I just can't figure it out!?

Question

in two months I have to decide whether or not to finish college right now, or go ahead with my plans to join the Air Force. Why three months you ask... well because I had to drop out of DEP, and the flight chief said his door was open if I wanted to come back after I apologized for wasting their time... but I don't know if I will still have the opportunity when three months is up. I'm really patriotic, and I really want to serve my country. I also want to travel the world and do all sorts of new and cool things. At the same time I want my college degree so I can have a great career and the pride of finishing college. Finishing college will take me about 1 and a half to two years. I'm not basing my life decisions on strangers on Y.A. but i like to hear unbiased opinions and even some biased opinions. I'm afraid to have regrets and to let people down though and that can happen either choice i make. also i took a year off of school already and haven't been doing to well

well not so much, I had a couple pretty good convo's with the flight chief, its up to the commander whether or not they put stipulations on you re joining the DEP, and since we talked and everything like that, he said that I would do it just the same as I did the first time, he even gave me a good list of communication jobs I should try for since thats what i'm interested in

Answer 1

Ms. Jackson, I applaud your desire to serve our country. I wish you wisdom in your desicion. Only you have the power to make it. I have served and I encourage all with the desire to do so.

That being said, you have as much time as you desire to make up your mind. Until you meet the maximum age to enter at least. Do not let the recruiter 'guilt' you into a decision and don't let the naysayers scare you out of it.

Being so close to graduation, I would actually recommend that you continue the course, unless you are in need of finances to finish. In those last 18 months, you can look at college repayment programs from the military, including the Army, as well as OCS programs and ROTC programs. IF you choose to enter, as enlisted, you can look at the college payment program.

But I reiterate, do not let anyone 'guilt' you into a decision. When you choose to come in, you will find it rewarding and when you leave, you will find an emptiness in the civilian world. This truth is amazing, but it will lead you to success after the military.

Choose Well!

Answer 2

First off you need to finish college. yes there are programs to finish college in the military but they demand alot of time and effort. You need to concentrate and get your schooling done first.
Secondly when and if you go into the military the degree will open more avenues in your military career such as officer programs. never underestimate the opportunities afforded an officer.
Thirdly don't even worry about the recuiter, don't kowtow to him he's doing a job and believe me if he can guilt and harrang you into doing something for him he won't give it a second thought no matter how it turns out for you.
My recuiter was a fantastic guy and never told me anything even remotely untrue but he also didn't try to make people feel like they owed him anything. Don't let this guy get under you're skin remember he needs you as much as you need him and don't let him boss you around. If he becomes too much of a jerk find another recruiter or try a different branch of the military you might be suprised what they may offer. Recuiters are just salesmen for the military and you wouldn't let a salesman talk you into something you don't need and you'd walk out if he was being a jerk so don't hesitate to treat him the same way
If you're bound and determined to go into the military before you finish college make sure you have your school and job garraunteed in writing. If there is something you don't understand have them explain it to you so you can. Don't take "Don't worry about it " as an answer for anything.
Mostly just remember the recuiter while he may act like a buddy really isn't he's doing a job and needs bodies and you're one of them so watch yourself. It's your life and you need to control what's done with it.
Good Luck I hope this all works out for you.

Answer 3

Based on what I've seen with my daughters and their friends, working your way thru school is not easy.

In corporate life I watched many people get degree's. Again not easy.

I suggest School first and Lavadogs suggestion as the 2nd. neither will be easy.
Sitting down with one of those many other recruiters with BA in hand is a BIG plus.

Answer 4

You do not have to apologize to any recruiter ok, those airforce guys are jokes, they like to act all tough, even though they all sit at a desk all day or are airplane grease monkeys. Come on down to the Army recruiters and talk to them and get yourself a meaningful job.

Answer 5

first of all talk with a recuiter to see what your options with programs are. College is very important and some are able to finish college while in. Talk to all involved and make informed decisions as a former soldier i applaud your desire to serve your fellow americans

Answer 6

try to finish school while in the AF, you will have plenty of off time, do not apologize to no one.. Hes not the only recruiter out there.

Answer 7

Don't go back, when you drop out of the DEP, if you wish to join up again, your enlistment is in THEIR hands. Whatever spot they need you in, they will put you in. You have no more say in the matter.