11 answers
Grant
Student
New Marlborough, MA
3
Questions
Asked
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What are some benefits you can get if you serve in the military?
I want to join the military right after high school #military
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11 answers
Shairon Dunbar Butler
Network Engineer/ Technical Instructor
2
Answers
Richardson, Texas
Updated
Shairon’s Answer
Hi! Grant, I am proud to be a veteran I have a good paying Job because of my military connections. For me it was one of the best thing I ever did. It was challenging and I was always doing something different and stimulating.
To be honest it can be one of the best things you ever do or not. It all depends on the attitude you have on the journey. It is not for someone who cannot be serious about the commitment or be willing to be a part of teamwork.
I endorse the military because it will provide you with a unique opportunity to do and see things you’ve never done before along with so much more.
Aside from the basics such as “To serve your country and protect your country's liberty and freedom.” You gain a sense of pride at everything you accomplish. “Been There, Done That”
Other benefits:
• Traveling
• Build Friendships and share camaraderie for a life time,
• College education benefits.
• Be trained in a career field that could lead to a good paying job. In most cases you get to choose your career field. They generally test you to see where you fit in, but don’t be afraid to ask what’s available and if you qualify for it. Think about your future and how what you get trained for will translate to a good job as a civilian and a job that will always be in demand.
• Learn new skills. Improve yourself. Go to college in your spare time try to complete a degree. Which allows you to save on the cost.
• You gain Leadership skills: Once your enlistment is over you can add your military service to your resume and most when they see that know that they are getting someone well trained and they know they are getting an employee that came from the an institution that provided real world leadership.
• Save some money for your future.
• Guaranteed salary
• Additional benefits that make up the total Military compensation package.
You will also receive an allowance for housing, food and health/dental insurance. If you have a family there are other additional family support programs, which include affordable child-care, legal assistance services and inexpensive shopping at the Post or Base Exchanges and Commissaries.
If you have a chance to do some ROTC in school it will give you some insight as to whether it is something you would like to do.
Each branch of the military is known for something specific check into each branch before you decide.
Thank You for checking into it and best wishes for whatever you decide.
To be honest it can be one of the best things you ever do or not. It all depends on the attitude you have on the journey. It is not for someone who cannot be serious about the commitment or be willing to be a part of teamwork.
I endorse the military because it will provide you with a unique opportunity to do and see things you’ve never done before along with so much more.
Aside from the basics such as “To serve your country and protect your country's liberty and freedom.” You gain a sense of pride at everything you accomplish. “Been There, Done That”
Other benefits:
• Traveling
• Build Friendships and share camaraderie for a life time,
• College education benefits.
• Be trained in a career field that could lead to a good paying job. In most cases you get to choose your career field. They generally test you to see where you fit in, but don’t be afraid to ask what’s available and if you qualify for it. Think about your future and how what you get trained for will translate to a good job as a civilian and a job that will always be in demand.
• Learn new skills. Improve yourself. Go to college in your spare time try to complete a degree. Which allows you to save on the cost.
• You gain Leadership skills: Once your enlistment is over you can add your military service to your resume and most when they see that know that they are getting someone well trained and they know they are getting an employee that came from the an institution that provided real world leadership.
• Save some money for your future.
• Guaranteed salary
• Additional benefits that make up the total Military compensation package.
You will also receive an allowance for housing, food and health/dental insurance. If you have a family there are other additional family support programs, which include affordable child-care, legal assistance services and inexpensive shopping at the Post or Base Exchanges and Commissaries.
If you have a chance to do some ROTC in school it will give you some insight as to whether it is something you would like to do.
Each branch of the military is known for something specific check into each branch before you decide.
Thank You for checking into it and best wishes for whatever you decide.
Christian Christian Ruiz
Active Duty Air Force, High School Basketball Coach
5
Answers
Okinawa, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
Updated
Christian’s Answer
Grant,
Good benefits, possibility of learning a trade and getting some money for school for yourself or even your family. I would recommend you decide carefully which service you join. Keep in mind the upcoming options of the Space Force (No you are not flying to space...yet). I've had the pleasure of serving for the last 20 years and have no regrets at all. Seen the world, they paid for all my college up to my Masters Degree, took care of me and family while we are together and when they send me away. Depending on your situation, I would recommend it. Feel free to reachout if you have more specific questions.
https://www.airforce.com/
https://www.airforce.com/spaceforce/
Good benefits, possibility of learning a trade and getting some money for school for yourself or even your family. I would recommend you decide carefully which service you join. Keep in mind the upcoming options of the Space Force (No you are not flying to space...yet). I've had the pleasure of serving for the last 20 years and have no regrets at all. Seen the world, they paid for all my college up to my Masters Degree, took care of me and family while we are together and when they send me away. Depending on your situation, I would recommend it. Feel free to reachout if you have more specific questions.
Christian recommends the following next steps:
Thanks for your service, Christian!
Been considering Air Force Reserve and/or Air Guard myself :)
I love the work I get to do here at CareerVillage but think it'd be awesome to serve as well at some capacity! I'm in the early stages of considering: looking into my local bases, and checking out what jobs are available, and hopefully can meet up with a local recruiter to better evaluate. Excited for the possible opportunity.
Cheers!
Jordan Rivera, Admin
COACH
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Grant the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides dozens of federal benefits to veterans and their dependents, including VA home loans, educational assistance, disability compensation and more. As a military veteran, you may apply for a home loan that is guaranteed by the federal government as an example.
MILITARY EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS
• JOB TRAINING – Everyone in the Military is trained in a job specialty. Many military schools offer high-tech training. Some are accredited so you earn college credits as you receive job training. Your aptitudes, physical abilities, motivation and determination help decide which military career best suits you. And most military jobs have a civilian counterpart so you'll have a head start if you decide to leave the Military.
• COLLEGE EDUCATION – During and after your time in service, the Military encourages you to advance your education. To that end, there are many programs designed to help you pay for college—even medical school. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, loan repayment programs, tuition assistance and college credit for training are some of the available options.
MILITARY WORK BENEFITS
• SALARY – Service members are paid twice a month based on pay grade, service requirements and time in service. A paycheck generally consists of base pay plus special pays and allowances, if a service member is eligible. There are many different types of allowances, including the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (to pay for food), cost-of-living adjustments and so on. The Military promotes people based on a combination of job knowledge and performance, time served at that level, physical fitness and the needs of the Service. Individuals joining the enlisted ranks are typically promoted three times during the first four-year enlistment. Officers are usually promoted twice during the same period.
• VACATIONS – Vacation
In the Military, you receive 30 days of paid vacation each year, compared to the standard two weeks for entry-level civilian careers. What's more, service members often have access to free or low-cost travel throughout the world on military aircraft.
• HEALTH CARE – Active-duty military members receive medical and dental care at no cost. Care and wellness programs are available through a system of military and civilian health-care facilities. In addition, the spouse and dependent children of an active-duty member may also enroll in military health care.
• RETIREMENT – All service members are covered automatically by the Uniformed Services Blended Retirement System, which automatically sets aside 3% of your basic pay in a Thrift Savings Plan for retirement. The services will match your contribution after two years, which is also when that savings is yours to take with you, even if you leave the Military.
Hope this was helpful Grant
Enlistment is the most common way to join the Military. Familiarizing yourself with the enlistment process can be helpful, as there are a few things that you'll likely go through no matter which career path you choose. Once you've done your research and have a sense of which Service branches and opportunities are right for you, it's time to talk to a recruiter who can give you detailed information about the branch he or she represents and can answer questions about your specific situation. Recruiters serve one specific branch, but there are joint recruiting centers that represent multiple branches and their corresponding recruiters. While no single recruiter can answer every question off the top of his or her head, recruiters will know where to find the answers.
MILITARY EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS
• JOB TRAINING – Everyone in the Military is trained in a job specialty. Many military schools offer high-tech training. Some are accredited so you earn college credits as you receive job training. Your aptitudes, physical abilities, motivation and determination help decide which military career best suits you. And most military jobs have a civilian counterpart so you'll have a head start if you decide to leave the Military.
• COLLEGE EDUCATION – During and after your time in service, the Military encourages you to advance your education. To that end, there are many programs designed to help you pay for college—even medical school. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, loan repayment programs, tuition assistance and college credit for training are some of the available options.
MILITARY WORK BENEFITS
• SALARY – Service members are paid twice a month based on pay grade, service requirements and time in service. A paycheck generally consists of base pay plus special pays and allowances, if a service member is eligible. There are many different types of allowances, including the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (to pay for food), cost-of-living adjustments and so on. The Military promotes people based on a combination of job knowledge and performance, time served at that level, physical fitness and the needs of the Service. Individuals joining the enlisted ranks are typically promoted three times during the first four-year enlistment. Officers are usually promoted twice during the same period.
• VACATIONS – Vacation
In the Military, you receive 30 days of paid vacation each year, compared to the standard two weeks for entry-level civilian careers. What's more, service members often have access to free or low-cost travel throughout the world on military aircraft.
• HEALTH CARE – Active-duty military members receive medical and dental care at no cost. Care and wellness programs are available through a system of military and civilian health-care facilities. In addition, the spouse and dependent children of an active-duty member may also enroll in military health care.
• RETIREMENT – All service members are covered automatically by the Uniformed Services Blended Retirement System, which automatically sets aside 3% of your basic pay in a Thrift Savings Plan for retirement. The services will match your contribution after two years, which is also when that savings is yours to take with you, even if you leave the Military.
Hope this was helpful Grant
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Dalton Davis
Grad Student
4
Answers
Duluth, Georgia
Updated
Dalton’s Answer
As a navy veteran, I fully recommend joining the military especially if you are unsure of a career path to follow with college. Along with the benefits of healthcare, housing, and a secure employment, the military (no matter the branch) will help advance you as a person and an employee. The ASVAB test that is required will give you an idea of your strengths for choosing a job in the military and also for career consideration outside of the military. While serving, you will build a great network of connections up the chain of command for references and job referrals when transitioning out. Also, the skillset and character building you will obtain while serving will make you a well rounded employee for any employer in the civilian world. Also, you could eventually decide to serve for 20+ years and retire from military service where you earn all of the VA benefits available while serving plus your retirement pay at an age to pursue any civilian or government contract career you want. Hope this helps and thank you for considering serving our country. Good luck with your future.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1738
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Like Sierra, I was not in the military, but grew up as a military brat. I've also worked with many former military co-workers.
In addition to the benefits already listed, the biggest benefit I've noticed is personal development. People in the military develop self-confidence, teamwork, and present themselves well when interacting with others. They learn to take responsibility for their actions, and, they develop leadership skills. Even if you do only one period of enlistment, usually 4 years, when you get out, at the age of 22, you will be far ahead of most of your civilian peers.
Employers know this. They know that a 22 year old veteran is going to be more dependable than their counterparts.
I like to see all young people consider the military. It's not for everyone. But, if it's for you, you won't regret it. Four years seems like a long time when you are young. But, in the grand scheme of things, it's a very short piece of your life, and you will have memories that will last a lifetime.
In addition to the benefits already listed, the biggest benefit I've noticed is personal development. People in the military develop self-confidence, teamwork, and present themselves well when interacting with others. They learn to take responsibility for their actions, and, they develop leadership skills. Even if you do only one period of enlistment, usually 4 years, when you get out, at the age of 22, you will be far ahead of most of your civilian peers.
Employers know this. They know that a 22 year old veteran is going to be more dependable than their counterparts.
I like to see all young people consider the military. It's not for everyone. But, if it's for you, you won't regret it. Four years seems like a long time when you are young. But, in the grand scheme of things, it's a very short piece of your life, and you will have memories that will last a lifetime.
Sierra Wolf
Occupational Therapist
13
Answers
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Sierra’s Answer
Hi Grant!
I am not in the military myself, however my father and immediate family all serve. Joining the military has a lot of benefits especially if you don't know if you want to go to college or not sure what you want to do after high school. I am sure a recruiter could tell you more but some of the main benefits are health insurance, a housing allowance to pay for rent, training and education. Usually, you will be on a military base where you can purchase tax free and low cost items at the commissary and BX/PX/NEX. You also get to travel and see a lot of places you wouldn't otherwise get to live in or see. Through the VA you can get access to low interest loans and other financial benefits. Additionally, most military members qualify for the G.I. Bill which will pay for college for either yourself or your spouse/dependents.
There are some challenges however that are important to note. If you are joining straight from high school and do not have a specialty you may not get much of a say in what your job is. You may have to travel to rough and dangerous areas and you may be involved in combat. There is risk of injury and/or death. Additionally, although you do get to submit a wish list of places you would like to move to, often you will go where the military needs you the most and you may not like it (or you may like it a lot!). Usually, when you are stationed somewhere it is for 2-3 years. Some people enjoy moving often (as a kid I sure did!), others may struggle with the constant change. You are also required to maintain a certain level of fitness and health to stay as an active duty member. Depending on the branch you join, you may spend many months on a ship or in a remote area. The military works so well because it runs on a tradition of discipline, rank and obedience. As with any job, you may have a leader whom you do not like or do not get along with, however you will be required to listen and be respectful. There are channels where you can make complaints if you are concerned but outright disobedience or disrespect can leave you in legal trouble or in a military court marshal. Some people struggle with that.
Overall, it can be a great launching point for you to learn a skill, travel the world and serve your country. There is however, some self sacrifice involved which you need to be willing to make if you plan to join. Best of luck!
I am not in the military myself, however my father and immediate family all serve. Joining the military has a lot of benefits especially if you don't know if you want to go to college or not sure what you want to do after high school. I am sure a recruiter could tell you more but some of the main benefits are health insurance, a housing allowance to pay for rent, training and education. Usually, you will be on a military base where you can purchase tax free and low cost items at the commissary and BX/PX/NEX. You also get to travel and see a lot of places you wouldn't otherwise get to live in or see. Through the VA you can get access to low interest loans and other financial benefits. Additionally, most military members qualify for the G.I. Bill which will pay for college for either yourself or your spouse/dependents.
There are some challenges however that are important to note. If you are joining straight from high school and do not have a specialty you may not get much of a say in what your job is. You may have to travel to rough and dangerous areas and you may be involved in combat. There is risk of injury and/or death. Additionally, although you do get to submit a wish list of places you would like to move to, often you will go where the military needs you the most and you may not like it (or you may like it a lot!). Usually, when you are stationed somewhere it is for 2-3 years. Some people enjoy moving often (as a kid I sure did!), others may struggle with the constant change. You are also required to maintain a certain level of fitness and health to stay as an active duty member. Depending on the branch you join, you may spend many months on a ship or in a remote area. The military works so well because it runs on a tradition of discipline, rank and obedience. As with any job, you may have a leader whom you do not like or do not get along with, however you will be required to listen and be respectful. There are channels where you can make complaints if you are concerned but outright disobedience or disrespect can leave you in legal trouble or in a military court marshal. Some people struggle with that.
Overall, it can be a great launching point for you to learn a skill, travel the world and serve your country. There is however, some self sacrifice involved which you need to be willing to make if you plan to join. Best of luck!
Michael Carroll
Field service representative
12
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Some of the benefits you can receive from an honorable tour of service include GI bill school benefit, VA medical benefits, and VA home loan.
The GI bill school benefits give the student tuition for school that is paid for up to $36,000, That covers most 4 year degrees. Another school benefit is the Post 9/11 GI bill that allows students to receive a housing allowance while enrolled in school. This helps the student to focus on school more than a job to support living expenses.
VA medical benefits is another tool to help veterans. Enroll in the VA medical and when a service member needs medical attention it is practically paid for. The service connected injuries can be addressed by the VA and other issues can be too.
The VA home loan allows a service member to purchase a home with no money down and the loan is covered by the VA. This benefit can be used while on active duty and while out. This helps service members establish a home without the cloud of saving for a down payment.
These benefits are very useful tools and all service members should take advantage of them.
The GI bill school benefits give the student tuition for school that is paid for up to $36,000, That covers most 4 year degrees. Another school benefit is the Post 9/11 GI bill that allows students to receive a housing allowance while enrolled in school. This helps the student to focus on school more than a job to support living expenses.
VA medical benefits is another tool to help veterans. Enroll in the VA medical and when a service member needs medical attention it is practically paid for. The service connected injuries can be addressed by the VA and other issues can be too.
The VA home loan allows a service member to purchase a home with no money down and the loan is covered by the VA. This benefit can be used while on active duty and while out. This helps service members establish a home without the cloud of saving for a down payment.
These benefits are very useful tools and all service members should take advantage of them.
Dawn Cordero
Chief of Staff
58
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Dawn’s Answer
Along with all of the Federal benefits listed one benefit that I received was a sense of honor. I am a 4th generation military service member and I take pride and honor to have served my country while honoring my family.
David Mathis
Sales
6
Answers
Lincoln, California
Updated
David’s Answer
There are other great answers giving the specific policy perks like vacation, VA benefits, education, and retirement. Those are great, but I think the best perks are intangible. The two best perks of being in the Military were learning how to be part of high performing team, and being in close proximity to so many great leaders. The acceleration of life experience and the speed to which you acquire useful and actionable skills in unparalleled.
James Hanzel
Corrections and Security
236
Answers
Cape Coral, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
Benefits from joining the Military... There's plenty. The first one is professional development. You get hands on experience in many different trades. A lot of which are directly transferrable to the civilian world. You don't have to worry about a resume or whether or not you have enough experience to get a job interview. You jump right in. The next benefit is self-discipline. You have to develop it out of necessity in the military. That will give you some good habits to carry with you the rest of your life. The last one I will mention, although there are many others, is education. Tuition Assistance is free college. I have gotten my Associates Degree without having to pay a dime out of my own pocket. I haven't even touched my G.I. Bill yet.
Brooklyn C.
X-Ray Technician, Corpsman
6
Answers
Updated
Brooklyn’s Answer
Hello Grant! I am currently serving in the military, and it really has some great benefits. Debt-free education, 2.5 leave days accrued each month, free healthcare, special interest rates and VA loans, military discounts, and many more. But to each perk can be a difficult point as well; being away from family, high stress situations, crazy hours, inability to travel without reporting it to several people above you. I tell people I advocate for the military because I joined right out of high school, and I realized I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. Now, being in for 7 years, I’ve found my passion is teaching, because I had to do it for the military. It doesn’t suit everyone, but it has some great opportunities to set yourself up for the future. Good in whatever you choose to do!