13 answers
jharet
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
1
Question
Updated
1471 views
How is the military and do you recommend it
i want to get in to it I'm 17 but I'm nervous
Login to comment
13 answers
Kenneth Cochran
Law Enforcement Officer
14
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
Kenneth’s Answer
Jharet,
I’ve served 12 years in the Army and continue that serve in the reserves. Military service is a commitment that can be very daunting. Depending on your branch and job choice you’ll face unique stressors and dangers most people won’t ever have to experience. It’s just the truth of service. However; life in the military is deeply rewarding even after you get out. It gives you technical skills, leadership experience, and a perspective on work/life that employers highly value.
Courage isn’t not being afraid, it’s choosing to act even when you are afraid. Never let fear be the reason you don’t try something. Talk to a recruiter and explain to them what you want for your future and they can help guide you. Talk to other veterans and ask them about their jobs and experiences.
I am a 68W, Combat Medic. I was trained to provide emergency medical services to my fellow troops. I’ve been able to serve overseas, on humanitarian aid missions, and even onboard a ship. I’ve also been given the opportunities to train as an anti-terrorism Officer which really helped me get my position in emergency management.
I’ve served 12 years in the Army and continue that serve in the reserves. Military service is a commitment that can be very daunting. Depending on your branch and job choice you’ll face unique stressors and dangers most people won’t ever have to experience. It’s just the truth of service. However; life in the military is deeply rewarding even after you get out. It gives you technical skills, leadership experience, and a perspective on work/life that employers highly value.
Courage isn’t not being afraid, it’s choosing to act even when you are afraid. Never let fear be the reason you don’t try something. Talk to a recruiter and explain to them what you want for your future and they can help guide you. Talk to other veterans and ask them about their jobs and experiences.
I am a 68W, Combat Medic. I was trained to provide emergency medical services to my fellow troops. I’ve been able to serve overseas, on humanitarian aid missions, and even onboard a ship. I’ve also been given the opportunities to train as an anti-terrorism Officer which really helped me get my position in emergency management.
James Hanzel
Corrections and Security
236
Answers
Cape Coral, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
Serving in the military is not a decision to be taken lightly. I have been an active-duty Marine for over four years now. Enlisting was a decision I thought long and hard about, but one that I had to do. Remember that it's a four-year commitment. You can't back out.
Speak with every branch. Find the kind of job you would want to do while you're in. Each branch offers something different. The two biggest decisions that would affect your career is your branch and your job. Choose wisely.
I admire the call to serve. Best of luck with your journey.
Speak with every branch. Find the kind of job you would want to do while you're in. Each branch offers something different. The two biggest decisions that would affect your career is your branch and your job. Choose wisely.
I admire the call to serve. Best of luck with your journey.
Brian Ashley
Solutions Architect
1
Answer
New Bern, North Carolina
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hey there,
I personally have never been in the military and hesitated to answer this because f it however I have many friends that are and have been in the military. It was something I thought about when I was younger but decided not to join. That is one of my biggest regrets. Every I know servced and loved it. They are mostly retired and getting full benefits. This is something I have been working for and am not close to . I wish I had joined and did my 20 got out and found something else to do. There are so many opportunities the military can open for you. If your interested I say give it a shot. Even if you go to college first you can then start as an officer. I hope this helps
Go talk to a recruiter and see what they have to offer. You may decides it exactly what you want or no interest at all. What could it hurt?
I personally have never been in the military and hesitated to answer this because f it however I have many friends that are and have been in the military. It was something I thought about when I was younger but decided not to join. That is one of my biggest regrets. Every I know servced and loved it. They are mostly retired and getting full benefits. This is something I have been working for and am not close to . I wish I had joined and did my 20 got out and found something else to do. There are so many opportunities the military can open for you. If your interested I say give it a shot. Even if you go to college first you can then start as an officer. I hope this helps
Brian recommends the following next steps:
Greg Wendzicki
Management Consulting
1
Answer
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Greg’s Answer
I'm only going to focus this response on 'would I recommend it'... Yes
While You're Serving
*The military is a huge organization, and your can find a community that is suited for your interests if you plan ahead (e.g., do you want to fly fighter jets? You'll need to get a college degree and join as an officer through ROTC or a Service Academy; do you want to be a Ranger/SEAL etc? Get into extraordinary shape; do you want to be in a cutting-edge community? Get good grades)
*You will have a stable employment and income, with a well defined career progression
*You'll enjoy a level of job satisfaction that's hard to match as a civilian
After You Serve
*If you do 20 years of service (most don't), you can retire at the age of 40 with a great pension
*Your future education is paid for, or for your spouse/kids (Google the Post-9/11 GI Bill)
*Your experience and service are valued by civilian employers... even if many hard skills are not directly transferable
*You're forever a part of the veteran community. Veterans have a strong pay-it-forward mentality and most will be willing to give career advice, help you find jobs, etc.
While You're Serving
*The military is a huge organization, and your can find a community that is suited for your interests if you plan ahead (e.g., do you want to fly fighter jets? You'll need to get a college degree and join as an officer through ROTC or a Service Academy; do you want to be a Ranger/SEAL etc? Get into extraordinary shape; do you want to be in a cutting-edge community? Get good grades)
*You will have a stable employment and income, with a well defined career progression
*You'll enjoy a level of job satisfaction that's hard to match as a civilian
After You Serve
*If you do 20 years of service (most don't), you can retire at the age of 40 with a great pension
*Your future education is paid for, or for your spouse/kids (Google the Post-9/11 GI Bill)
*Your experience and service are valued by civilian employers... even if many hard skills are not directly transferable
*You're forever a part of the veteran community. Veterans have a strong pay-it-forward mentality and most will be willing to give career advice, help you find jobs, etc.
Ian Murphy
3
Answers
Updated
Ian’s Answer
Good day jharet,
Joining the military is a scary idea and be a major change from the life you live today. Some things I wish I would have listen to from my father, pick something that will provide you with the skills that you can take out into the workforce once you decide to leave or pick a career path that will allow you to have a career within the military. Did you know that if you serve 20 years active duty, you can retire with a full pension and health care benefits. You can then take the skills you have acquired during your service time and apply them to corporate America or start your own business.
I know personally as a manager for Verizon Business, I have time and again sought out new employees that have had a successful military background. The military will also give you money to go to college and obtain a college degree!
In closing, if you don't see yourself going directly to college or some sort of trade school, I believe a career in the military is an excellent idea. You will get on the job training and may be able to see the world during your service.
Thanks, Ian
Joining the military is a scary idea and be a major change from the life you live today. Some things I wish I would have listen to from my father, pick something that will provide you with the skills that you can take out into the workforce once you decide to leave or pick a career path that will allow you to have a career within the military. Did you know that if you serve 20 years active duty, you can retire with a full pension and health care benefits. You can then take the skills you have acquired during your service time and apply them to corporate America or start your own business.
I know personally as a manager for Verizon Business, I have time and again sought out new employees that have had a successful military background. The military will also give you money to go to college and obtain a college degree!
In closing, if you don't see yourself going directly to college or some sort of trade school, I believe a career in the military is an excellent idea. You will get on the job training and may be able to see the world during your service.
Thanks, Ian
Kevin P Hust, MBA
Risk Administration and Army Officer
201
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Jharet, glad you are asking before you actually just join. So I can honestly, after 18 years in the Army, 2 deployments, and several times gone for 6 months or more, it is not for everyone. Some thrive, some hate it. Some make it a career, some try to get out of the Army before they every even start. It is mainly about mindset.
Never lose sight as to why you wanted to join in the first place. This will get you far. Some Soldiers have bad leaders and one bad leader is the reason they want to give. I joined when I was 17 years as well. For me this was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It continuously gave me the structure and discipline I needed to be a better friend, son, father, husband, employee, student. All of those things.
I have wanted to get out of the Army twice in the last 18 years. This was because things got hard and I thought I was not strong enough. This was a mindset. Luckily, I had people in my corner that did want to see me quit. Things will get hard. This is the military. We are trained to win wars. Please do not confuse this as an easy paycheck.
Take your time to make this decision because unlike a job at the local restaurant or retail store, you will not be able to quit very easily. As a senior leader in the Army, please know, we need good people in the army. Be that good person.
Never lose sight as to why you wanted to join in the first place. This will get you far. Some Soldiers have bad leaders and one bad leader is the reason they want to give. I joined when I was 17 years as well. For me this was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It continuously gave me the structure and discipline I needed to be a better friend, son, father, husband, employee, student. All of those things.
I have wanted to get out of the Army twice in the last 18 years. This was because things got hard and I thought I was not strong enough. This was a mindset. Luckily, I had people in my corner that did want to see me quit. Things will get hard. This is the military. We are trained to win wars. Please do not confuse this as an easy paycheck.
Take your time to make this decision because unlike a job at the local restaurant or retail store, you will not be able to quit very easily. As a senior leader in the Army, please know, we need good people in the army. Be that good person.
Jake Johnson
Data analytics
1
Answer
Mansfield, Texas
Updated
Jake’s Answer
Jharet,
There has been some really good advice given to you from the people before me so I will just add on some key inputs from my experience. I served in the military for seven years after I obtained my college degree from the University of Colorado. The army paid for my school before I joined the army. Do not think you can only join the military before you go to college, you just need to look for an ROTC scholarship. I was fortunate enough to serve as a leader in the 75th Ranger Regiment. I learned very valuable skills from the men and women in that organization that directly effected my leadership style today. Serving in the military will afford you the opportunity to serve for a higher purpose and itch that sense of adventure that you might be seeking. It will also open doors for you to transition your career into whatever direction you want to go after you service in the military. Overall, I do not regret any of my time in the military and feel honored to know some of the people that served on my left and right. I commend you for seeking an opportunity to serve and hope you get a sense of peace in whatever decision you make.
There has been some really good advice given to you from the people before me so I will just add on some key inputs from my experience. I served in the military for seven years after I obtained my college degree from the University of Colorado. The army paid for my school before I joined the army. Do not think you can only join the military before you go to college, you just need to look for an ROTC scholarship. I was fortunate enough to serve as a leader in the 75th Ranger Regiment. I learned very valuable skills from the men and women in that organization that directly effected my leadership style today. Serving in the military will afford you the opportunity to serve for a higher purpose and itch that sense of adventure that you might be seeking. It will also open doors for you to transition your career into whatever direction you want to go after you service in the military. Overall, I do not regret any of my time in the military and feel honored to know some of the people that served on my left and right. I commend you for seeking an opportunity to serve and hope you get a sense of peace in whatever decision you make.
Ryan Pfeiffer, MA
Firefighter Lieutenant / EMT
102
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Jharet. Thanks for your interest in serving your country through military service. To best answer your question, it would help to know what specifically you're feeling nervous about?
If you're nervous about risking your life and engaging in combat, I can assure you that you will be very well trained before you're put into that situation - if you're put into that situation at all. The military is huge, and the vast majority of members never see combat. You must always be prepared for the possibility you will be - but there are tons of jobs and several branches of the military that can reduce your likelihood of being in combat - if that's what has you nervous.
If your nerves are about basic training and being yelled and screamed at and pushed to your physical limits in basic training - don't be! Basic training is actually a ton of fun (with the right mindset). You'll learn a lot about yourself, you'll make lifelong friends, and it will be over in the blink of an eye. It's not as bad as Hollywood movies make it look.
If you're just anxious about the commitment, that's fair. It is a lot to commit, even if you just do one tour and then decide to voluntarily separate. I'll be perfectly honest and say the military wasn't what I thought it would be, and I left after 4-years even though I went in planning to do 20+. But, I will also so I have no regrets about having done it. I'm a much better person because I did it, and the education, experiences, friendships, and life lessons are things I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I'll also say that, just like basic training, your 4-years will also go by in a flash.
At the end of the day it's a decision only you can make. Make sure you're doing it for the right reasons. But if you choose to do it, jump in with both feet and don't look back. Good luck!
~US Air Force Intelligence Officer, 2014-2018.
If you're nervous about risking your life and engaging in combat, I can assure you that you will be very well trained before you're put into that situation - if you're put into that situation at all. The military is huge, and the vast majority of members never see combat. You must always be prepared for the possibility you will be - but there are tons of jobs and several branches of the military that can reduce your likelihood of being in combat - if that's what has you nervous.
If your nerves are about basic training and being yelled and screamed at and pushed to your physical limits in basic training - don't be! Basic training is actually a ton of fun (with the right mindset). You'll learn a lot about yourself, you'll make lifelong friends, and it will be over in the blink of an eye. It's not as bad as Hollywood movies make it look.
If you're just anxious about the commitment, that's fair. It is a lot to commit, even if you just do one tour and then decide to voluntarily separate. I'll be perfectly honest and say the military wasn't what I thought it would be, and I left after 4-years even though I went in planning to do 20+. But, I will also so I have no regrets about having done it. I'm a much better person because I did it, and the education, experiences, friendships, and life lessons are things I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I'll also say that, just like basic training, your 4-years will also go by in a flash.
At the end of the day it's a decision only you can make. Make sure you're doing it for the right reasons. But if you choose to do it, jump in with both feet and don't look back. Good luck!
~US Air Force Intelligence Officer, 2014-2018.
Phil McKenzie
Operations Manager
5
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Phil’s Answer
The military is a great career. I joined through an ROTC program in New Mexico. I spent ten years as a Signal Officer for the Army. My last position was a Company Commander, with 130 soldiers working for me. I actually saw many of them grow as mature adults. After getting out, I joined the communications industry and realized I was one of many prior military veterans. I became a manager and saw the maturity and skill level difference between a 25-year-old non-military and military employee. In the military, you are given many jobs that you may or may not be qualified for, but the training and responsibilities you get train you for the civilian world. 80% of my employees are prior military because that is what I seek. You can give them any task, and they will complete it with little guidance because of the training and responsibility that the military gives you.
To be honest, I think everyone should go through the military because of the citizen that it makes you.
To be honest, I think everyone should go through the military because of the citizen that it makes you.
Sallie Young
payroll specialist
28
Answers
Canton, Georgia
Updated
Sallie’s Answer
While i personally do not have experience with being in the military, I have been blessed enough to have close friends, partners and family from all walks of life which means I have known quite a few people who have served. To start its a divide. I have known people who have loved it and those who have equally disliked it. Before making a decision i think it would be wise to see if theres anyone you know whos been in and ask them questions. Research the branches. familiarize yourself with it. See if you have a local ROTC program. Ultimately the only person who can make the choice is you but I believe doing the research and being informed will help you make the Best one
ANDI SANDEN
AZ2, US NAVY
47
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
ANDI’s Answer
I've been in the Navy for 7 years and love it.
My first tour I had a different job and was sure I wanted to get out. Now that I've switched to a job I much more prefer, I'm pulling the full 20 years.
The military is what you make of it.
People say they don't like certain bases and they don't like deployment... I have enjoyed every base I've been to and while some parts of deployment were hard, I actually quite enjoyed it and am looking forward to going back out soon.
My first tour I had a different job and was sure I wanted to get out. Now that I've switched to a job I much more prefer, I'm pulling the full 20 years.
The military is what you make of it.
People say they don't like certain bases and they don't like deployment... I have enjoyed every base I've been to and while some parts of deployment were hard, I actually quite enjoyed it and am looking forward to going back out soon.
Jonny Booth
United States Marine
32
Answers
Davenport, Iowa
Updated
Jonny’s Answer
Selecting the appropriate military branch for you is crucial. A lot of individuals discover their calling in the Air Force, where attaining success can frequently be more straightforward compared to the more demanding branches such as the Marine Corps. Nevertheless, it's vital to bear in mind that each role within the military possesses its distinct culture and attracts certain personality types. Therefore, it truly boils down to your individual preference and what you aspire to achieve in your military career. Your triumph ultimately depends on your choices and the decisions you make.
Eric Becera
System Administrator
15
Answers
Mililani, Hawaii
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Jharet,
There are many benefits to joining the military right out of high school:
1) You can select a skill and try it out for four years to see if it suits you
1.1) You can leverage that skill to get a good job/career after you leave the service
1.2) If you don't like what you are doing, you can retrain for another skill in 3 years
1.3) If you end up enjoying what your doing, you can retire in 20 years and start a new career
2) In those four years you can also get an associates degree and possibly a bachelor's degree, all paid for
3) You can travel and experience the world
4) If you choose to get out after four years, you'll have done more and experienced more than most people who stayed home or have gone to college, with a possible college degree as well
5) You will mature beyond your peers and be able to make decisions as a young adult, due to military training
5.1) If you lack discipline, the military will show you how
6) You will learn teamwork and leadership skills
6.1) Not only at work, but also through military sports
7) No gym membership needed, all bases have facilities
7.1) You have the potential to be physically fit
8) If you join at 18 and separate at age 22, you will be better prepared for life than most people your age, giving you an edge
9) You will have served in the best military in the world, protecting your country and its freedoms
I enlisted at 17 and was very nervous and shy, but have grown to have completed 32.5 years of Active duty in the Air Force and Air National Guard. I have traveled the world. I have leveraged my skills and experience to a Federal career and will have 2 retirements. I have met the most interesting people from all over the US, and have lifetime friends and adventures that I am glad to have experienced. Don't let doubt or fear hold you back from wanting to accomplish anything. You can even have a friend join with you, to overcome the fear of joining yourself.
The military is not for everyone, but for those who have chosen to serve, it has helped them in some way, shape, or form in their life, and I am honored to have been in the same company with them.
Do your research on which branch of military you would like to join
Ask family or friends if they know someone in the military you can ask questions
Once you are equipped with enough knowledge about the military, speak with a recruiter
There are many benefits to joining the military right out of high school:
1) You can select a skill and try it out for four years to see if it suits you
1.1) You can leverage that skill to get a good job/career after you leave the service
1.2) If you don't like what you are doing, you can retrain for another skill in 3 years
1.3) If you end up enjoying what your doing, you can retire in 20 years and start a new career
2) In those four years you can also get an associates degree and possibly a bachelor's degree, all paid for
3) You can travel and experience the world
4) If you choose to get out after four years, you'll have done more and experienced more than most people who stayed home or have gone to college, with a possible college degree as well
5) You will mature beyond your peers and be able to make decisions as a young adult, due to military training
5.1) If you lack discipline, the military will show you how
6) You will learn teamwork and leadership skills
6.1) Not only at work, but also through military sports
7) No gym membership needed, all bases have facilities
7.1) You have the potential to be physically fit
8) If you join at 18 and separate at age 22, you will be better prepared for life than most people your age, giving you an edge
9) You will have served in the best military in the world, protecting your country and its freedoms
I enlisted at 17 and was very nervous and shy, but have grown to have completed 32.5 years of Active duty in the Air Force and Air National Guard. I have traveled the world. I have leveraged my skills and experience to a Federal career and will have 2 retirements. I have met the most interesting people from all over the US, and have lifetime friends and adventures that I am glad to have experienced. Don't let doubt or fear hold you back from wanting to accomplish anything. You can even have a friend join with you, to overcome the fear of joining yourself.
The military is not for everyone, but for those who have chosen to serve, it has helped them in some way, shape, or form in their life, and I am honored to have been in the same company with them.
Eric recommends the following next steps: