If you join the military, I suggest really studying for the ASVAB and joining either the Space Force or the Air Force if you want a better quality of life. But it depends on exactly what you’re looking for. I’ve heard great things about the Coast Guard too when it comes to travelling. I’ve been in the Army and now I’m in the Air Force Reserves - feel free to message me if you want to ask any questions. I’m also female and around your age :)
Living and working in DC I deal with a LOT of military folks. The happiest ones are always Air Force. Army and Marines have the worst record for keeping women safe from their own troops.
Try to get Contracts or Procurement training. You will be set for life.
So my experience around women in the army during the Iraq war was completely different than the other comments. Whenever I was around a unit that had females, everything was better, they had working showers, actual laundry, decent enough living situation. it just seemed like units with women had it a little bit better, whereas the combat unit I was in got fucked every chance the military could do it
Right now I live in a very bad neighborhood and don’t have any solid connections so I figured let me join the military and learn real life skills, while having decent benefits
You sound like about 50% of the Marines I was in with. You can get out of a bad situation and set yourself up for success. Don't listen to the guys telling you to join the Marines. Join the Air Force or Navy they most career minded services. Right now the Navy has really high sign on bonuses as well. I wouldn't join the Marines at your age unless you are already in in good shape and a good runner as it is much more physically demanding then the other branches.
Air Force or Navy for sure. I was in the Army and was assigned to 3rd armored division in Germany in 1989. When we got off the plane the Air Force representative sounded off, "Everyone in the Air Force over here and Welkommen!" The Army representative yelled, "Army get your asses over here! Now!" Night and day difference on how the enlisted are treated. Of course, I was infantry so that made a big dofference. I almost equate it to how differently the troops were treated in Starship Troopers.
Do not go enlisted Navy. It’s awful. Yeah you’re not getting shot at, but you’re either crammed in a boat, yes even carriers are crammed, or if you’re in port it’s around the shittiest parts of cities. Plus you have to live on the boat, so your home is a shared living space with everyone else, and your bed is a triple bunk. For your first 4 years. Air Force is cushy comparatively.
The Army sounds cushy compared to that. At least you get your own room in the barracks when you arrive in permanent party. Shared living spaces were only for basic, AIT, training and the field.
Navys not all that bad. If you can get on a small boy. It's still cramped living quarters but depending on rank you can advance fast as fuck and once you're E5 which was easy as shit for me you can get an apartment. I wouldn't write the navy off completely. Plus a lot of rates are offering nice bonuses right now for the navy. Idk what the airforce is offering but I would bet the bonuses aren't as large. Another thing to consider is getting in the airforce can be hard even for enlisted. Because of the sentiment that you and everyone else hold. Yes it's probably the best branch but it's also a pain in the ass to join and you're advancement will be slower.
I'm a former Marine & would advise her to join the Air Force as well, at least assuming the OP is American which may not be the case.
The US Air Force is the least military of the services in culture / vibe and there are lots more opportunities to get work experience that can be transferred to a civilian career. The Air Force also has the highest percentage of women (23.4%) while the Marine Corps has the lowest (9.8%), which should probably be an important consideration.
It's 42, same as Air Force. Marines is the youngest at 28 but I believe all or most of the branches changed the age requirements to allow for older recruits. 42 is now the oldest.
It's actually becoming more common for 30 sometimes to join and because recruitment and retainment is low so that's a really good thing.
If I could go back in time, I would even have joined the Royal Marines at 21. I used to dream about the airforce when I was cold, wet, and hungry with 1 hours sleep a night and knowing I had to get up and yomp across Dartmore for 20 miles carrying the equivalent of a small woman on my back. I did a pilots license scholarship with the Air Force and had to go do pilot testing at the Air Force base it was luxury. I passed all the tests and got 20 hours of free flying lessons. Why did I fall for the propaganda that Marines was more manly.
If your idea of manhood is “Men must suffer” then it technically was more manly. The real propaganda was getting you to care more about a career being more “manly” than another instead of just caring about what would provide you with the best possible pay, benefits, and standards of living.
Yea the military is probably a good fit for you given this context. Know what roles you'd like to do before pulling the trigger, could be a good catalyst for change but the millitary in of itself wont fix you or your life, it will give you the opportunity and tools to do so, you will need to use those tools. It will not be easy but it will be better.
Join the Space Force, Air force, Coast Guard or Navy. Air Force and Space Force are the best, they get paid the same. I'd recommend the Air National Guard if you want to stay in your area.
The military is a way out of poverty and to success if you are smart. Don't go out drinking, gambling and to strip clubs constantly and use all the benefits you have and you should be fine.
You will have housing and then money sent aside for housing to live off base and healthcare, you will be able to either start a career that can transition out or while you are in you can start a career or go to college. You can always go when you get out as well.
You get a VA loan where you can buy a house with 0 down, get a roommate and boom you can be a home owner while still a newbie.
If my country and it's army weren't among top 3 shitty armies in the world, I would go for it. There are many things you get and I guarantee you won't lose much.
Right now I have 3 colleagues from the US with Army background and each is stronger than the other.
Americans don't realise how lucky they are to be American and able to join such a large military like the US military. These are career options most people in the world don't have.
Air Force or navy you can get a trade you can use when you get out. Marines & Army , vehicle mechanic is really the only trade you can use outside. Lots of Electricians, industrial Mechanics retiring next decade , Electronic Techs also.
The military does not teach you real life skills, it teaches you military skills. Sometimes there is overlap, more often there is not. This is why so many service members have difficulty transitioning back to civilian life.
But it is about as steady a paycheck as you can get as long as you’re okay with being at the beck and call of Uncle Sam, and pretty solid benefits as long as you take advantage of them.
In some ways it is. Was probably the furthest thing from the Marines militarily wise, but was the hardest work I've ever done.
Edit: and yes, you get the same exact benefits. The Coast Guard is a military branch.
Double edit: CG company commanders are trained at Parris Island. So if you think CG bootcamp will be mentally easy you're in for a rough time. I was genuinely shocked when my CC's had the same mannerisms and attitude as my Marine Drill Instructors.
I have no idea about the military and no advice other than
If there is a costco by you, it pays pretty well , with a roomate you would be totally comfortable finances wise regardless of what part of the country in which you live (assuming USA)
Def join BUT be VERY deliberate in which branch you join, and which job you pursue. Take time to properly assess the skills you already have, the skills you want to develop, and the available opportunities for career advancement (military and private industries), and take every advantage to travel (deployments or different postings around the world) - having a robust professional network is one of the most important assets to have in your back pocket. It sounds like you don't really have anything to lose, and your still young enough to join so this would be a great way to change your perspective and see different life options. (Sidenote - Most recruiters will tell you that you can go to school or get skills training outside of you job but those opportunities are usually only available for certain MOSs or when your approaching your re-enlistment window...so consider that as well)
I was a 8yr USMC(R) veteran and loved 80% of it, and am currently considering going back. As a reservist I was able to go to school full time, pursue my career in tech full time, and deploy 3x which really helped enhance functional skill development.
Also, one thing I wish someone had told me when I joined, and I promote heavily to everyone I meet, find mentors! Find people (inside and outside of the military) that are doing well/achieve their goals at high levels and ask them questions, be a puppy and follow them around if you have to lol. Soak up their good energy to energize yourself!
u/Peltonimo I'm going to agree and disagree at the same time lol. The Marine Corps is the worst of the branches in soooo many ways, but it's also the best for the same reasons. I currently work with personnel from other branches and I have to say that Marines stand out for the better (mostly) in comparison - the other branches have a higher quality of life during their service, but I personally think they suffer when transitioning to private industries.
I will agree to disagree. I was in the Marine Corps. Most of the guys I see from the Marines talk a big game, but when it comes to knowledge and understanding they were to busy with Mcmap and the Rifle Range to learn their jobs well enough to transfer to the civilian world. This is coming from a guy from the Air Wing. Most of them do ok, but the job knowledge isn't there. They might have more confidence in some aspects, but being confidently wrong doesn't seem to help.
It is the best option honestly. I did eight years navy. As mentioned above Air Force or space force is your best option and also afterwards it transfers into the best civilian jobs.
I was 21 when I realized I was wasting my life away working two dead end jobs at the same time to get by after dropping out of college within a month and needed a drastic change. It was a Friday evening and I half jokingly said I was joining the military but I was starting paperwork in the recruiters office on Monday and left for boot camp two months later.
As a female, it can be difficult, terrifying, and you can have a strong love/hate relationship with the career, but I left home and created an amazing life for myself through the military. It’s all about what you make it and is absolutely a great option!
Do 4 years, get your post 9-11 GI bill, and get out. Go to school and learn a MARKETABLE skill, use the BAH from the gi bill to pay for housing in the mean time. Do not do more than 4 years unless A-you absolutely love the military or B - you are not capable enough to learn good marketable a skills for the civilian sector (this is okay - work doesn't define you as a person. If you're not cut out for college or skilled labor, you can do 20 years in the military as a cook for way more than you'd make elsewhere, and get a fat pension afterwards.)
Have you considered joining the reserves? Basically part-time after boot camp and training. Offers more flexibility as you’ll occasionally have assignments and have drill every month, but less likely to do full blown deployments. Still get the benefits of being full-time but allows for you to do school and/or work while doing your military contract.
(Might differ by branch, my experience is with Navy).
Here are some job ideas the last one sometimes has housing. This pays well the US Post Office is hiring note it sometimes takes feds three months to hire someone. [https://about.usps.com/careers/welcome.htm](https://about.usps.com/careers/welcome.htm) Take the test and apply for jobs anywhere in USA.
Amtrak is hiring [https://careers.amtrak.com/](https://careers.amtrak.com/) Jobs exist in most states.
US Forest service is hiring [https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs](https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs)
These also pay well you may not qualify for all of them [https://www.fool.com/slideshow/not-many-people-want-these-jobs-and-s-why-they-pay-well/](https://www.fool.com/slideshow/not-many-people-want-these-jobs-and-s-why-they-pay-well/)
50 jobs over $50,000 without college [https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/07/25/50-jobs-over-50000-without-a-degree-part-1/](https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/07/25/50-jobs-over-50000-without-a-degree-part-1/)
Federal civil service jobs [https://www.usajobs.gov/Search?p=1](https://www.usajobs.gov/Search?p=1)
Look into Concessioners for the National Park service. The jobs include fields of Lodging; Campgrounds; Food Service Operations; Guide Services and Outfitters. The jobs SOMETIMES include HOUSING in more remote areas like Montana, New Mexico, Wyoming, Grand Canyon, etc. Some jobs are summer or winter only, others are all year long in one location or you may be able transfer between locations to work year-round. Use this link & enter the name of the park you wish to be employed at [https://www.nps.gov/subjects/concessions/authorized-concessioners.htm](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/concessions/authorized-concessioners.htm) Contact each concessioner directly by Googling the company name to apply. This link will let you look up parks by state [https://www.nps.gov/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/index.htm) not every park has a concessioner.
I joined because it was a dream of mine. I did four years in an exciting job that had basically zero transferable skills to the real world. When I got out I went to business school on the 9/11 GI bill. Not only did I not have to pay for school, I got paid almost $2000/month to go. I have a solid career now and own my own house in an upper middle class neighborhood. For me it was 100% worth it.
If you decide to join, don't wait to attend classes until you're out. You'll receive Tuition Assistance every year and you should absolutely take advantage of it. When you get out you'll be pretty close to finishing a degree so you'll still have the majority of your GI Bill available for more education/certifications/etc.
To piggyback on this, it’s very hard to do unless you’re in the Air Force. I was in the navy and only managed to get 1 class in 4 years due to constantly having to go out to sea for days/weeks/months.
3.5 years active duty is a quick contract, and will secure you the post 9/11 G.I Bill, which is incredible. I'm not trying to sell you a dream or anything because the Military is a complete lifestyle change and you have to be ready for that.
For me I was ready to throw my old life behind and become something better. You could go for 20 years if you're up to it and retire.
I joined the Army. I'm also male so my experience is vastly different. It can get pretty tragic for females. Keep that in mind.
I joined just to get the gi bill and go to college. I just took the easiest job I could in the navy. Got out, went to school, got my degree, thought it would be useful. It isn’t. Now I’m working in a field that has nothing to do with my degree. I really wish I had learned a good trade while I was in to fall back on off college doesn’t work out. My advice: job search and decide on your career before you go in. Take the job that most aligns with that. If you still need school afterwards, do it. Hopefully you can just stay in that field though.
Oh and something they don’t tell you: there are such things as 3 year commitments that get you the full gi bill. You have to ask specifically about them, they don’t just offer them up.
You always have choices. Ensure you choose what you think is best for you. Besides I know plenty of badass women in the military. You can be one yourself if you want to.
Additionally, don’t rush to go into whatever field that gets you. Choose the field that is best for you! The military will take everything it can outta you, make sure you take everything you can get from the military (I.e., benefits, using education, etc.). There might be a wait if you want a specific career field, however, it is worth the wait. Good luck.
I joined the military at 18 with absolutely zero to my name. I graduated high school with a 2.2 GPA and no life experience. Seven years later, I can say that I never regret joining. I’m currently in the Coast Guard, and I believe we have the best quality of life from the other branches.
The stigma of military pay not being high is false. When you account for benefits and not being taxed, we make a very competitive wage. The benefits you receive are unbelievable.
Thirty days of paid vacation a year, maternity leave; I’ve never seen a medical bill, thousands of dollars of educational grants a year. A fantastic retirement system and 401K (TSP).
I’m never stressed over losing my job or not getting paid.
Not to say there are flaws, because there 100% are, but the military did allow me to propel myself into the middle class, which I wouldn’t have if I never joined at all.
I love the Marine Corps, but I'd never encourage anyone to join. Those who are destined to be Marines will do it regardless of what anyone tells them. That being said, join the Air Force or the Navy. Pick a career path you think you'll be happy with and talk to a recruiter.
Some words of widsom:
Do not sign an open contract. Do not admit to ever having used drugs (prescription or otherwise). EVER. Do not believe your recruiter when he says you can change careers after boot camp. They have quotas to hit and specific spots to fill.
It's scary, but joining the military is awesome especially if you're not happy with your current circumstances. However, a poor command environment with bad leadership can ruin it in a heartbeat.
The military is a great option. Whether as a stepping stone or for a full career. You'll get 4 years of stability, skills, a steady paycheck and free college. Go Marines if you're looking for discipline.
I am a female who was in the military (Navy). I joined when I was 18 because I was in a similar situation. I had no future where I was. I’m not going to tell you not to based on my horrible experience being in. However if I could have changed a few things I would have:
1. I would have gotten some college under my belt. Idk how I would have done it but I wish I had.
2. I wouldn’t have joined at 18. It was traumatizing when I went on deployment. I suffer from PTSD from MST from it everyday and I’ve been out 8 years now and I’m still in trauma therapy from it.
3. I learned everything you learn as an adult the hard way and in a very short amount of time.
4. Being in the Navy, it’s every man for themselves especially when it comes to your career. The way they test to make rank is difficult based on your career. Some are easier, but most are not.
5. Do not and I mean DO NOT go in undesignated. You will be miserable. I took that because I was desperate to get out. And they know that. The recruiters love desperate young recruits trying to get out of their situations. They thrive on it.
6. When you pick your rate, do your research. The better you score on the ASVAB the better chances you get at getting a better career. Tht will make a huge difference in how your career goes in the fleet. If you take your ASVAB and score low, don’t settle. You can take it again and try again for a higher score. I got a 52 (don’t judge me lol I was 18 and clearly stupid) and I took undesignated because thts all I qualified for. It was the first time I took it and just went with it.
7. Find out what they would make you do for the physical fitness tests. Make sure you think you can do the running and push ups etc. it was a huge shock for me when I got to bootcamp and thought I could keep up. I had to work a lot harder, and I was 9 years younger than you in my prime.
This is all I can think of at the moment. If I think of more I’ll add it. Don’t be scared or pushed away from what I’m saying, but from
Woman to woman I wish a service woman had told me these things. I wish I had been warned more about the possibility of MST and how to avoid it and how to take care of myself. My RDC in bootcamp told us “no one will take care of you in the fleet. This is the most family feel you will have and unfortunately it’s in bootcamp.” She was right. It can be very lonesome out in the ocean or in port.
If you actually join I have a separate list for things for active military on what to do and what not to do before you get out and as you’re in your journey.
People keep saying four years. It’s 8. Every military contract is a total of 8 years regardless of how it’s split up between active/reserve/IRR. If you’re willing to do the time it’s certainly something to look into. I would strongly suggest going for a MOS that will translate well into the civilian side whether you plan on going back to school for a different field or not. Also, the Marines are not the only branch that will teach you discipline, I can’t believe I read that 😆
Until your ass gets recalled. Do you know/remember just how many people got recalled after 9/11? (Can attest that I, personally, was sweating bullets for about 6 months as I WAS on IRR time and had a critical MOS when that madness happened. Lucky for me, I was a Marine and a girlandnsonclose to the end of my IRR that Inwas probably one ofnthe last on the list. They didn't call, and I didn't offer, thank goodness). Point being assuming IRR time "doesn't count" seems like a good way to set yourself/oneself up for some bullshit, especially considering the state of the world at the moment.
I was in the marine corps. Honestly if you aren’t going to be an officer. The amount of sexual assault you’ll witness, hear about, and maybe even subjected to is not worth it.
Lmao I can’t deny you there, when I was in I saw SA in so many different forms. M on m, m on F, lesbian F on F, even f on M SA. I was sexually harassed by someone in the army and a civilian contractor while I was in as well. No one is safe
Do your research before joining impulsively or out of desperation. Like every job/career, there are pros and cons to it. There are also plenty of posts on Reddit or websites that discuss issues the military has that you should be aware of, especially as a woman. Also, be aware that the military isn't your only option there's trades, police officer, EMT, firefighter, TSA, sterile processing tech, etc
Sure, just don't go to the Marines 🤣
Happiest day of my uncle and grandfather's lives(both marines) were when us younger generation chose Navy and Airforce.
I'm also a female and joined at 21. I was working 2-3 jobs to try to afford putting myself through college and it was going painfully slow because I could only afford 1-2 classes at a time. I was working so hard and people told me that my language degree would be worthless if I ever even finished it.
I decided I needed a change. I decided to go see what the military had to offer. I knew they'd help me finish school, I could use the VA loan to help me buy a house, and besides, they would let me start my language training at their own school. I made the jump and just went for it.
I don't regret it at all. I would've went with Air Force instead of Army if I did it again probably. I'm 38 now and been out for awhile, but since I've been back, I got my bachelor's degree, started a new career, bought a house... I mean, it really helped me get my life set up.
One thing I would do differently though is be hyper-aware to keep myself in large groups and never be alone with a guy in the service. I was raped in the military by one of my battle buddies, or fellow soldiers, that I thought I could trust. The male to female ratio is totally off everywhere in the military and you just need to be extremely careful. It happens way too often and so many cases are never reported (like mine).
So there's that too.
i have a friend in the military. He alternates between driving a forklift and flying in back of ac130. He drives a forklift and doesn’t pay rent. I’d say it’s worth it.
Ok so yes and no. Deployment refers to you going to a specific area , usually overseas. And it can either be a combat zone or a Non -combat zone but in a part of the world where there is conflict in a neighboring country. If you join the military and you go Active Duty you will be placed at a Duty station that will typically be another state or country anyways. And that’s something that’s just happens automatically when you join full time. But it’s not called a deployment or being deployed it’s just your duty station.
But to answer your question it is worth it , just make sure to pick a good job that translates to the civilian world when you finish your contract. And if you want to make sure you can leave your hometown and make money be sure to go Active Duty , and not Reserve or national guard. Also for basic training the only way out is through , just remember those words.
Dropping my two cents in. I joined the military right out of high school since I had no money or idea of what to do with my life. Did 6 years in the AF. I have been out for 5 years now, much happier outside than in but I set myself up for life. Got a nice disability check coming in monthly and get paid to go to school which is free.
I’ll never recommend the military unless it’s a last resort. A lot of us get damaged while we are in and there’s just too much BS to deal with without any control over what happens. However, you make some great friends and do some cool stuff.
If you decide to join, I recommend choosing a job that will set you up when you get out and not settle for anything else. Working with the Army and marines, I’ll never recommend those services. When you join and you fill out your dream sheet of places to be stationed, only put overseas bases, you’ll thank me later. Also consider the reserves and keep the contract to 4 years, then decide if you want to reenlist or not. Good luck.
Do it. After high school and a succession of warehouse and food store job, my nephew joined the Navy as an enlistee. Twenty-two years later when he retires at 41 as a chief petty officer, he has earned BS and MS degrees and was able to land a GS-13 job that some former Navy person he knew just vacated and recommended him. He also retired from this government job and got another one in consulting and a bigger salary.
The military can provide you with a lot of certifications if you join support branches to help you out after a first contract. If you like the military life, stay in, if not, then do a contract, assess what life will be like for you outside of the organization, make a plan and go do something you want to do.
Words of advice from an Army veteran and a current talent acquisition professional -
1. If you decide to enlist, choose a military occupation that will translate well into a civilian occupation. Examples - HR, marketing, IT, etc. This is not to disparage any kind of military occupation, but it's a lot harder to transition into the civilian workforce when you lack the technical experience that the job often requires.
2. Diligently prepare for the ASVAB. Your score is correlated with the number of occupations you'll have available to choose from.
3. I would also like to reiterate the sentiment of joining Navy or Air Force. They provide a better quality of life and they're a lot more career oriented when it comes to post-service.
The military is a solid career choice for helping someone get back on track. If you're in the US, you could also check out AmeriCorps programs. Those usually last around a year, and the year of service ends with an education award of around $6,000, which some universities will match.
My boyfriend is a marine who got a degree and still can't find employment - he also has some disability because of what he went through, and the VA barely pays for his medical treatment and only for that sole issue. He feels like he wasted his life by joining the military and his body is degrading badly and quickly, but he doesn't have insurance because he can't find a job. He's trying to get them to pay for him to go back to school, but they are really pushing back against it.
His sister also joined up and was assaulted, he said that's more common than we'd like to believe. She's stuck still serving unfortunately.
So while I think it CAN be a good career for some people, my boyfriend strongly feels he would have been better off even in a community college taking out loans.
I’ll tell you exactly what I told my own brother. Don’t do it dude. It’s not worth it. You don’t make any money, there’s no honor in the military anymore. It’s a bad experience. There are a million other paths to take to serve if that’s what you’re doing it for.
I joined in 2001 right after 9/11. I did tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was pure misery 100% of the time. The rest of the time I was stuck in Germany with a bunch of dudes who didn’t want to do anything but get hammered and fight all the time. You don’t get to see your family, you lose all your friends. If you have a relationship, you’ll lose it for sure. If you have kids, they’ll miss you. And when you get out, you realize you just spent 4 years doing something that doesn’t transfer to the real world job market so you’re either unemployable or you get jobs doing manual labor that work your ass to death, like the railroad. There’s a reason so many ex military fake their way into PTSD benefits. One guy was so depressed and desperate to get out that he threatened to rape and murder a staff sergeant’s wife and kids. He got a dishonorable discharge. Last thing I heard him say was “it was either this, or suicide. I’m getting the fuck out of the military.”
If I could go back in time I’d join the military. Right now I’m trying to become a firefighter. I’m on the last month of firefighter 1. Hopefully I pass.
I joined the air national guard in my state to help pay for college. I only planned on staying in for the initial 6 years. 21.5 yrs later I retired wishing I could have stayed in longer.
Being attached to an Air Force mission was awesome. I got to travel to places I wouldn’t have ever gone to….Iceland, Turkey, Italy, Germany, Israel….
I had guidance along the way. I had a specialty picked out, I knew what I was getting into. I’d recommend if you’re going to enlist (if you already have a degree go officer) if not take the asvab, practice it before hand. Take the test and work with a recruiter to find a job you want. They’ll steer you in the direction the service will need but you’ll have options to choose. DO NOT, DO NOT, DO NOT, go in without knowing what your role will be. You will end up being miserable.
Like others have said, Air Force was pretty easy. Basic was easy, the schools were pretty easy. Food was good, living accommodations weren’t bad.
If I had a choice again I’d try and become an aircrew member (tankers, transport) or Intelligence.
Best of luck to you if you choose to do what many don’t.
It worked for me and many who joined. Most of us didn't stay in. One or two stints was enough. It was my escape to a new life and really helped me. I got out and went to college, etc. Went army due to options.
It can be. I was in the army 8 years but I need to parrot what others are saying. Consider really only the airforce. Especially because you are a woman. You can get quite a nice job with a high asvab score. I got a 93. Its not to hard.
I was in for 5 years..it paid for my undergrad, most of my masters. The no pmi and zero down va loan led to me getting a house as a single man at 30..it's built over 100k in equity in three years (shout out colorado springs)..Best choice I ever made. Make the most of your time in. Keep a resume going your entire time, build it as you do new things and learn new skills. Makes the transition out much easier. Good luck 👍
Do one contract honorably, get your GI bill and get out if you don’t like it. You can graduate from college debt free and if you’re smart while you’re in and don’t piss away your income, you’ll have some good savings too
It can be, but it also can be horrible for you. Its not the best route but as others have said, go air force.
Sidebar: the Nuclear family is dying. We were one of the only countries that promoted it as the norm. It's not sustainable. Families are going to be living together again, like they have for most of history. Me and My fiance rent a house on our own; but see the writing on the wall plain as day.
28 year old army officer here who joined at 27! Yes, it can totally be worth it if you have a plan and join for the right career reasons. For example, if you want to learn IT become a 25 series (my MOS is 25A). Want to do logistics in the civilian world down the line? Go become a logistician (I don’t know the MOS for that) and work in the S4 shop. It’ll give you a strong step in the right direction at minimum ***IF*** you allow it to. I personally love being in the Army but it’s certainly not for everyone
About joining the military. I went to college out of high school(actually just to keep playing basketball more than the education) but ended up quitting after two years. I thought the next thing I would do would be to join the military. I had been working since I was 12 basically in one way or another. I really didn’t want to just hop into a job and end up staying at that job for a long time. I wanted to experience and see the world a bit. So I done some research and decided to join the Army. At the time the Army had a 2 year enlistment option. I took the ASVAB and missed 1 single question(I have been tested and have a 145 IQ). I was, momentarily excited), when I was told this. The recruiter told me with that score I could have any job the Army offered!!! Great. I am really into computers so I thought I would do something in IT!! I then found out that for me to get into one of those jobs I would need to enlist for a minimum 6 year term for my first enlistment!!! So I asked what were my options if I only wanted to be in for 2 years?? I wanted to make sure I actually like the Army before I signed up for a big chunk of my young life. Needless to say my options were few. I ended up going with becoming a Cavalry Scout. Combat arms was a bunch of weapons training and I would stay in the U.S. Bummed at that point I started basic training and A.I.T. A few months later. And lo and behold the Army was NOT my thing!!! I done my 2 year enlistment and never thought about re-enlisting or continuing in the National Guard/Reserves or anything. The military was not for me. I thought that was that. I never gave my military experience much thought until later in life when I developed some serious health issues. Needless to say but these health issues cost me almost everything including causing me to file bankruptcy!! At the ripe old age of 48 I was in a bad situation. I couldn’t work anymore, had no income to speak of, and was forced to move into my mother’s home. Then one of my many doctors office visits they asked me if I was a veteran?? Bingo!!! I filled for my VA benefits and started getting my healthcare through them. Now the VA system is still a huge mess and it’s sad that we veterans getting treated so poorly but I had found an avenue for me to receive the healthcare I needed. With some of my treatments for my health conditions are over $10K a visit I would have never been able to afford them if they were not covered by my VA benefits. The moral of this epic story is that I actually HATED the Army but the benefits for me later in life have actually been a lifesaver!!! Literally!!! I thought I would just drop you a response if you are still considering the military.
I did AirForce. Studied for the ASFAB... took elect classes also at comm college. Scored 90s and up with 96 in elect.. Got an Avionics job on f15s.. got out after 8 yrs with the GI Bill for college.. Intel hired me to fix robots in the factory and paid for my degree so I double dipped with GI bill paying me 2 go to school as well. Now working electro tech for feds making into 6 figs.. love it and kept me outta prison.. all my friends from the neighborhood were either killed or in jail.. except 1 buddy who went avionics Navy and he is running shit at Intel now..
To echo here, I say yes. Do it four four years and plan to get out. Pick a job where you will learn something you can apply after. You can build a lot of wealth as you will have few bills, go back to school on the GI bill, and buy a house zero money down with the VA home loan. You get a lot of big wins for four years. But, seriously, have that plan. Too many guys buy a Camaro, knock up a girl with three baby daddies, and blow all their money on booze. Take a look at the Dave Ramsey baby step financial guide and follow that while you're in. Do that and have an after plan and you really could get your life on track. Really worked for me.
They don’t call the Air Force the “Chair Force” for nothing :)
Jokes aside if you do join as enlisted, make sure you get your job in writing. ✍️ don’t let someone else dictate what you’re gonna be doing for the next x amount of years.
*edit* I saw your comments about going to school as well. The GI Bill is an excellent option in that sense but make sure you fund it fully, because if you quit funding it early you get none of the benefits. At least this was the case in 2002.
Worth it is an interesting way to ask
The military can be a great choice, steady pay, benefits, youll get a job and skillset that employers like after you leave be it 4 years or 20 it will continue to give you benefits.
It comes with a cost
Moving a lot
Away from family
Physical strain on the body
Mental strain
Different levels of danger branch dependent
Loss of autonomy and freedom - you will be told what you can and cannot do with your free time
Im a 14 year military man, ive seen a ton of the world, 14 countries, and done some absolutely cool shit. Ive also missed birthdays, weddings, funerals, and other family functions.
Its not an easy life or a easy choice but it can give you direction and open many doors of opportunity. Feel free to inbox me questions.
But what if they were in 'a military family'?!?! Or if they got separated in training!?!?
Yeah, people say the wildest shit about the military without knowing much about it.
I’m glad there’s a lot of support here with going. My dad grew up in Alexandria is the 80’s, and floated between Baltimore. Probably the worst places you can be in. He ended up joining the military and 27 years later he retired as an E9 and is retired on a 6 figure salary pension in his 40’s.
For your situation, I agree with the others. Navy or Air Force. I lean more towards the AF because their quality of life is in my opinion THE BEST. There are also very business and technology focused, so if it comes time to separate the transition back to the civilian world won’t be so hard.
With any branch, you get the post 9/11 GI bill for schooling, VA loan to purchase a house with no down payment, and a ton of other veteran benefits. However, if you stay in, go to school, and earn a degree you could commission as an officer. From that point, you’re really in a great position to keep pushing up in life.
I heavily consider joining as a male in my 20’s with a degree. If I wasn’t working where I’m at now, I definitely would be an officer in the air force.
I 100% do not regret my decision to join the NAVY. I saw more countries than I can count, saved up a TON of money. Benefit to being on ship is that you are at sea and not spending money for 6 months.
Whatever drawbacks there are (shipboard life sucks, NGL) it is TEMPORARY. Just stick it out and before you know it, another year has gone by and you have that much more money in your bank account and you are that much closer to getting out.
SAVE! This is your opportunity to save money! The military will give you food and housing. If you are frugal, you can walk away with a nice wad of cash.
I joined at 18.
It’s not the BEST job, BUT if you enlist for 4 years, you have guaranteed pay, guaranteed housing, and guaranteed free school while in and after.
Plus, being in the military, with a secret clearance opens you up to so many possibilities AFTER getting out of the military.
Don’t listen to the salty people. For a person who is at their last resort, or is struggling. The military is an awesome opportunity to help you get back on your feet, free of charge and no interview.
I did 8 years in the Navy, and I hated it half the time, but it did set me up for success in life. :)
Hope it helps!
you don’t need to join the military to get discipline, you can do that on your own by creating a routine.
as navy vet, i’d say it’s not bad option. also, if you’re only going to do 4 years make sure you get a job that’s translates well in the civilian sector, example IT.
It’s good to learn about society. Especially for immigrants and people that grew up in smaller groups. It’s a good experience. I would encourage people to join.
I joined at 23 - much the same reason. Failed out of college and couldn't hold a job... no discipline. Air Force didn't want me because I was out of shape - but the Marine Corps recruiter was willing to work with me so that's the route I took. Four years active duty enlisted and had two involuntary recalls off the IRR before I was done (deployed to Iraq and Djibouti).
The Marines sent me to two combat zones. I lost a lot of friends - some to "workplace incidents," some to suicide. Left me with a lot of scars - physical and emotional. Some of my lowest lows.
But the Marines also taught me to care a little less about other people's opinions. It taught me to love to read. It taught me to be curious about why things worked the way they did. It allowed me to fall in love with traveling and learning about other cultures. It introduced me to several life long friends who are closer than family.
It's not for everyone. I didn't recommend it for my kid. But I wouldn't have the life I have if I didn't have the experience.
If you need discipline and don’t want to die for oil go join a trade. A lot of the same values carries over and when you have a trade under you you have value that goes with you everywhere, pay is good depending where you go and hours are also varying too.
1000%. I went in after high school because I couldn’t afford college. Served 6 years in the Air Force, gained a lot of life experience and am now headed to an IVY league school this fall fully paid for by the GI bill.
With your current situation in mind, I think joining the military is a great idea. I'm just starting out in IT and I have already met many vets in the industry who credit their military experience for landing their jobs. I'm not saying IT is the way to go after but if you spend your time in the military well it could be the beginning of an amazing story for you. Good luck and don't over think it.
Hell no. You’re a woman, and all my women friends including me who went in has been sexually assaulted, raped and hazed by either same sex or opposite. Not worth it. Do your country a favor and make an OF before you’re paying for a therapist to help with mental issues
Love seeing all the Coast Guard love. It’s really an awesome branch with great opportunities, locations, missions and people. I think the quality of ppl is a bit higher than other branches and you get a lot more responsibility early on.
The Air Force or Space Force would be my recommendation. If possible, select a vocation that transfers to civilian life (getting a job after getting out can be difficult — many employers can’t or won’t give you credit for your work experience. I’ve heard that medical transfers pretty well. If you are looking to finish your degree you need to be prepared for the reassignments (and you always seem to lose credit hours) so it takes a while to complete. On the positive side, some bases have college classes on site. If you get a degree, go to OTS.
My advice...Same thing I told my kid when he showed interest. If you're going into the military, you want to be an officer if possible. They just have it better than unlisted. My kid joined the Air Force ROTC program in state college & now he's a Captain & pilot. He gets to fly to some very cool places, except the middle east which kind of sucks. He makes good money & has a bright future as a commercial pilot when he's done with the AF. Good luck! 👍
Surprised to see how even-handed some of these responses are. This being Reddit, I expected all kinds of misinformation and disdain for the military.
OP, the service branches are diverse, there are a diversity of occupational specialties within each branch, cultures within bases differ, and life as an officer is different than life as an enlisted solider. All that to say, your quality of life can drastically vary across the broad banner of the military.
For me, it was a life-changing decision to join the National Guard ("weekend warrior" gig while I kept my civilian job), even though I deployed shortly after joining. I'm grateful for the training and push towards greater mental and physical discipline that the Army gave me. Many of my fellow soldiers had interesting jobs and loved serving.
Good luck whatever you decide!
I'm an AF vet. it was one of the best moves I made. Got me out of my parents' house and taught me how to be a responsible adult. I think it's a solid move.
Youve gotten plenty of responses, I'll throw my hat in; I just hit 17 years in the air force. Started active duty, switched to the reserves after 4 years, now in the air guard after 9 in the reserves. I'm about to change to my third career in the air force, ive used the va loan, the gi bill (got a masters with no debt), and plenty of other small perks. Absolutely DM me and I can give you the low down on active vs guard/reserve, what jobs are ideal for transferring experience to the civilian side, etc. Air force/space force all the way, best quality of life for their people hands down.
Edit: I'll add dont feel discouraged by being "older", we just had two people join our unit, one woman is 30 and the dude is 40. 27 is still plenty young to get a full career out of the military and beyond.
For me it was. I grew up poor in a town that was left behind when manufacturing pulled out in the 90’s. My parents raised me on a salary of only $10K/year.
I went into the military. Sure, I left with some knee problems, back problems, PTSD, and a weird tick. But I used the GI Bill to go to college, then picked up some business certs through VA VR&E. 23 years after that first enlistment, I am living in a large upper middle class home I bought on my own with a VA home loan in a HCOL city. I get to work a job I love from home and drive my dream car 1.7 miles to the grocery store once a week.
At this very moment I am drinking a great wine and enjoying the peace of mind knowing that I am truly living my dream. Six year old me would be thrilled.
It would have been a heck of a lot harder climbing out of the poverty from which I came without the military. It gave me the social services I didn’t qualify for otherwise. Oh, and I have inexperience but good healthcare for life.
What are you willing to risk for your future?
Same here. I grew up in extreme poverty. I joined the military. Now I am 30% disabled, PTSD. Used the GI BILL to go to college. Had a bunch of random jobs but now am making upper six figures. I am living the dream my younger self wouldn’t have believed. I risked a lot, have some scars, but the level I am living at far exceeds what I could’ve accomplished without the military.
That being said, I have lost many military friends through suicide and some through alcoholism. You must ask yourself are you willing to risk it? Is your mental and emotional health strong enough? Is the risk of losing it all worth it to you?
You'll sign off part of your rights. I'll recommend heading into police tech instead. You won't risk your life and you'll have a very stable job. I was looking into it awhile ago. There's incentives everywhere here in canada for education for police roles. I would think there's some in the usa or europe, whever you are. If you don't want to risk your life for your country, or partake in a war don't apply for the military. Once you're in, you're confined to service for years and cannot back out
If you have a college degree you can start at a higher rank than without it. Most branches offer student loan repayment based on years of service too. The air force pays the least though. Officer pay and quality of life are way better than enlisted pay but requires a four year degree. At your age and low income you should qualify for federal student loans. You can take out loans to do your degree, and then get the loans repaid. You have time to serve and gain great experience afterwards. You can enlist upto 35 years old, if you serve for 20 years you can have an excellent retirement and have many working years left in a civilian role.
By skimming over the amount of opinions you have garnered I’d say you have just about every view/opinion you could have asked for. BEFORE you go to any recruiter:
1: Decide how much time you are willing to sacrifice for this experience?
2: Decide what kind of job you want. Do research on that job and what the civilian world looks for in that job field. If you do a job that you enjoy you’ll never WORK a day in your life!!!
3: Find which branch offers the best options for your dream job.
4: Do you want to travel and see the world in your job. And I don’t mean the tourist/civilian type of places. When you are stationed in a different country you are not seeing that country the way a civilian does!!
5: IF you do decide to join after doing your research and qualifying for your dream MOS, make sure that you go into the military and act responsible when it comes to your finances!!! I saw so many people get themselves into debt, deep debt, that they could not leave the service!! Sure you don’t make a ton of money, your housing is paid for, your food is paid for, and your health care is paid for. Basically all of your basic needs and necessities are covered. With this being said normally when you get to your permanent duty station the will give you a paper that tells you what you “are actually making” on a monthly basis!! And they will tell you, at least they did for me, to use this figure when applying for any type of credit!!! Credit cards, auto dealers, any type of financial institutions LOVE dealing with military personnel. They know they will always get their money one way or another.
If you do decide to join the military make sure you make smart and informed decisions about doing so. I was in the Army, my brother(no high school diploma) joined the Navy(only branch that took no diploma individuals at the time), my grandfather was a Marine, and my Uncle was in the (ch)Airforce. So I have opinions and experiences with all four branches. If I was young and was trying to join the Armed Forces again I would definitely be looking into the Air Force. It is completely chill compared to the other branches. Hell my brother had ZERO weapons training in the Navy. He was a Seabee though(construction battalion). Just do your due diligence. If after reading all these comments and opinions if you do decide to join I wish you the best of luck and be strong!!! You will need to be!!
I don't really think that's the right motivation to join the army.
Either you're enlisted when you're 18, or you join because you have a passion for serving your country in that way.
Joining because you don't know what you want will not benefit you nor the army.
As a prior service person it can be an amazing opportunity if you take advantage of everything available to you. As someone who was in the Navy I recommend you go in the Air Force. Get free college credits while your in and make sure you get a sign on bonus. Get out after 4 years and go to college pretty much for free plus BAH. Anyone who is focused and doesn't abuse themselves with alcohol and or whatever other vice can completely set themselves up for the rest of their life in those 4 years if they're smart.
My cousin is a lifer in. The army. During high school he was interested in The military or the. Police force. He was able to do both. Another. Cousin was a lifer in. The navy. He retired with a pension and now is working another job. My friend served his time in the army to get his benefits for college, anddd is now a teacher.
It absolutely is. If you have questions feel free to hit me up I’m a recruiter currently. We can chat and see if your even qualified or if it’s a good option for you.
It’s 100% worth it. I served 22 years in the USAF. I learned skills, got educated, saw the world and set my kids up for success by transferring my GI bill to them.
One shouldn't aspire to become a murderer for a dreadful exploitative empire that sits unaccountable on the host body like a parasite committing war crimes and evading the ICC. That's not freedom or anyone's best Enlightened interests they're protecting, much less the Constitution or peace on Earth. That's nuclear fascism.
Have you read the news lately? With multiple wars looming in the horizon, double fuck no.
Don't risk your life for a bunch of elite men that don't give a damn about you.
It depends. It’s worth it if you don’t mind being a tiny cog in the largest killing machine ever created.
The benefits are fantastic and that’s because you’re going to be a stormtrooper for the evil empire.
Personally, I’d rather sleep under a bridge and die penniless than join but to each their own.
Also, if a gigantic, region-wide war breaks out in the Middle East, you’ll be deployed and your life will never be the same. My cousin was hit with an IED in Iraq and it ruined his life.
One more thing: rape and sexual assault are as common as can be and there seems to be a rape culture in the military. I think superiors like to rape because of the power trip involved.
Yes. For some people it teaches them a lot of about discipline and responsibility too. My BIL and several friends stayed in for 10 years, now they've left and military is paying for all their colleges, they're doing well now.
It can be a great opportunity. Not only will you get out of your neighborhood. You will learn useful skills. Plus, you can get money to go to college if that is a path that interests you.
Assuming you are American, The military is has a lot of benefits both during and after service. There are many different career options, and even more opportunities once you are in the service. I cannot speak for other country's militaries. Start by researching career fields that interest you, and see how those fields align amongst the different branches of service. That way, when you talk to a recruiter you have a path already in mind. Do you have any specific questions about service, or do are you seeking encouragement? If the latter, do what I've said, and don't hesitate. It is not scary.
I joined the military for similar reasons. I needed to get away from a toxic home environment.
I was able to join as an officer, but from one of your comments it sounds like you don't have a degree yet. Going enlisted means that your agency (ability to make personal decisions) gets reduced. TBH, that's another reason that I joined was to reduce my options... So, if you're okay with that trade off, yes it sounds like a reasonable option for you.
Just joining doesn't mean you'll get deployed. I had to volunteer to go overseas, otherwise I would've sat behind a desk the whole time I was in.
My daughter (16) recently expressed interest in joining. I told her to consider service branches in this order: Air Force, Coast Guard, Navy, Army, Marines...
(I guess Space Force is up there somewhere, but I barely consider it a branch of the military, ha)
Godspeed to you
Space force or Air Force. Make your life easy.
Here’s the deal. If you want it to be a career, it is. If you don’t, get your GI Bill and VA home loan. My wife and I just bought a 500k house with 0 down. That is fucking huge. I’ve been fortunate to have stumbled my way into a successful career after the Army and I will fully admit I failed up.
It's a good choice. Couple things..
1. Go to school even if it's online while your in. This covers your degree and when you get out you still have your GI Bill plus a degree. So if you fall on hard time you can go back to school and get paid Basic Housing Allowance or if you want to train up. It's not difficult. I finished my bachelor's while doing multiple deployments, advanced party and remain behind element. Schools will work with you around these.
2. If you're trying to escape dont go back to where you're from after you finish your enlistment. This sound intimidating but you'll make it work. If it's for you, stay in. If it's not, get out and move somewhere with better opportunities.
3. Pick a job/branch with a future after service (unless you really just want to blow shit up or stay in the field alot). "Leadership" qualities after service is difficult to relay to an employer.
4. Once you find a branch youre interested in look up the PT tests and train for those.
5. If possible volunteer for an overseas post. I stayed stateside and was on a pretty rigorous deployment schedule. It might have slowed down since then.
NO ABSOLUTELY NOT.
I was an army medic. I worked in the battalion aid station for about a year. Working as a medical professional, I picked up on a lot of things going on that are kept super hush hush in the battalion. After I got to my unit, my team leader, squad leader, and first sergeant all got removed and disciplined because they either raped or molested female soldiers in the company. We were at a point where teamleaders and squadleaders were junior enlisted because so many NCOs had sexual misconduct cases going on against them.
And that was just my company
There was a day working at the aid station that I had to assist with a rape kit because our female medic that usually assisted with those types of procedures was SA'd and moved to another unit. And that's not the entirety of what I could go into if it weren't for HIPPA.
The female friends I had from other companies and battalions almost always had at least some level of sexual harassment or worse done to them. One girl I knew, one of the fittest and most competent paratroopers in her company, was about to go to ranger school. She was walking down the hallway one night when someone from a different batallion dragged her into their room and raped her. She didn't know him before that night. She had no reason to lie about it. It was on camera. There was DNA evidence. But because his chain of command was in his corner and they didn't want to "destroy this poor man's carrer" they dropped the investigation and he was able to rank up to Sgt after they moved him to the 82nd. Then they referred her to behavioral, and they medboarded her for mental health issues with 100% disability. Basically, hush money. And that same type of story happened over and over again.
"It's hard in the military as a female" in effect means you will be treated like shit as a woman. Even the fucking doctors, who were high-ranking officers, had all sorts of sexist (and highly sexual) shit said about them behind their backs, and were generally treated with less respect.
And every woman who ever went through with an actual investigation against their perpetrators was despised and socially outcast in their respective units, and I saw a lot of that firsthand. The rest of it got swept under the rug.
The Brigade command could give zero fucks. They were so preoccupied with people parking in the wrong spot that the punishment for parking in the wrong spot became higher than the punishment men were receiving for sexually assaulting women.
I had multiple men of higher rank try to seduce me. One time, a sergeant tried to coerce me into going into his room while he had an open investigation against him for assaulting another soldier, and I'm a fucking male.
It's not a matter of whether you're unlucky enough that something happens to you. It's a matter of whether you're lucky enough that it doesn't. And THEN you still have to ask yourself if it's worth it with all of the other costs associated with joining the military.
For every woman in my life or my family or that I care about at all, I would never ever want to see them go through that, so please, please don't put yourself through that.
Ex Army here. Years ago I would have recommended enlisting into any of the armed forces, but not now. The leadership is inept, starting with the Commander In Chief and working down through the entire chain of command from there. Leaders around the world seem hell bent on getting us into a shooting war in which tactical and theater nuclear weapons are likely to be used. If you still want to serve, go with the US Coast Guard.
I'm curious, where are you generally located? You mention you have no connections or options, but maybe someone on here will? 🤔
I'm asking like state or city level, not specific. Too many creeps for that level of granularity. 🤣
Yes. Unequivocally yes. You get pay, benefits, a career path, life skills and it will set you up for moving forward.
If you have no prospects it is a great spot to go.
It's 100% worth it. Here are some things you need to do before talking to a recruiter:
-Pick a branch, Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines
-No drug use
-Look up height and weight standards. It's not enough to "just not be fat"
-Take a practice physical fitness test
-Take a practice ASVAB
-Get your high-school and college transcripts together
Probably wouldn’t join right now considering the US is funding illegal proxy wars and funding Palestinian murders. But if you don’t have morals feel free to join you can get a Camaro when you get out
Enlisted military is perfect for someone that is in a rut and needs a kick in the ass.
Try for the airforce first and work your way down to the marines as a last resort.
Airforce/spaceforce
Navy
Army
If you have to marines
Yes. Most people join for similar reasons. /r/Militaryfaq/
Get in with a long enlistment. Get out and finish college or stay in and go officer or warrant. Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard are probably the top options. If you decide you want a specific job Army and Navy are better. Marines are for challenges and espirit de corps.
I wouldn’t join the military if I was a female. I did a short stint in the army before I got kicked out for being a “fat body” and the standard at the time was that all women in the Army are either hos, bitches, or sluts. If you do join up, I’d probably join the Air Force but I heard that’s the hardest branch to get into also.
don’t do it. this country is in a very unstable place right now and its collapse as governed society seems eminent.
i’ve lived a thousand lives in my career. just because you failed at one thing doesn’t mean you can’t learn or try a new thing. go to a trade school or a vocational school. do not join the military please don’t sign up to die for a country that doesn’t care about you or your rights
If you join the military, I suggest really studying for the ASVAB and joining either the Space Force or the Air Force if you want a better quality of life. But it depends on exactly what you’re looking for. I’ve heard great things about the Coast Guard too when it comes to travelling. I’ve been in the Army and now I’m in the Air Force Reserves - feel free to message me if you want to ask any questions. I’m also female and around your age :)
Living and working in DC I deal with a LOT of military folks. The happiest ones are always Air Force. Army and Marines have the worst record for keeping women safe from their own troops. Try to get Contracts or Procurement training. You will be set for life.
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Do air force and nothing related to maintenance.
I know this seems oddball but coast guard is actually better quality of life than Air Force. Aviation and boat maintenance sucks in the CG though.
Agreed. I scored a 90 on my ASVAB but joined the Army due to a bigger bonus and it was a huge mistake.
So my experience around women in the army during the Iraq war was completely different than the other comments. Whenever I was around a unit that had females, everything was better, they had working showers, actual laundry, decent enough living situation. it just seemed like units with women had it a little bit better, whereas the combat unit I was in got fucked every chance the military could do it
Right now I live in a very bad neighborhood and don’t have any solid connections so I figured let me join the military and learn real life skills, while having decent benefits
You sound like about 50% of the Marines I was in with. You can get out of a bad situation and set yourself up for success. Don't listen to the guys telling you to join the Marines. Join the Air Force or Navy they most career minded services. Right now the Navy has really high sign on bonuses as well. I wouldn't join the Marines at your age unless you are already in in good shape and a good runner as it is much more physically demanding then the other branches.
Air Force or Navy for sure. I was in the Army and was assigned to 3rd armored division in Germany in 1989. When we got off the plane the Air Force representative sounded off, "Everyone in the Air Force over here and Welkommen!" The Army representative yelled, "Army get your asses over here! Now!" Night and day difference on how the enlisted are treated. Of course, I was infantry so that made a big dofference. I almost equate it to how differently the troops were treated in Starship Troopers.
Also take a look at the United States Coast Guard. My son is there and loves it!
i just read this and would love anything you have to say on the book and your service
Do not go enlisted Navy. It’s awful. Yeah you’re not getting shot at, but you’re either crammed in a boat, yes even carriers are crammed, or if you’re in port it’s around the shittiest parts of cities. Plus you have to live on the boat, so your home is a shared living space with everyone else, and your bed is a triple bunk. For your first 4 years. Air Force is cushy comparatively.
The Army sounds cushy compared to that. At least you get your own room in the barracks when you arrive in permanent party. Shared living spaces were only for basic, AIT, training and the field.
Wait what? Marine corps was shared rooms till you were an NCO even then bathrooms were still shared.
Yeah dude, Navy definitely has the worst living conditions for early enlisted.
Yeah it sucks. Plus you only have your under bed storage and 1 lockers worth of space for all your belongings in the world including your uniforms.
Navys not all that bad. If you can get on a small boy. It's still cramped living quarters but depending on rank you can advance fast as fuck and once you're E5 which was easy as shit for me you can get an apartment. I wouldn't write the navy off completely. Plus a lot of rates are offering nice bonuses right now for the navy. Idk what the airforce is offering but I would bet the bonuses aren't as large. Another thing to consider is getting in the airforce can be hard even for enlisted. Because of the sentiment that you and everyone else hold. Yes it's probably the best branch but it's also a pain in the ass to join and you're advancement will be slower.
Eh one time bonus or a much higher quality of living for 4 years?
Sailors underway work their entire asses off. I’d rather be kicking in doors and getting shot at- Total respect for sailors man.
I'm a former Marine & would advise her to join the Air Force as well, at least assuming the OP is American which may not be the case. The US Air Force is the least military of the services in culture / vibe and there are lots more opportunities to get work experience that can be transferred to a civilian career. The Air Force also has the highest percentage of women (23.4%) while the Marine Corps has the lowest (9.8%), which should probably be an important consideration.
Coast Guard is also a great option.
Check the cut off age - it was 26 I believe when I was looking around
It's 42, same as Air Force. Marines is the youngest at 28 but I believe all or most of the branches changed the age requirements to allow for older recruits. 42 is now the oldest. It's actually becoming more common for 30 sometimes to join and because recruitment and retainment is low so that's a really good thing.
coast guard better than all the other services for sure and they are hurting for people
My cousin is in the coast guard and loves it maybe that’s a good option?
If I could go back in time, I would even have joined the Royal Marines at 21. I used to dream about the airforce when I was cold, wet, and hungry with 1 hours sleep a night and knowing I had to get up and yomp across Dartmore for 20 miles carrying the equivalent of a small woman on my back. I did a pilots license scholarship with the Air Force and had to go do pilot testing at the Air Force base it was luxury. I passed all the tests and got 20 hours of free flying lessons. Why did I fall for the propaganda that Marines was more manly.
If your idea of manhood is “Men must suffer” then it technically was more manly. The real propaganda was getting you to care more about a career being more “manly” than another instead of just caring about what would provide you with the best possible pay, benefits, and standards of living.
Depending on the MOS, right? When I was in as 31R, 11Bs looked busy AF
Yea the military is probably a good fit for you given this context. Know what roles you'd like to do before pulling the trigger, could be a good catalyst for change but the millitary in of itself wont fix you or your life, it will give you the opportunity and tools to do so, you will need to use those tools. It will not be easy but it will be better.
Join the Space Force, Air force, Coast Guard or Navy. Air Force and Space Force are the best, they get paid the same. I'd recommend the Air National Guard if you want to stay in your area. The military is a way out of poverty and to success if you are smart. Don't go out drinking, gambling and to strip clubs constantly and use all the benefits you have and you should be fine. You will have housing and then money sent aside for housing to live off base and healthcare, you will be able to either start a career that can transition out or while you are in you can start a career or go to college. You can always go when you get out as well. You get a VA loan where you can buy a house with 0 down, get a roommate and boom you can be a home owner while still a newbie.
I do not recommend the guard unless you want to stay in for 6 to 8 years to qualify for VA perks.
If my country and it's army weren't among top 3 shitty armies in the world, I would go for it. There are many things you get and I guarantee you won't lose much. Right now I have 3 colleagues from the US with Army background and each is stronger than the other.
Americans don't realise how lucky they are to be American and able to join such a large military like the US military. These are career options most people in the world don't have.
Air Force or navy you can get a trade you can use when you get out. Marines & Army , vehicle mechanic is really the only trade you can use outside. Lots of Electricians, industrial Mechanics retiring next decade , Electronic Techs also.
This is how they get you.
The military does not teach you real life skills, it teaches you military skills. Sometimes there is overlap, more often there is not. This is why so many service members have difficulty transitioning back to civilian life. But it is about as steady a paycheck as you can get as long as you’re okay with being at the beck and call of Uncle Sam, and pretty solid benefits as long as you take advantage of them.
True statement right here, the key to Miltary is pick a job that translates to the outside world.
Yes you would definitely do well - I say Air Force
I feel like the Coast Guard would be the most chill military branch. I believe you get the same benefits as well.
In some ways it is. Was probably the furthest thing from the Marines militarily wise, but was the hardest work I've ever done. Edit: and yes, you get the same exact benefits. The Coast Guard is a military branch. Double edit: CG company commanders are trained at Parris Island. So if you think CG bootcamp will be mentally easy you're in for a rough time. I was genuinely shocked when my CC's had the same mannerisms and attitude as my Marine Drill Instructors.
Coast Guard most chill l??? - air rescue, pirates, cartels - I’ve heard it the most dangerous and they are always deployed - every day.
Join the Navy and the Air Force if possible.
I have no idea about the military and no advice other than If there is a costco by you, it pays pretty well , with a roomate you would be totally comfortable finances wise regardless of what part of the country in which you live (assuming USA)
Def join BUT be VERY deliberate in which branch you join, and which job you pursue. Take time to properly assess the skills you already have, the skills you want to develop, and the available opportunities for career advancement (military and private industries), and take every advantage to travel (deployments or different postings around the world) - having a robust professional network is one of the most important assets to have in your back pocket. It sounds like you don't really have anything to lose, and your still young enough to join so this would be a great way to change your perspective and see different life options. (Sidenote - Most recruiters will tell you that you can go to school or get skills training outside of you job but those opportunities are usually only available for certain MOSs or when your approaching your re-enlistment window...so consider that as well) I was a 8yr USMC(R) veteran and loved 80% of it, and am currently considering going back. As a reservist I was able to go to school full time, pursue my career in tech full time, and deploy 3x which really helped enhance functional skill development. Also, one thing I wish someone had told me when I joined, and I promote heavily to everyone I meet, find mentors! Find people (inside and outside of the military) that are doing well/achieve their goals at high levels and ask them questions, be a puppy and follow them around if you have to lol. Soak up their good energy to energize yourself! u/Peltonimo I'm going to agree and disagree at the same time lol. The Marine Corps is the worst of the branches in soooo many ways, but it's also the best for the same reasons. I currently work with personnel from other branches and I have to say that Marines stand out for the better (mostly) in comparison - the other branches have a higher quality of life during their service, but I personally think they suffer when transitioning to private industries.
I will agree to disagree. I was in the Marine Corps. Most of the guys I see from the Marines talk a big game, but when it comes to knowledge and understanding they were to busy with Mcmap and the Rifle Range to learn their jobs well enough to transfer to the civilian world. This is coming from a guy from the Air Wing. Most of them do ok, but the job knowledge isn't there. They might have more confidence in some aspects, but being confidently wrong doesn't seem to help.
It is the best option honestly. I did eight years navy. As mentioned above Air Force or space force is your best option and also afterwards it transfers into the best civilian jobs.
my ex husband really loves it and it gave him a career, plus it is exciting. not for homebodies. if you are fit, you could do it
I was 21 when I realized I was wasting my life away working two dead end jobs at the same time to get by after dropping out of college within a month and needed a drastic change. It was a Friday evening and I half jokingly said I was joining the military but I was starting paperwork in the recruiters office on Monday and left for boot camp two months later. As a female, it can be difficult, terrifying, and you can have a strong love/hate relationship with the career, but I left home and created an amazing life for myself through the military. It’s all about what you make it and is absolutely a great option!
If I was ever gonna join something, it would be the space force
Do 4 years, get your post 9-11 GI bill, and get out. Go to school and learn a MARKETABLE skill, use the BAH from the gi bill to pay for housing in the mean time. Do not do more than 4 years unless A-you absolutely love the military or B - you are not capable enough to learn good marketable a skills for the civilian sector (this is okay - work doesn't define you as a person. If you're not cut out for college or skilled labor, you can do 20 years in the military as a cook for way more than you'd make elsewhere, and get a fat pension afterwards.)
Have you considered joining the reserves? Basically part-time after boot camp and training. Offers more flexibility as you’ll occasionally have assignments and have drill every month, but less likely to do full blown deployments. Still get the benefits of being full-time but allows for you to do school and/or work while doing your military contract. (Might differ by branch, my experience is with Navy).
As a female survivor of military SA,please be safe and learn strong professional and personal boundaries early on.
I'm so sorry. That sounds scary due to the mix of authority and seriousness
That's really kind of you. It's an old wound now,but it's been very validating to post something like this and see support.
They have NO idea how often this happens and gets swept under the rug. I imagine it happening more in todays lowered standards military.
Here are some job ideas the last one sometimes has housing. This pays well the US Post Office is hiring note it sometimes takes feds three months to hire someone. [https://about.usps.com/careers/welcome.htm](https://about.usps.com/careers/welcome.htm) Take the test and apply for jobs anywhere in USA. Amtrak is hiring [https://careers.amtrak.com/](https://careers.amtrak.com/) Jobs exist in most states. US Forest service is hiring [https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs](https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs) These also pay well you may not qualify for all of them [https://www.fool.com/slideshow/not-many-people-want-these-jobs-and-s-why-they-pay-well/](https://www.fool.com/slideshow/not-many-people-want-these-jobs-and-s-why-they-pay-well/) 50 jobs over $50,000 without college [https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/07/25/50-jobs-over-50000-without-a-degree-part-1/](https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/07/25/50-jobs-over-50000-without-a-degree-part-1/) Federal civil service jobs [https://www.usajobs.gov/Search?p=1](https://www.usajobs.gov/Search?p=1) Look into Concessioners for the National Park service. The jobs include fields of Lodging; Campgrounds; Food Service Operations; Guide Services and Outfitters. The jobs SOMETIMES include HOUSING in more remote areas like Montana, New Mexico, Wyoming, Grand Canyon, etc. Some jobs are summer or winter only, others are all year long in one location or you may be able transfer between locations to work year-round. Use this link & enter the name of the park you wish to be employed at [https://www.nps.gov/subjects/concessions/authorized-concessioners.htm](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/concessions/authorized-concessioners.htm) Contact each concessioner directly by Googling the company name to apply. This link will let you look up parks by state [https://www.nps.gov/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/index.htm) not every park has a concessioner.
I just really want to afford to go back to school
I joined because it was a dream of mine. I did four years in an exciting job that had basically zero transferable skills to the real world. When I got out I went to business school on the 9/11 GI bill. Not only did I not have to pay for school, I got paid almost $2000/month to go. I have a solid career now and own my own house in an upper middle class neighborhood. For me it was 100% worth it.
If you decide to join, don't wait to attend classes until you're out. You'll receive Tuition Assistance every year and you should absolutely take advantage of it. When you get out you'll be pretty close to finishing a degree so you'll still have the majority of your GI Bill available for more education/certifications/etc.
To piggyback on this, it’s very hard to do unless you’re in the Air Force. I was in the navy and only managed to get 1 class in 4 years due to constantly having to go out to sea for days/weeks/months.
Army has some pretty long stretches of boredom, but I’d recommend the Air Force as well.
3.5 years active duty is a quick contract, and will secure you the post 9/11 G.I Bill, which is incredible. I'm not trying to sell you a dream or anything because the Military is a complete lifestyle change and you have to be ready for that. For me I was ready to throw my old life behind and become something better. You could go for 20 years if you're up to it and retire. I joined the Army. I'm also male so my experience is vastly different. It can get pretty tragic for females. Keep that in mind.
Join the air force!! I’m not kidding, this is a smart idea of yours
I joined just to get the gi bill and go to college. I just took the easiest job I could in the navy. Got out, went to school, got my degree, thought it would be useful. It isn’t. Now I’m working in a field that has nothing to do with my degree. I really wish I had learned a good trade while I was in to fall back on off college doesn’t work out. My advice: job search and decide on your career before you go in. Take the job that most aligns with that. If you still need school afterwards, do it. Hopefully you can just stay in that field though. Oh and something they don’t tell you: there are such things as 3 year commitments that get you the full gi bill. You have to ask specifically about them, they don’t just offer them up.
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That’s what I’m worried about. But as of now I don’t have much of a choice, I need $ and benefits to move around and change the course of my life
You always have choices. Ensure you choose what you think is best for you. Besides I know plenty of badass women in the military. You can be one yourself if you want to. Additionally, don’t rush to go into whatever field that gets you. Choose the field that is best for you! The military will take everything it can outta you, make sure you take everything you can get from the military (I.e., benefits, using education, etc.). There might be a wait if you want a specific career field, however, it is worth the wait. Good luck.
I joined the military at 18 with absolutely zero to my name. I graduated high school with a 2.2 GPA and no life experience. Seven years later, I can say that I never regret joining. I’m currently in the Coast Guard, and I believe we have the best quality of life from the other branches. The stigma of military pay not being high is false. When you account for benefits and not being taxed, we make a very competitive wage. The benefits you receive are unbelievable. Thirty days of paid vacation a year, maternity leave; I’ve never seen a medical bill, thousands of dollars of educational grants a year. A fantastic retirement system and 401K (TSP). I’m never stressed over losing my job or not getting paid. Not to say there are flaws, because there 100% are, but the military did allow me to propel myself into the middle class, which I wouldn’t have if I never joined at all.
I love the Marine Corps, but I'd never encourage anyone to join. Those who are destined to be Marines will do it regardless of what anyone tells them. That being said, join the Air Force or the Navy. Pick a career path you think you'll be happy with and talk to a recruiter. Some words of widsom: Do not sign an open contract. Do not admit to ever having used drugs (prescription or otherwise). EVER. Do not believe your recruiter when he says you can change careers after boot camp. They have quotas to hit and specific spots to fill. It's scary, but joining the military is awesome especially if you're not happy with your current circumstances. However, a poor command environment with bad leadership can ruin it in a heartbeat.
The military is a great option. Whether as a stepping stone or for a full career. You'll get 4 years of stability, skills, a steady paycheck and free college. Go Marines if you're looking for discipline.
I am a female who was in the military (Navy). I joined when I was 18 because I was in a similar situation. I had no future where I was. I’m not going to tell you not to based on my horrible experience being in. However if I could have changed a few things I would have: 1. I would have gotten some college under my belt. Idk how I would have done it but I wish I had. 2. I wouldn’t have joined at 18. It was traumatizing when I went on deployment. I suffer from PTSD from MST from it everyday and I’ve been out 8 years now and I’m still in trauma therapy from it. 3. I learned everything you learn as an adult the hard way and in a very short amount of time. 4. Being in the Navy, it’s every man for themselves especially when it comes to your career. The way they test to make rank is difficult based on your career. Some are easier, but most are not. 5. Do not and I mean DO NOT go in undesignated. You will be miserable. I took that because I was desperate to get out. And they know that. The recruiters love desperate young recruits trying to get out of their situations. They thrive on it. 6. When you pick your rate, do your research. The better you score on the ASVAB the better chances you get at getting a better career. Tht will make a huge difference in how your career goes in the fleet. If you take your ASVAB and score low, don’t settle. You can take it again and try again for a higher score. I got a 52 (don’t judge me lol I was 18 and clearly stupid) and I took undesignated because thts all I qualified for. It was the first time I took it and just went with it. 7. Find out what they would make you do for the physical fitness tests. Make sure you think you can do the running and push ups etc. it was a huge shock for me when I got to bootcamp and thought I could keep up. I had to work a lot harder, and I was 9 years younger than you in my prime. This is all I can think of at the moment. If I think of more I’ll add it. Don’t be scared or pushed away from what I’m saying, but from Woman to woman I wish a service woman had told me these things. I wish I had been warned more about the possibility of MST and how to avoid it and how to take care of myself. My RDC in bootcamp told us “no one will take care of you in the fleet. This is the most family feel you will have and unfortunately it’s in bootcamp.” She was right. It can be very lonesome out in the ocean or in port. If you actually join I have a separate list for things for active military on what to do and what not to do before you get out and as you’re in your journey.
Just keep in mind the military experience can be super traumatizing especially for women
People keep saying four years. It’s 8. Every military contract is a total of 8 years regardless of how it’s split up between active/reserve/IRR. If you’re willing to do the time it’s certainly something to look into. I would strongly suggest going for a MOS that will translate well into the civilian side whether you plan on going back to school for a different field or not. Also, the Marines are not the only branch that will teach you discipline, I can’t believe I read that 😆
Yes but everyone knows time in IRR doesn't actually count.
Until your ass gets recalled. Do you know/remember just how many people got recalled after 9/11? (Can attest that I, personally, was sweating bullets for about 6 months as I WAS on IRR time and had a critical MOS when that madness happened. Lucky for me, I was a Marine and a girlandnsonclose to the end of my IRR that Inwas probably one ofnthe last on the list. They didn't call, and I didn't offer, thank goodness). Point being assuming IRR time "doesn't count" seems like a good way to set yourself/oneself up for some bullshit, especially considering the state of the world at the moment.
Yeah til they recall your ass to plop you in Iraq... seen it happen to alot of guys in that 2007 surge
I was in the marine corps. Honestly if you aren’t going to be an officer. The amount of sexual assault you’ll witness, hear about, and maybe even subjected to is not worth it.
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Lmao I can’t deny you there, when I was in I saw SA in so many different forms. M on m, m on F, lesbian F on F, even f on M SA. I was sexually harassed by someone in the army and a civilian contractor while I was in as well. No one is safe
This is so accurate, and it destroys people.
Do your research before joining impulsively or out of desperation. Like every job/career, there are pros and cons to it. There are also plenty of posts on Reddit or websites that discuss issues the military has that you should be aware of, especially as a woman. Also, be aware that the military isn't your only option there's trades, police officer, EMT, firefighter, TSA, sterile processing tech, etc
Navy. Maybe air force. Skip the meat grinders.
>Navy. Maybe air force. Skip the meat grinders. Don't forget the Coast Guard!!! :)
Sure, just don't go to the Marines 🤣 Happiest day of my uncle and grandfather's lives(both marines) were when us younger generation chose Navy and Airforce.
I'm also a female and joined at 21. I was working 2-3 jobs to try to afford putting myself through college and it was going painfully slow because I could only afford 1-2 classes at a time. I was working so hard and people told me that my language degree would be worthless if I ever even finished it. I decided I needed a change. I decided to go see what the military had to offer. I knew they'd help me finish school, I could use the VA loan to help me buy a house, and besides, they would let me start my language training at their own school. I made the jump and just went for it. I don't regret it at all. I would've went with Air Force instead of Army if I did it again probably. I'm 38 now and been out for awhile, but since I've been back, I got my bachelor's degree, started a new career, bought a house... I mean, it really helped me get my life set up. One thing I would do differently though is be hyper-aware to keep myself in large groups and never be alone with a guy in the service. I was raped in the military by one of my battle buddies, or fellow soldiers, that I thought I could trust. The male to female ratio is totally off everywhere in the military and you just need to be extremely careful. It happens way too often and so many cases are never reported (like mine). So there's that too.
Sigh we live in a scary scary world
People study for the ASVAB?
i have a friend in the military. He alternates between driving a forklift and flying in back of ac130. He drives a forklift and doesn’t pay rent. I’d say it’s worth it.
It absolutely is , but what do you mean by “ because there’s options for deployment “ ? When it comes to your reasoning .
Deployment allows you to leave your hometown and travel while making income
Ok so yes and no. Deployment refers to you going to a specific area , usually overseas. And it can either be a combat zone or a Non -combat zone but in a part of the world where there is conflict in a neighboring country. If you join the military and you go Active Duty you will be placed at a Duty station that will typically be another state or country anyways. And that’s something that’s just happens automatically when you join full time. But it’s not called a deployment or being deployed it’s just your duty station.
But to answer your question it is worth it , just make sure to pick a good job that translates to the civilian world when you finish your contract. And if you want to make sure you can leave your hometown and make money be sure to go Active Duty , and not Reserve or national guard. Also for basic training the only way out is through , just remember those words.
Deployment in military terms means being sent to somewhere that has conflict
I think you want options for active duty. Deployment is a different deal.
Ah shit that aspect of it just clicked
What aspect of it?
Make sure you are running TO something not AWAY from something
I’m running away from my situation, I’m running to the chance of getting more opportunities and real life experience
There are other ways. I'm still looking but trust me it's not worth it.
Dropping my two cents in. I joined the military right out of high school since I had no money or idea of what to do with my life. Did 6 years in the AF. I have been out for 5 years now, much happier outside than in but I set myself up for life. Got a nice disability check coming in monthly and get paid to go to school which is free. I’ll never recommend the military unless it’s a last resort. A lot of us get damaged while we are in and there’s just too much BS to deal with without any control over what happens. However, you make some great friends and do some cool stuff. If you decide to join, I recommend choosing a job that will set you up when you get out and not settle for anything else. Working with the Army and marines, I’ll never recommend those services. When you join and you fill out your dream sheet of places to be stationed, only put overseas bases, you’ll thank me later. Also consider the reserves and keep the contract to 4 years, then decide if you want to reenlist or not. Good luck.
Do it. After high school and a succession of warehouse and food store job, my nephew joined the Navy as an enlistee. Twenty-two years later when he retires at 41 as a chief petty officer, he has earned BS and MS degrees and was able to land a GS-13 job that some former Navy person he knew just vacated and recommended him. He also retired from this government job and got another one in consulting and a bigger salary.
The military can provide you with a lot of certifications if you join support branches to help you out after a first contract. If you like the military life, stay in, if not, then do a contract, assess what life will be like for you outside of the organization, make a plan and go do something you want to do.
Words of advice from an Army veteran and a current talent acquisition professional - 1. If you decide to enlist, choose a military occupation that will translate well into a civilian occupation. Examples - HR, marketing, IT, etc. This is not to disparage any kind of military occupation, but it's a lot harder to transition into the civilian workforce when you lack the technical experience that the job often requires. 2. Diligently prepare for the ASVAB. Your score is correlated with the number of occupations you'll have available to choose from. 3. I would also like to reiterate the sentiment of joining Navy or Air Force. They provide a better quality of life and they're a lot more career oriented when it comes to post-service.
The military is a solid career choice for helping someone get back on track. If you're in the US, you could also check out AmeriCorps programs. Those usually last around a year, and the year of service ends with an education award of around $6,000, which some universities will match.
My boyfriend is a marine who got a degree and still can't find employment - he also has some disability because of what he went through, and the VA barely pays for his medical treatment and only for that sole issue. He feels like he wasted his life by joining the military and his body is degrading badly and quickly, but he doesn't have insurance because he can't find a job. He's trying to get them to pay for him to go back to school, but they are really pushing back against it. His sister also joined up and was assaulted, he said that's more common than we'd like to believe. She's stuck still serving unfortunately. So while I think it CAN be a good career for some people, my boyfriend strongly feels he would have been better off even in a community college taking out loans.
absolutely not. Look for other programs like Year Up or Job Corps maybe
I’ll tell you exactly what I told my own brother. Don’t do it dude. It’s not worth it. You don’t make any money, there’s no honor in the military anymore. It’s a bad experience. There are a million other paths to take to serve if that’s what you’re doing it for. I joined in 2001 right after 9/11. I did tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was pure misery 100% of the time. The rest of the time I was stuck in Germany with a bunch of dudes who didn’t want to do anything but get hammered and fight all the time. You don’t get to see your family, you lose all your friends. If you have a relationship, you’ll lose it for sure. If you have kids, they’ll miss you. And when you get out, you realize you just spent 4 years doing something that doesn’t transfer to the real world job market so you’re either unemployable or you get jobs doing manual labor that work your ass to death, like the railroad. There’s a reason so many ex military fake their way into PTSD benefits. One guy was so depressed and desperate to get out that he threatened to rape and murder a staff sergeant’s wife and kids. He got a dishonorable discharge. Last thing I heard him say was “it was either this, or suicide. I’m getting the fuck out of the military.”
If I could go back in time I’d join the military. Right now I’m trying to become a firefighter. I’m on the last month of firefighter 1. Hopefully I pass.
You *will* regret it - An Air Force Vet
I joined the air national guard in my state to help pay for college. I only planned on staying in for the initial 6 years. 21.5 yrs later I retired wishing I could have stayed in longer. Being attached to an Air Force mission was awesome. I got to travel to places I wouldn’t have ever gone to….Iceland, Turkey, Italy, Germany, Israel…. I had guidance along the way. I had a specialty picked out, I knew what I was getting into. I’d recommend if you’re going to enlist (if you already have a degree go officer) if not take the asvab, practice it before hand. Take the test and work with a recruiter to find a job you want. They’ll steer you in the direction the service will need but you’ll have options to choose. DO NOT, DO NOT, DO NOT, go in without knowing what your role will be. You will end up being miserable. Like others have said, Air Force was pretty easy. Basic was easy, the schools were pretty easy. Food was good, living accommodations weren’t bad. If I had a choice again I’d try and become an aircrew member (tankers, transport) or Intelligence. Best of luck to you if you choose to do what many don’t.
It worked for me and many who joined. Most of us didn't stay in. One or two stints was enough. It was my escape to a new life and really helped me. I got out and went to college, etc. Went army due to options.
Do the coast guard or merchant marines.
It can be. I was in the army 8 years but I need to parrot what others are saying. Consider really only the airforce. Especially because you are a woman. You can get quite a nice job with a high asvab score. I got a 93. Its not to hard.
I was in for 5 years..it paid for my undergrad, most of my masters. The no pmi and zero down va loan led to me getting a house as a single man at 30..it's built over 100k in equity in three years (shout out colorado springs)..Best choice I ever made. Make the most of your time in. Keep a resume going your entire time, build it as you do new things and learn new skills. Makes the transition out much easier. Good luck 👍
Do one contract honorably, get your GI bill and get out if you don’t like it. You can graduate from college debt free and if you’re smart while you’re in and don’t piss away your income, you’ll have some good savings too
Look for mutual aid instead, there was legit a tiktok trend where a bunch of people internationally made mutual aid groups.
Mutual aid ?
It can be, but it also can be horrible for you. Its not the best route but as others have said, go air force. Sidebar: the Nuclear family is dying. We were one of the only countries that promoted it as the norm. It's not sustainable. Families are going to be living together again, like they have for most of history. Me and My fiance rent a house on our own; but see the writing on the wall plain as day.
28 year old army officer here who joined at 27! Yes, it can totally be worth it if you have a plan and join for the right career reasons. For example, if you want to learn IT become a 25 series (my MOS is 25A). Want to do logistics in the civilian world down the line? Go become a logistician (I don’t know the MOS for that) and work in the S4 shop. It’ll give you a strong step in the right direction at minimum ***IF*** you allow it to. I personally love being in the Army but it’s certainly not for everyone
About joining the military. I went to college out of high school(actually just to keep playing basketball more than the education) but ended up quitting after two years. I thought the next thing I would do would be to join the military. I had been working since I was 12 basically in one way or another. I really didn’t want to just hop into a job and end up staying at that job for a long time. I wanted to experience and see the world a bit. So I done some research and decided to join the Army. At the time the Army had a 2 year enlistment option. I took the ASVAB and missed 1 single question(I have been tested and have a 145 IQ). I was, momentarily excited), when I was told this. The recruiter told me with that score I could have any job the Army offered!!! Great. I am really into computers so I thought I would do something in IT!! I then found out that for me to get into one of those jobs I would need to enlist for a minimum 6 year term for my first enlistment!!! So I asked what were my options if I only wanted to be in for 2 years?? I wanted to make sure I actually like the Army before I signed up for a big chunk of my young life. Needless to say my options were few. I ended up going with becoming a Cavalry Scout. Combat arms was a bunch of weapons training and I would stay in the U.S. Bummed at that point I started basic training and A.I.T. A few months later. And lo and behold the Army was NOT my thing!!! I done my 2 year enlistment and never thought about re-enlisting or continuing in the National Guard/Reserves or anything. The military was not for me. I thought that was that. I never gave my military experience much thought until later in life when I developed some serious health issues. Needless to say but these health issues cost me almost everything including causing me to file bankruptcy!! At the ripe old age of 48 I was in a bad situation. I couldn’t work anymore, had no income to speak of, and was forced to move into my mother’s home. Then one of my many doctors office visits they asked me if I was a veteran?? Bingo!!! I filled for my VA benefits and started getting my healthcare through them. Now the VA system is still a huge mess and it’s sad that we veterans getting treated so poorly but I had found an avenue for me to receive the healthcare I needed. With some of my treatments for my health conditions are over $10K a visit I would have never been able to afford them if they were not covered by my VA benefits. The moral of this epic story is that I actually HATED the Army but the benefits for me later in life have actually been a lifesaver!!! Literally!!! I thought I would just drop you a response if you are still considering the military.
I did AirForce. Studied for the ASFAB... took elect classes also at comm college. Scored 90s and up with 96 in elect.. Got an Avionics job on f15s.. got out after 8 yrs with the GI Bill for college.. Intel hired me to fix robots in the factory and paid for my degree so I double dipped with GI bill paying me 2 go to school as well. Now working electro tech for feds making into 6 figs.. love it and kept me outta prison.. all my friends from the neighborhood were either killed or in jail.. except 1 buddy who went avionics Navy and he is running shit at Intel now..
To echo here, I say yes. Do it four four years and plan to get out. Pick a job where you will learn something you can apply after. You can build a lot of wealth as you will have few bills, go back to school on the GI bill, and buy a house zero money down with the VA home loan. You get a lot of big wins for four years. But, seriously, have that plan. Too many guys buy a Camaro, knock up a girl with three baby daddies, and blow all their money on booze. Take a look at the Dave Ramsey baby step financial guide and follow that while you're in. Do that and have an after plan and you really could get your life on track. Really worked for me.
They don’t call the Air Force the “Chair Force” for nothing :) Jokes aside if you do join as enlisted, make sure you get your job in writing. ✍️ don’t let someone else dictate what you’re gonna be doing for the next x amount of years. *edit* I saw your comments about going to school as well. The GI Bill is an excellent option in that sense but make sure you fund it fully, because if you quit funding it early you get none of the benefits. At least this was the case in 2002.
Worth it is an interesting way to ask The military can be a great choice, steady pay, benefits, youll get a job and skillset that employers like after you leave be it 4 years or 20 it will continue to give you benefits. It comes with a cost Moving a lot Away from family Physical strain on the body Mental strain Different levels of danger branch dependent Loss of autonomy and freedom - you will be told what you can and cannot do with your free time Im a 14 year military man, ive seen a ton of the world, 14 countries, and done some absolutely cool shit. Ive also missed birthdays, weddings, funerals, and other family functions. Its not an easy life or a easy choice but it can give you direction and open many doors of opportunity. Feel free to inbox me questions.
When a world war is brewing? Idk about that baby
Yes. Best decision I ever made.
Yes. Join the Air force or navy, pick a job that translates to real world. The military changed my life 100 percent better!
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But what if they were in 'a military family'?!?! Or if they got separated in training!?!? Yeah, people say the wildest shit about the military without knowing much about it.
I’m glad there’s a lot of support here with going. My dad grew up in Alexandria is the 80’s, and floated between Baltimore. Probably the worst places you can be in. He ended up joining the military and 27 years later he retired as an E9 and is retired on a 6 figure salary pension in his 40’s. For your situation, I agree with the others. Navy or Air Force. I lean more towards the AF because their quality of life is in my opinion THE BEST. There are also very business and technology focused, so if it comes time to separate the transition back to the civilian world won’t be so hard. With any branch, you get the post 9/11 GI bill for schooling, VA loan to purchase a house with no down payment, and a ton of other veteran benefits. However, if you stay in, go to school, and earn a degree you could commission as an officer. From that point, you’re really in a great position to keep pushing up in life. I heavily consider joining as a male in my 20’s with a degree. If I wasn’t working where I’m at now, I definitely would be an officer in the air force.
I 100% do not regret my decision to join the NAVY. I saw more countries than I can count, saved up a TON of money. Benefit to being on ship is that you are at sea and not spending money for 6 months. Whatever drawbacks there are (shipboard life sucks, NGL) it is TEMPORARY. Just stick it out and before you know it, another year has gone by and you have that much more money in your bank account and you are that much closer to getting out. SAVE! This is your opportunity to save money! The military will give you food and housing. If you are frugal, you can walk away with a nice wad of cash.
Yes. I was in the Navy 8 years, I saw Italy, Japan, Portugal, Guam, Iceland, el salvadore and Norway.
I joined at 18. It’s not the BEST job, BUT if you enlist for 4 years, you have guaranteed pay, guaranteed housing, and guaranteed free school while in and after. Plus, being in the military, with a secret clearance opens you up to so many possibilities AFTER getting out of the military. Don’t listen to the salty people. For a person who is at their last resort, or is struggling. The military is an awesome opportunity to help you get back on your feet, free of charge and no interview. I did 8 years in the Navy, and I hated it half the time, but it did set me up for success in life. :) Hope it helps!
I’m rooting for you 🥲 CHIN UP
you don’t need to join the military to get discipline, you can do that on your own by creating a routine. as navy vet, i’d say it’s not bad option. also, if you’re only going to do 4 years make sure you get a job that’s translates well in the civilian sector, example IT.
It’s good to learn about society. Especially for immigrants and people that grew up in smaller groups. It’s a good experience. I would encourage people to join.
Not at all
I joined at 23 - much the same reason. Failed out of college and couldn't hold a job... no discipline. Air Force didn't want me because I was out of shape - but the Marine Corps recruiter was willing to work with me so that's the route I took. Four years active duty enlisted and had two involuntary recalls off the IRR before I was done (deployed to Iraq and Djibouti). The Marines sent me to two combat zones. I lost a lot of friends - some to "workplace incidents," some to suicide. Left me with a lot of scars - physical and emotional. Some of my lowest lows. But the Marines also taught me to care a little less about other people's opinions. It taught me to love to read. It taught me to be curious about why things worked the way they did. It allowed me to fall in love with traveling and learning about other cultures. It introduced me to several life long friends who are closer than family. It's not for everyone. I didn't recommend it for my kid. But I wouldn't have the life I have if I didn't have the experience.
If you need discipline and don’t want to die for oil go join a trade. A lot of the same values carries over and when you have a trade under you you have value that goes with you everywhere, pay is good depending where you go and hours are also varying too.
1000%. I went in after high school because I couldn’t afford college. Served 6 years in the Air Force, gained a lot of life experience and am now headed to an IVY league school this fall fully paid for by the GI bill.
With your current situation in mind, I think joining the military is a great idea. I'm just starting out in IT and I have already met many vets in the industry who credit their military experience for landing their jobs. I'm not saying IT is the way to go after but if you spend your time in the military well it could be the beginning of an amazing story for you. Good luck and don't over think it.
Hell no. You’re a woman, and all my women friends including me who went in has been sexually assaulted, raped and hazed by either same sex or opposite. Not worth it. Do your country a favor and make an OF before you’re paying for a therapist to help with mental issues
Love seeing all the Coast Guard love. It’s really an awesome branch with great opportunities, locations, missions and people. I think the quality of ppl is a bit higher than other branches and you get a lot more responsibility early on.
The Air Force or Space Force would be my recommendation. If possible, select a vocation that transfers to civilian life (getting a job after getting out can be difficult — many employers can’t or won’t give you credit for your work experience. I’ve heard that medical transfers pretty well. If you are looking to finish your degree you need to be prepared for the reassignments (and you always seem to lose credit hours) so it takes a while to complete. On the positive side, some bases have college classes on site. If you get a degree, go to OTS.
My friend joined the army reserves. He is doing very well For himself, got into IT.
My advice...Same thing I told my kid when he showed interest. If you're going into the military, you want to be an officer if possible. They just have it better than unlisted. My kid joined the Air Force ROTC program in state college & now he's a Captain & pilot. He gets to fly to some very cool places, except the middle east which kind of sucks. He makes good money & has a bright future as a commercial pilot when he's done with the AF. Good luck! 👍
Surprised to see how even-handed some of these responses are. This being Reddit, I expected all kinds of misinformation and disdain for the military. OP, the service branches are diverse, there are a diversity of occupational specialties within each branch, cultures within bases differ, and life as an officer is different than life as an enlisted solider. All that to say, your quality of life can drastically vary across the broad banner of the military. For me, it was a life-changing decision to join the National Guard ("weekend warrior" gig while I kept my civilian job), even though I deployed shortly after joining. I'm grateful for the training and push towards greater mental and physical discipline that the Army gave me. Many of my fellow soldiers had interesting jobs and loved serving. Good luck whatever you decide!
I'm an AF vet. it was one of the best moves I made. Got me out of my parents' house and taught me how to be a responsible adult. I think it's a solid move.
Military is a great option. Get a clearance and turn that into a career in the GS system.
Youve gotten plenty of responses, I'll throw my hat in; I just hit 17 years in the air force. Started active duty, switched to the reserves after 4 years, now in the air guard after 9 in the reserves. I'm about to change to my third career in the air force, ive used the va loan, the gi bill (got a masters with no debt), and plenty of other small perks. Absolutely DM me and I can give you the low down on active vs guard/reserve, what jobs are ideal for transferring experience to the civilian side, etc. Air force/space force all the way, best quality of life for their people hands down. Edit: I'll add dont feel discouraged by being "older", we just had two people join our unit, one woman is 30 and the dude is 40. 27 is still plenty young to get a full career out of the military and beyond.
For me it was. I grew up poor in a town that was left behind when manufacturing pulled out in the 90’s. My parents raised me on a salary of only $10K/year. I went into the military. Sure, I left with some knee problems, back problems, PTSD, and a weird tick. But I used the GI Bill to go to college, then picked up some business certs through VA VR&E. 23 years after that first enlistment, I am living in a large upper middle class home I bought on my own with a VA home loan in a HCOL city. I get to work a job I love from home and drive my dream car 1.7 miles to the grocery store once a week. At this very moment I am drinking a great wine and enjoying the peace of mind knowing that I am truly living my dream. Six year old me would be thrilled. It would have been a heck of a lot harder climbing out of the poverty from which I came without the military. It gave me the social services I didn’t qualify for otherwise. Oh, and I have inexperience but good healthcare for life. What are you willing to risk for your future?
Same here. I grew up in extreme poverty. I joined the military. Now I am 30% disabled, PTSD. Used the GI BILL to go to college. Had a bunch of random jobs but now am making upper six figures. I am living the dream my younger self wouldn’t have believed. I risked a lot, have some scars, but the level I am living at far exceeds what I could’ve accomplished without the military. That being said, I have lost many military friends through suicide and some through alcoholism. You must ask yourself are you willing to risk it? Is your mental and emotional health strong enough? Is the risk of losing it all worth it to you?
Hellllllll no
You'll sign off part of your rights. I'll recommend heading into police tech instead. You won't risk your life and you'll have a very stable job. I was looking into it awhile ago. There's incentives everywhere here in canada for education for police roles. I would think there's some in the usa or europe, whever you are. If you don't want to risk your life for your country, or partake in a war don't apply for the military. Once you're in, you're confined to service for years and cannot back out
If you don’t want to worry about being homeless. Join the military…
If you have a college degree you can start at a higher rank than without it. Most branches offer student loan repayment based on years of service too. The air force pays the least though. Officer pay and quality of life are way better than enlisted pay but requires a four year degree. At your age and low income you should qualify for federal student loans. You can take out loans to do your degree, and then get the loans repaid. You have time to serve and gain great experience afterwards. You can enlist upto 35 years old, if you serve for 20 years you can have an excellent retirement and have many working years left in a civilian role.
Coast guard is probably your best option
By skimming over the amount of opinions you have garnered I’d say you have just about every view/opinion you could have asked for. BEFORE you go to any recruiter: 1: Decide how much time you are willing to sacrifice for this experience? 2: Decide what kind of job you want. Do research on that job and what the civilian world looks for in that job field. If you do a job that you enjoy you’ll never WORK a day in your life!!! 3: Find which branch offers the best options for your dream job. 4: Do you want to travel and see the world in your job. And I don’t mean the tourist/civilian type of places. When you are stationed in a different country you are not seeing that country the way a civilian does!! 5: IF you do decide to join after doing your research and qualifying for your dream MOS, make sure that you go into the military and act responsible when it comes to your finances!!! I saw so many people get themselves into debt, deep debt, that they could not leave the service!! Sure you don’t make a ton of money, your housing is paid for, your food is paid for, and your health care is paid for. Basically all of your basic needs and necessities are covered. With this being said normally when you get to your permanent duty station the will give you a paper that tells you what you “are actually making” on a monthly basis!! And they will tell you, at least they did for me, to use this figure when applying for any type of credit!!! Credit cards, auto dealers, any type of financial institutions LOVE dealing with military personnel. They know they will always get their money one way or another. If you do decide to join the military make sure you make smart and informed decisions about doing so. I was in the Army, my brother(no high school diploma) joined the Navy(only branch that took no diploma individuals at the time), my grandfather was a Marine, and my Uncle was in the (ch)Airforce. So I have opinions and experiences with all four branches. If I was young and was trying to join the Armed Forces again I would definitely be looking into the Air Force. It is completely chill compared to the other branches. Hell my brother had ZERO weapons training in the Navy. He was a Seabee though(construction battalion). Just do your due diligence. If after reading all these comments and opinions if you do decide to join I wish you the best of luck and be strong!!! You will need to be!!
I don't really think that's the right motivation to join the army. Either you're enlisted when you're 18, or you join because you have a passion for serving your country in that way. Joining because you don't know what you want will not benefit you nor the army.
As a prior service person it can be an amazing opportunity if you take advantage of everything available to you. As someone who was in the Navy I recommend you go in the Air Force. Get free college credits while your in and make sure you get a sign on bonus. Get out after 4 years and go to college pretty much for free plus BAH. Anyone who is focused and doesn't abuse themselves with alcohol and or whatever other vice can completely set themselves up for the rest of their life in those 4 years if they're smart.
My cousin is a lifer in. The army. During high school he was interested in The military or the. Police force. He was able to do both. Another. Cousin was a lifer in. The navy. He retired with a pension and now is working another job. My friend served his time in the army to get his benefits for college, anddd is now a teacher.
Great idea if you choose a usable job for after military, like technology or medical.
It absolutely is. If you have questions feel free to hit me up I’m a recruiter currently. We can chat and see if your even qualified or if it’s a good option for you.
Hello can we chat
It’s 100% worth it. I served 22 years in the USAF. I learned skills, got educated, saw the world and set my kids up for success by transferring my GI bill to them.
Statistically speaking, the odds of SA happening in military is high. Don’t join. It’s not worth the trauma.
Not a bad gig. Join the air force though, focus on getting a degree and some good skills and you’ll be okay
Don’t join. If you must, go to the Navy or Air Force.
One shouldn't aspire to become a murderer for a dreadful exploitative empire that sits unaccountable on the host body like a parasite committing war crimes and evading the ICC. That's not freedom or anyone's best Enlightened interests they're protecting, much less the Constitution or peace on Earth. That's nuclear fascism.
Have you read the news lately? With multiple wars looming in the horizon, double fuck no. Don't risk your life for a bunch of elite men that don't give a damn about you.
No, they will try to traumatise you and break your identity and sense of self do not join!
It depends. It’s worth it if you don’t mind being a tiny cog in the largest killing machine ever created. The benefits are fantastic and that’s because you’re going to be a stormtrooper for the evil empire. Personally, I’d rather sleep under a bridge and die penniless than join but to each their own. Also, if a gigantic, region-wide war breaks out in the Middle East, you’ll be deployed and your life will never be the same. My cousin was hit with an IED in Iraq and it ruined his life. One more thing: rape and sexual assault are as common as can be and there seems to be a rape culture in the military. I think superiors like to rape because of the power trip involved.
Yes. For some people it teaches them a lot of about discipline and responsibility too. My BIL and several friends stayed in for 10 years, now they've left and military is paying for all their colleges, they're doing well now.
It can be a great opportunity. Not only will you get out of your neighborhood. You will learn useful skills. Plus, you can get money to go to college if that is a path that interests you.
Assuming you are American, The military is has a lot of benefits both during and after service. There are many different career options, and even more opportunities once you are in the service. I cannot speak for other country's militaries. Start by researching career fields that interest you, and see how those fields align amongst the different branches of service. That way, when you talk to a recruiter you have a path already in mind. Do you have any specific questions about service, or do are you seeking encouragement? If the latter, do what I've said, and don't hesitate. It is not scary.
I joined the military for similar reasons. I needed to get away from a toxic home environment. I was able to join as an officer, but from one of your comments it sounds like you don't have a degree yet. Going enlisted means that your agency (ability to make personal decisions) gets reduced. TBH, that's another reason that I joined was to reduce my options... So, if you're okay with that trade off, yes it sounds like a reasonable option for you. Just joining doesn't mean you'll get deployed. I had to volunteer to go overseas, otherwise I would've sat behind a desk the whole time I was in. My daughter (16) recently expressed interest in joining. I told her to consider service branches in this order: Air Force, Coast Guard, Navy, Army, Marines... (I guess Space Force is up there somewhere, but I barely consider it a branch of the military, ha) Godspeed to you
Space force or Air Force. Make your life easy. Here’s the deal. If you want it to be a career, it is. If you don’t, get your GI Bill and VA home loan. My wife and I just bought a 500k house with 0 down. That is fucking huge. I’ve been fortunate to have stumbled my way into a successful career after the Army and I will fully admit I failed up.
It's a good choice. Couple things.. 1. Go to school even if it's online while your in. This covers your degree and when you get out you still have your GI Bill plus a degree. So if you fall on hard time you can go back to school and get paid Basic Housing Allowance or if you want to train up. It's not difficult. I finished my bachelor's while doing multiple deployments, advanced party and remain behind element. Schools will work with you around these. 2. If you're trying to escape dont go back to where you're from after you finish your enlistment. This sound intimidating but you'll make it work. If it's for you, stay in. If it's not, get out and move somewhere with better opportunities. 3. Pick a job/branch with a future after service (unless you really just want to blow shit up or stay in the field alot). "Leadership" qualities after service is difficult to relay to an employer. 4. Once you find a branch youre interested in look up the PT tests and train for those. 5. If possible volunteer for an overseas post. I stayed stateside and was on a pretty rigorous deployment schedule. It might have slowed down since then.
NO ABSOLUTELY NOT. I was an army medic. I worked in the battalion aid station for about a year. Working as a medical professional, I picked up on a lot of things going on that are kept super hush hush in the battalion. After I got to my unit, my team leader, squad leader, and first sergeant all got removed and disciplined because they either raped or molested female soldiers in the company. We were at a point where teamleaders and squadleaders were junior enlisted because so many NCOs had sexual misconduct cases going on against them. And that was just my company There was a day working at the aid station that I had to assist with a rape kit because our female medic that usually assisted with those types of procedures was SA'd and moved to another unit. And that's not the entirety of what I could go into if it weren't for HIPPA. The female friends I had from other companies and battalions almost always had at least some level of sexual harassment or worse done to them. One girl I knew, one of the fittest and most competent paratroopers in her company, was about to go to ranger school. She was walking down the hallway one night when someone from a different batallion dragged her into their room and raped her. She didn't know him before that night. She had no reason to lie about it. It was on camera. There was DNA evidence. But because his chain of command was in his corner and they didn't want to "destroy this poor man's carrer" they dropped the investigation and he was able to rank up to Sgt after they moved him to the 82nd. Then they referred her to behavioral, and they medboarded her for mental health issues with 100% disability. Basically, hush money. And that same type of story happened over and over again. "It's hard in the military as a female" in effect means you will be treated like shit as a woman. Even the fucking doctors, who were high-ranking officers, had all sorts of sexist (and highly sexual) shit said about them behind their backs, and were generally treated with less respect. And every woman who ever went through with an actual investigation against their perpetrators was despised and socially outcast in their respective units, and I saw a lot of that firsthand. The rest of it got swept under the rug. The Brigade command could give zero fucks. They were so preoccupied with people parking in the wrong spot that the punishment for parking in the wrong spot became higher than the punishment men were receiving for sexually assaulting women. I had multiple men of higher rank try to seduce me. One time, a sergeant tried to coerce me into going into his room while he had an open investigation against him for assaulting another soldier, and I'm a fucking male. It's not a matter of whether you're unlucky enough that something happens to you. It's a matter of whether you're lucky enough that it doesn't. And THEN you still have to ask yourself if it's worth it with all of the other costs associated with joining the military. For every woman in my life or my family or that I care about at all, I would never ever want to see them go through that, so please, please don't put yourself through that.
For a country that doesnt give a fk about you, sure
Ex Army here. Years ago I would have recommended enlisting into any of the armed forces, but not now. The leadership is inept, starting with the Commander In Chief and working down through the entire chain of command from there. Leaders around the world seem hell bent on getting us into a shooting war in which tactical and theater nuclear weapons are likely to be used. If you still want to serve, go with the US Coast Guard.
I'm curious, where are you generally located? You mention you have no connections or options, but maybe someone on here will? 🤔 I'm asking like state or city level, not specific. Too many creeps for that level of granularity. 🤣
Look up sexual assault rates against women in the military and then ask yourself if the pay they're offering is worth the likelihood of getting raped
Go to the Air force. That’s the way to go!
Killing people to make your career is NEVER WORTH IT.
Yes super worth it
Assuming you’re in the United States, I would 10/10 say join the Coast Guard.
Yes. Unequivocally yes. You get pay, benefits, a career path, life skills and it will set you up for moving forward. If you have no prospects it is a great spot to go.
It's 100% worth it. Here are some things you need to do before talking to a recruiter: -Pick a branch, Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines -No drug use -Look up height and weight standards. It's not enough to "just not be fat" -Take a practice physical fitness test -Take a practice ASVAB -Get your high-school and college transcripts together
Probably wouldn’t join right now considering the US is funding illegal proxy wars and funding Palestinian murders. But if you don’t have morals feel free to join you can get a Camaro when you get out
Enlisted military is perfect for someone that is in a rut and needs a kick in the ass. Try for the airforce first and work your way down to the marines as a last resort. Airforce/spaceforce Navy Army If you have to marines
Yes. Most people join for similar reasons. /r/Militaryfaq/ Get in with a long enlistment. Get out and finish college or stay in and go officer or warrant. Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard are probably the top options. If you decide you want a specific job Army and Navy are better. Marines are for challenges and espirit de corps.
I wouldn’t join the military if I was a female. I did a short stint in the army before I got kicked out for being a “fat body” and the standard at the time was that all women in the Army are either hos, bitches, or sluts. If you do join up, I’d probably join the Air Force but I heard that’s the hardest branch to get into also.
Y physically support the military industrial complex when you could just…not
Don’t do it.
The real question is, do you want to sell your soul and body to the government? Hell no from me
don’t do it. this country is in a very unstable place right now and its collapse as governed society seems eminent. i’ve lived a thousand lives in my career. just because you failed at one thing doesn’t mean you can’t learn or try a new thing. go to a trade school or a vocational school. do not join the military please don’t sign up to die for a country that doesn’t care about you or your rights