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What types of people are a good fit for the military?
This question is part of our professionals series, which aims to expose students to questions they might not be considering.
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9 answers
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Johnny’s Answer
I couldn't agree more with the insightful posts above. Not only do essential qualities like discipline, confidence, leadership skills, teamwork skills, empathy, intellect, and top physical fitness contribute to one's success in the military, but I have discovered that the ability to rapidly adapt to change is truly paramount. Embracing change and being a critical and creative thinker can definitely propel you towards a highly rewarding and successful military career.
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ANDI’s Answer
You just have to have motivation and an ability to follow instructions.
You're told everything, so as long as you can listen and keep going... it's easy.
You're told everything, so as long as you can listen and keep going... it's easy.
John Medeiros MS EHS
Environmental Health and Safety Manager (Seeking Next Great Opportunity)
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Lakeville, Massachusetts
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John’s Answer
The military really is a microcosm of society. Every kind of person you have in the civilian world you will find in the military, from bible thumpers to heavy drinkers and worse. The thing is, you are all there for one purpose, and you are all broken down and made to learn a very specific set of rules before you are released into the military to learn and do your job. Basic training is just that, the basics of life in the military, and you will learn to work out, work together, and work at a time.
Now if your question is, what kind of person will have an easy time of it in basic training? Well, I did. I had four years of Civil Air Patrol, so I know the rank structure and many of the little things that trip people up in those first few weeks. I had also been around military people, so I have some understanding of their mentality and how they think and act.
People who do not have an easy time of selfish people, lazy people, and independent people who don't want to join or be part of the group.
At some point during basic training, you WILL think "I may have made a mistake here" and that's normal
Good luck!
Now if your question is, what kind of person will have an easy time of it in basic training? Well, I did. I had four years of Civil Air Patrol, so I know the rank structure and many of the little things that trip people up in those first few weeks. I had also been around military people, so I have some understanding of their mentality and how they think and act.
People who do not have an easy time of selfish people, lazy people, and independent people who don't want to join or be part of the group.
At some point during basic training, you WILL think "I may have made a mistake here" and that's normal
Good luck!
Hey John, I liked your answer, but I made a few edits so that it would have a more encouraging tone. Let me know if I didn't accurately capture what you were saying!
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Updated
Rheannon’s Answer
Individuals who excel in the military are those who possess an incredible ability to adapt and conquer any challenge that comes their way. Embracing the ever-changing nature of military life, they skillfully collaborate with their team to achieve their goals, no matter the obstacles. Even though hours may be unpredictable, plans fluctuate, and some situations might feel nonsensical, remember that these experiences only make you stronger and more resilient as a military professional.
By focusing on the positive aspects and letting go of anything that seems unreasonable, you're able to maintain a healthy perspective and avoid taking things too personally. Above all, being a reliable and accountable team player is the key to thriving and enjoying your time in the military. So keep your head high, trust in your abilities, and relish the incredible journey ahead!
By focusing on the positive aspects and letting go of anything that seems unreasonable, you're able to maintain a healthy perspective and avoid taking things too personally. Above all, being a reliable and accountable team player is the key to thriving and enjoying your time in the military. So keep your head high, trust in your abilities, and relish the incredible journey ahead!
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Jonny’s Answer
Choosing the right branch for you is key. Many find their path in the Air Force, where success can often be easier to achieve compared to more challenging branches like the Marine Corps. However, it's important to remember that every role within the military has its unique culture and appeals to specific personality types. So, it really comes down to your personal choice and what you aim to accomplish in your military career. Your success ultimately lies in your hands and the decisions you make.
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Rhiana’s Answer
Here are some qualities that may make someone a good fit for the military:
Physical Fitness: The military requires individuals to be physically fit and maintain a certain level of physical readiness. Being in good physical shape can help individuals meet the demands of military training and perform their duties effectively.
Mental Toughness: Military life can be challenging, both physically and mentally. Individuals who have the ability to persevere through difficult situations, adapt to changing circumstances, and remain focused under pressure may be well-suited for military service.
Team Player: The military is a highly structured and disciplined organization that places a strong emphasis on teamwork. Individuals who are able to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and follow orders from superiors may excel in the military environment.
Leadership Potential: The military offers opportunities for individuals to advance in rank and take on leadership roles. Those who possess strong leadership qualities, such as good judgment, decision-making skills, and the ability to inspire and motivate others, may be well-suited for military leadership positions.
Commitment: Military service requires a high level of commitment and dedication. Individuals who are willing to make a long-term commitment to serving their country and following the military's code of conduct may be good candidates for military service.
It's important to note that these are general qualities that may make someone a good fit for military service. Ultimately, the military has specific requirements and qualifications that individuals must meet to join, which can vary depending on the branch of service and the individual's desired job.
Physical Fitness: The military requires individuals to be physically fit and maintain a certain level of physical readiness. Being in good physical shape can help individuals meet the demands of military training and perform their duties effectively.
Mental Toughness: Military life can be challenging, both physically and mentally. Individuals who have the ability to persevere through difficult situations, adapt to changing circumstances, and remain focused under pressure may be well-suited for military service.
Team Player: The military is a highly structured and disciplined organization that places a strong emphasis on teamwork. Individuals who are able to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and follow orders from superiors may excel in the military environment.
Leadership Potential: The military offers opportunities for individuals to advance in rank and take on leadership roles. Those who possess strong leadership qualities, such as good judgment, decision-making skills, and the ability to inspire and motivate others, may be well-suited for military leadership positions.
Commitment: Military service requires a high level of commitment and dedication. Individuals who are willing to make a long-term commitment to serving their country and following the military's code of conduct may be good candidates for military service.
It's important to note that these are general qualities that may make someone a good fit for military service. Ultimately, the military has specific requirements and qualifications that individuals must meet to join, which can vary depending on the branch of service and the individual's desired job.
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Moses’s Answer
The easiest way too answer this would to break down what is already expected, and that is too be a physically competent person whilst being very adaptable. There are plenty of personalities in the military that shouldn't work but do because of how diverse the military is as a whole. With this, being confident and adaptable are the biggest factors that would make you successful in your military career.
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Eric’s Answer
Some of the best traits that help in determining if military service is right for you are the following: adaptability, drive, empathy, honor, courage, commitment, radical acceptance, self-awareness, common sense, humor, pride, and love.
Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
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Steven’s Answer
Know what it is you want to do/be. Work with recruiter to align your goal as closely as possible with the specific military skill.
Be flexible and open to learn. Self discipline and motivation will take you far. Having a thick skin doesn't hurt either.
Working together as a team to reach your end goal is a valuable tool. The military can provide you all you need for a great career, in and out of the service.
Be flexible and open to learn. Self discipline and motivation will take you far. Having a thick skin doesn't hurt either.
Working together as a team to reach your end goal is a valuable tool. The military can provide you all you need for a great career, in and out of the service.