I am an 18 year old girl, i go to santa ana college. I have always been interested in the U.S Army, but i don't really know it is they make you do. I am thinking about joining but i am not sure yet. I want to go trasfer to UCI after i am done, but i don't know if the decision i make will affect my educational plans. I want to be a reporter/journalist i am also interested in dental assistant. so if i were to join do you guys know what they really make you do? what is it like, would u if you were once in the ARMY joing again? why please be honest i need some help! thanx!!
2007-11-20 14:07:50 · 11 answers · asked by nataly 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
Hi nataly. I've been an army wife for over 9 yrs now. Before that I spent 4 yrs active duty so maybe I can help you. As to whether or not I would join again. No. Not because I'm against it but because my kids need me home more. Also my husband needs my support behind the scenes. That said joining the army was one of the best choice I ever made. I really grew up and found myself in the army. It made me a stronger person. Both physically and mentally. Keep in mind that we are a war however. You could and probably will get sent to Iraq or Afghanistan. Yes female soldiers do die over there. I know this is harsh but you should be prepared. The army is not for those looking for a free ride through college. It is for those brave enough to serve their country. I wish you all the luck in the world w/ your decision.
2007-11-20 15:00:36 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are thinking about joining the army, you need to consider a few things fist. Why are you joining, what do you want to do after you get out, and are you ready to face the possibility of being deployed, and are you willing to defend youself and your unit at all costs?
As an Airborne Ifantryman, formerly with the 173rd ABN BDE, 1/508th INF, I can tell you that you will have to accept the fact that you will be deployed at some point in time, so be prepared!
As far as your interest in journalism, and dental assistant, they have those jobs available. As long as you score a 110 or higher on your ASVABE (Armed Services Vocational Aptituted Battery Exam) you can do whatever you like as far as an MOS (Military Occupational Specialty). You should also consider an MOS that you can use on the outside, after you get out. This is important! There are many MOS's that cannot be used in the civillian world!
What they make you do isn't really all that much. Daily exercise, and your MOS is daily routine. Normally your "work day" will begin around 0600 for PT, then a 0900 work call, and end around 1700, so it's basically a 6am-5pm job.
Your biggest challenge is that you have to remember that you are a soldier first! It doesnt matter what you choose to do for a job in the Army, you are first and foremost a rifleman. Which means that you need to be able to use, maintain, and qualify with your primary weapon system, usually the M16A4, or M-4 rifle.
You don't really need to worry about it screwing up your educational plans too much, as you can go to school while you are enlisted, and depending on your unit and your enlistment package, you can go to school for little to nothing.
Most of what you want to know can all be answered by your local recruiter. Make a list of every question you want to ask them before you go to see them. Question everything! There are no stupid questions when it comes to enlisting in the armed services!
Lastly, would I rejoin the Army? Yes I would. I've been all over the world in the time I was in, and I've seen and experienced many things. The memories and friends you make will last a lifetime. That I can promise you.
2007-11-20 22:54:59 · answer #2 · answered by Mouse 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you aren't sure then don't. I put off joining for the last 5 years to do the band thing. Did the band thing, toured the country, put out records, and ended up still working a day job. I don't regret it but I would regret if I went through life never knowing what I could have accomplished with music. I'm the same way with the military now. I would only regret not doing it, always being curious as to how it was or could have been.
2007-11-20 22:12:02 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is only ONE good reason to join the Army or any other branch of the military and that is because you love your country and you are willing to fight and possibly die carrying out your mission as directed by your elected government leaders and your command. The enlistment bonuses, GI Bill, health & life insurance are just perks. They should not be the reason that you join.
In basic training, it will quickly become transparent to your leaders and your peers if you joined for the wrong reasons.
If you do love your country and you want to do something that matters then, by all means, join up. Just don't make a half-hearted commitment.
2007-11-20 22:36:42 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
visit www.goarmy.com they have lots of great information.
However something you should consider, are you willing to be deployed? Or the one that took me back, my recruiter asked me are you willing to defend yourself and your unit till death? That question took me back, because i'm a cook. (well a nutrition care specialist) It is our duty to protect, even if it means using our weapon (which is a last resort). I personally think its a great desicion to join the army. You grow stronger mentally and physically. You also recieve some great benefits. However it really does need lots of consideration if your not sure. Check out the website. Talk to a recruiter, they have all the answers you need, just remember its their job to make you "want" to join.
Good Luck!
2007-11-20 22:19:37 · answer #5 · answered by woofywaffles 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
it's been good to me.
I was in the National Guard for 5 years while I went to college and when I finished college I went active duty and have been for almost 7 years now.
if you want to know more ask
2007-11-20 23:03:45 · answer #6 · answered by MP US Army 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In today's climate with a Republican leader and an ugly war that is killing many of our young people needlessly, No I would not join the armed services, if we were not involved in Iraq I say go for it kiddo.I know a lot of good Army men and women that are real pros.
2007-11-20 22:16:20 · answer #7 · answered by katie d 6 · 0⤊ 3⤋
No. Stay in college. If you have half a brain or any self esteem at all you will hate the army.
However, if you enjoy being abused, demeaned, and having your soul stomped on, then by all means, sign up.
2007-11-20 22:23:04 · answer #8 · answered by sol_s_99 2 · 1⤊ 2⤋
I'm a pacifist so my immediate response is "No" but being honest - Every job has it's upside and it's downside.
Upside - comradeship, learning experiences, overseas travel, get to play with big toys, get paid, etc, etc.
Downside - Go overseas to die
2007-11-20 22:24:00 · answer #9 · answered by Christian 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋
it is too dangerous at this time. if i were u i wouldn't do it. u will be deployed. this war is not even close to being over. my sis joined the guard last year and she's going to kuwait next year.
2007-11-20 22:17:25 · answer #10 · answered by PRINCESS DI 4 · 0⤊ 3⤋