Military
The military offers a unique path for students seeking purpose, education, structure, or adventure. Whether you're interested in leadership, technical skills, or serving your country, the military provides a wide range of opportunities-either right after high school or through college.
Military Career Paths
1. Enlisted Path (Right After High School)
Requires a high school diploma or GED. Join at 17 with parental consent or 18 without. Attend Basic Training, then job training in your assigned field (called MOS, AIT, or "A-School" depending on the branch).
Benefits of Enlisted Path
- Full-time salary, medical and housing benefits - Job training in 150+ careers
- GI Bill for college after service
- Travel and advancement opportunities
2. Officer Path (Requires a College Degree)
Officers lead units, manage operations, and are paid more. Must earn a bachelor's degree before commissioning. Common Officer Routes include ROTC, Service Academies, OCS/OTS, and Direct Commission.
U.S. Military Branches - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force
How to Prepare in High School
- Academics: Keep grades high and take challenging classes - Fitness: Train early for military fitness tests
- Leadership: Join clubs, sports, or student government
- JROTC: Great intro if your school offers it
Key Programs to Explore
- ASVAB: Test that determines job eligibility
- ROTC: College program with scholarships and training
- Service Academies: Elite colleges with free tuition and officer commission - OCS/OTS: For college grads wanting to lead
Requirements to Join
- Age: 17 (with consent) or 18+
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen or lawful resident - Fitness: Must pass MEPS physical
- ASVAB Score: Determines job options
Benefits of Military Service
- Education funding (GI Bill, tuition assistance) - Free/low-cost healthcare
- Housing and travel opportunities
- Retirement after 20 years
- Hands-on job experience
Reserves & National Guard Options
Serve part-time while in school or working. Includes monthly drills and annual training. Same benefits scaled to part-time.
Safety & Lifestyle Considerations
Military life is disciplined and structured. Deployments are possible. Training builds leadership and resilience.
What to Ask Yourself Before Joining
- Do I want full-time or part-time service?
- Do I want to go to college first?
- Am I ready for a structured lifestyle?
- What kind of job or role am I most interested in?
Helpful Resources
Visit these sites for more information:
- https://www.todaysmilitary.com
- https://www.militaryonesource.mil
- https://www.goarmy.com
- https://www.nrotc.navy.mil
- https://www.usafa.edu
- https://www.usna.edu
- https://www.officialasvab.com
Final Tip
Talk to recruiters, teachers, counselors, or veterans. Do your research and start preparing early.