I'm thinking real hard about what I want to do when I graduate from college in December. For some reason I just don't think I'm ready for that 9 to 5 office job just yet. I've been thinking about joining up with the Army, Navy, or Air Force. I just wish we weren't at war right now.
One thing that I really like about the Army and Navy is that they have a loan repayment program up to $65,000. The Air Force has one too for $10,000. That $55,000 has to be because of safety issues, right? I imagine the Air Force would be a much safer choice than the Army, but I never really thought the Navy to be that dangerous.
I want to make a conscious effort to look at all my options and this is just part of that process. So any advice?
"I'm one of the last cats, puttin the flavor back into rap"
Talk to people who have just left the service branch that you are considering joining. Find out how it is today, in the current War on Terra and see if you think you would want to serve under these conditions.
Loans are just money. You can get money lots of places. If serving your country sounds like the way to do it, then go for it, but don't just listen to guys who were in the service 20 years ago or recruiters - check with the guys doing it now and those who recently left.
Originally posted by Guru ZimTalk to people who have just left the service branch that you are considering joining. Find out how it is today, in the current War on Terra and see if you think you would want to serve under these conditions.
Loans are just money. You can get money lots of places. If serving your country sounds like the way to do it, then go for it, but don't just listen to guys who were in the service 20 years ago or recruiters - check with the guys doing it now and those who recently left.
I second this. Serving in the military, especially now is a noble endeavor, however, it isn't for everybody.
Guru is right, make sure this is what you want and have a real clue as to what you are getting into.
If you are doing this just for the loan money, that's not a great reason as there are plenty of ways to address that.
And if you want something different and wish to serve, there's the Peace Corp and many other nontraditional ways out there.
Originally posted by Santa SangreI'm thinking real hard about what I want to do when I graduate from college in December. For some reason I just don't think I'm ready for that 9 to 5 office job just yet. I've been thinking about joining up with the Army, Navy, or Air Force. I just wish we weren't at war right now.
One thing that I really like about the Army and Navy is that they have a loan repayment program up to $65,000. The Air Force has one too for $10,000. That $55,000 has to be because of safety issues, right? I imagine the Air Force would be a much safer choice than the Army, but I never really thought the Navy to be that dangerous.
I want to make a conscious effort to look at all my options and this is just part of that process. So any advice?
Honestly as someone who grew up military, don't join. This line right here:
"I just wish we weren't at war right now."
tells me it's not for you. That's not an insult, just how I see it. Join because you want to serve in whatever way might be needed, not because it's good money.
I enlisted in 1995 after making my mind up when Gulf Conflict I started. When I finished in 1999, Things just simmered and didn't really take a turn until 9/11. I always tell someone to go if you are looking for an education but I agree, if you wished that we weren't at war, this gig is not going to be for you. My girlfriend's sister spent most of her 4 years in Afghanistan and Iraq and my best friend hasn't been home enough to see his boys grow up.
I was in the Reserves for two years: it was a challenge. If you're seriously considering it, please talk to your family about it...get their input about your decision.