4 answers
Katherine
Student
22
Questions
Asked
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Is it a good idea to join the navy after high school?
I've heard that if you join the navy they will pay 100% cost of the career you chose to pursue.
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4 answers
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
478
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Hi, katherine,
there is no one 'good idea', so it is a decision that is for you to decide. Yes, the Navy and other military forces do pay for the training you need to do the job they assign to you. And it's true that you can tell your preferences. Many enjoy exciting careers in the Navy, or just stay the initial enlistment with positive results, but I encourage you to view the whole picture of being in the Navy, such as time at sea and being required to go wherever they need you. I enlisted (Air Force) for 4 years when I was your age and it was a positive, maturing experience for me that I do not regret.
there is no one 'good idea', so it is a decision that is for you to decide. Yes, the Navy and other military forces do pay for the training you need to do the job they assign to you. And it's true that you can tell your preferences. Many enjoy exciting careers in the Navy, or just stay the initial enlistment with positive results, but I encourage you to view the whole picture of being in the Navy, such as time at sea and being required to go wherever they need you. I enlisted (Air Force) for 4 years when I was your age and it was a positive, maturing experience for me that I do not regret.
Eric Hopkins, MHA
United States Navy Talent Scout
21
Answers
Racine, Wisconsin
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hello Katherine,
I think it is a great idea to do so. It is an opportunity to serve your country, meet people from all walks of life, see the world, become independent financially, find out who you are and what you want out of life, avoid the debt associated with college, utilize free gyms on bases, take advantage of free health & insurance, and eventually walk away from service with so many benefits and the privilege of saying "I served my country in the United States Navy." lol That last part is a bit cheesy but it's what I and only 1% of our fellow Americans can say.
Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
I think it is a great idea to do so. It is an opportunity to serve your country, meet people from all walks of life, see the world, become independent financially, find out who you are and what you want out of life, avoid the debt associated with college, utilize free gyms on bases, take advantage of free health & insurance, and eventually walk away from service with so many benefits and the privilege of saying "I served my country in the United States Navy." lol That last part is a bit cheesy but it's what I and only 1% of our fellow Americans can say.
Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
Rhiana Jones
22
Answers
Updated
Rhiana’s Answer
Joining the Navy after high school can be a good option for some individuals, but it is a personal decision that requires careful consideration.
One potential benefit of joining the Navy is that they offer education and training opportunities, which could include paying for college or vocational training for a specific career. However, it's important to note that these benefits come with certain obligations, such as serving a certain amount of time in the Navy, and the specific benefits available may vary depending on individual circumstances and the needs of the Navy at the time.
Before deciding to join the Navy, it's important to do thorough research and consider all the factors involved. This may include speaking with recruiters, reading up on the experiences of former and current Navy members, and considering your own personal goals and values. You may also want to consider other options for achieving your career goals, such as attending college or pursuing vocational training without joining the military.
Ultimately, whether or not joining the Navy is a good idea depends on your individual circumstances and goals. It's important to carefully consider all the factors involved and make an informed decision.
One potential benefit of joining the Navy is that they offer education and training opportunities, which could include paying for college or vocational training for a specific career. However, it's important to note that these benefits come with certain obligations, such as serving a certain amount of time in the Navy, and the specific benefits available may vary depending on individual circumstances and the needs of the Navy at the time.
Before deciding to join the Navy, it's important to do thorough research and consider all the factors involved. This may include speaking with recruiters, reading up on the experiences of former and current Navy members, and considering your own personal goals and values. You may also want to consider other options for achieving your career goals, such as attending college or pursuing vocational training without joining the military.
Ultimately, whether or not joining the Navy is a good idea depends on your individual circumstances and goals. It's important to carefully consider all the factors involved and make an informed decision.
Scott Dunne
Consulting
23
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Generally, any branch of the military is going to pay for your military specific training. Be aware that your military job may not carry certification in the civilian world. (Being a medic in the Army does not get you automatically certified to be an EMT or other job in the private sector, being a communications specialist does not get you civilian IT accreditations). When a recruiter tells you that they will 'pay for your job of choice', you really need to ask specifics. In general terms, serving three years in an active duty capacity will qualify you for the Montgomery GI Bill. The GI bill will pay for a substantial part of a four year degree. Additionally, many states have National Guard programs that pay full tuition towards a state sponsored school. My information may be a bit out of date, but the bulk of it is still valid. Be careful when you are told 100%....most programs have a monetary limit and only cover books, tuition and housing. They will cover 100% of the tuition to a state school, not Ivy League, Private or other non traditional forms of education (in most cases)
Get to know your recruiter. Set up several meetings with them and ask as many questions as you can. A good, honest recruiter will not pressure you. A good recruiter will take the time to learn your interests and place you into a field that benefits both you and the military.
Get to know your recruiter. Set up several meetings with them and ask as many questions as you can. A good, honest recruiter will not pressure you. A good recruiter will take the time to learn your interests and place you into a field that benefits both you and the military.