3 years of which being active duty.

Answer 4

u u can do both......u can go to a military school n join the navy right after.........tell ur mom that if u go to a military college first when u graduate u will become an officer n not start from the bottom like most people......my friend nick decided to go to the marine corps straight from high school n he became a lance corporal but melvin went to SUNY Maritime college n he became a 2nd Lieutenant..........think what is better n plus the navy will pay for it if u go to boot camp n then college but if u are not sure just ask a recruiter there should be one close by where u live.

Answer 5

From reading your question, it appears you have your heart set on joining the military.

Speak with hometown Recruiters about all the benefits for you, especially the education benefits.

While family members may be concerned for your welfare, they are usually speaking advice for their benefit, not yours.

Only you will determine what is best for your future.

Gather all the information you will need, then make a sound, logical choice for your benefit, not family members.