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Choosing between college and going into the military after high school is a very difficult and complex decision with each having their own benefits. Both decisions include different challenges, lifestyles, career paths, and financial situations. Looking into both military benefits and the amount of knowledge that college holds can help one further understand how each option shapes your future.
College provides a wide range of academic and career opportunities. According to Pew Research, “college graduates earn about $500,000 more over their lifetime than those with only a high school diploma.” This shows how the importance of getting a college degree can affect your long term financial future. Obtaining a college degree opens up doors to different career paths, mainly those that require specific qualifications only achievable through university education. Surrounding yourself within a college environment can help develop critical thinking skills, specific knowledge, and the ability to form connections that can be important to help further your career.
In comparison to college, the military offers immediate advantages. The Department of Defense says that members in the military receive “competitive salaries, comprehensive healthcare, housing allowances and substantial retirement benefits.” The GI Bill also provides service members with access to covered college tuition, making it possible for some to go to college or even trade school after serving. The complex and structured environment of the military develops leadership skills and other specific skills such as being able to repair vehicles and heavy machinery or being able to treat wounded patients, which helps with finding civilian careers.
One concern with going the college route is that financial stability for college students is in a state of decline. Pew Research says, “student debt has become a major concern, with many graduates facing significant loan repayments.” Even though there are financial challenges facing college students in the moment, college education eventually leads to being better financially stable in the future. The connections college students gain also benefit students by providing chances to explore new job and internship opportunities.
In the military, being financially stable happens almost immediately. Service members benefit from being provided with housing, healthcare, and a stable income. Some of these benefits can also release the financial burden that most civilians deal with. As the Department of Defense states, “military compensation packages are designed to ensure financial stability and offer a range of benefits that support service members and their families.” Being financially stable does come with cons, however, as members are relocated frequently and must follow strict regulations.
While both the military and college come with their own perks and disadvantages, enlisting in the military can give you financial stability instantly and teaches precious skills that can be transferred into normal jobs after service. Students run the high risk of college tuition debt and gain financial stability much more slowly than those choosing to join the military. This is because of the healthcare and housing provided by the United States government along with the covered college tuition provided through the GI Bill. Many jobs in our current society don’t require degrees now, which opens up the job market for people who simply don’t want to or can’t attend college. As a senior myself, I struggled for several years wondering if I was even intelligent enough to enroll in and graduate college. That led me to research the benefits of joining the military. I have always worked better with my hands rather than sitting down for several hours listening to a lecture, so I realized that enlisting in the military would be the best option for my future. This is why I believe that the military is better than college, because it’s very versatile in aspects of life and education.
King Rivera is a senior at Washington High school. Originally from the Philippines, King moved to San Mateo at a young age, and has been living in Fremont CA since 2024. This is King’s first year on the paper. He’s interested in writing about sports and nature. His favorite ways to pass the time are reading, playing games, hanging out with friends and exploring nature. In the future he plans on joining the Air Force with the goal of flying fighter jets.