The current economic climate has led many students and recent graduates to get creative and explore new job and career options. One question you might be asking yourself is, “Should I join the military?” Memorial Day weekend is upon us, a time set aside to honor the sacrifice and courage of the many service members who have gone before us. And, it seemed fitting to me to discuss some of the factors students should consider if they find themselves wondering about a career in the military.
It’s no secret, the military does well in economic crisis. In 2009, following the financial crisis of 2007-08, military recruiters hit their targets for the first time in years. You may be wondering why I, a civilian in education and coaching, am writing about the question, “Should I join the military?” I’m a military spouse of 12-year, active-duty servicemember and have been by my partner’s side for the entire process, including recruitment. We weighed the pros and cons heavily and, after much deliberation, he joined in 2008, right in the thick of the economic crisis. While my husband didn’t join because of the economic state, he was one of the few students who had a full-time job relevant to his college major at graduation. Times were tough and many of our peers were not as fortunate as us.
If you or your student have been thinking about the military but feel as though you are lacking the perspective to make an informed decision, here is some information to help and some steps you can take to assess the option at a deeper level.
Should I join the military?
Positive Aspects of a Military Career
1. Highly Marketable Experience & Transferrable Skills
Having military service on your resume is a sure way to stand out in a crowded market. When employers see past service, they immediately associate it with highly sought-after transferrable skills. Discipline, teamwork, leadership, and work ethic are among the most desired traits that employers have difficulty finding in candidates. The military environment instills these skills in servicemembers and these traits become standard operating procedures for servicemen and women.
2. Professional Skill Development & Training
There are many, many career options in the military that translate exceptionally well to the civilian market, for example, a Diesel Mechanic in the Army or an Air Traffic Controller in the Air Force. The military provides all of this training to service members free of charge and the invaluable opportunity to gain experience day in and day out.
Are you interested in less technical career paths? How about administrative work or management experience? The military has that covered as well! For example, you could become a Paralegal Specialist in the military and then build on that experience after your service by going to law school!
3. Continuing Education
It’s no secret, the military offers great benefits to servicemembers for obtaining a college degree or continuing their education. My husband has now earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree largely funded by the military. In addition, he is able to pass his GI Bill (four years of education plus a housing stipend) along to our daughter. That is the best employee education program I’ve ever heard of!
4. Cultural Diversity
As I mentioned above, I’m the partner of a service member. Both of us grew up in small communities in the Midwest. His military career has exposed us to different cultures all over the country and, now, the world. We have friends from across America and the world, have lived in three states, and one foreign country. Because of his service, we have traveled to over 20 countries and not only appreciate but celebrate the unique contributions all cultures bring to our world. A career in the military means you will be immersed in diversity. You will have the opportunity to learn from so many different people and cultures.
5. Job Security
In uncertain times, the military remains constant. No one is furloughed right now, and the income is steady and dependable. In my husband’s 12 years of service, we have seen government shutdowns, sequestrations, and economic recessions. Yet, he has always had a paycheck. Military jobs offer security and longevity, if you want it.
Drawbacks of a Military Career
1. Loss of Control
The biggest drawback to a career in the military is the loss of control over your life. As my daughter’s children’s book says, “You get what you get and you don’t throw a fit.” Sure, you can submit your preferences; however, what it comes down to is the needs of the military. Fortunately, we have had really good experiences. The few times we didn’t get what we thought we wanted, the outcome was better than we could have even imagined. Life is funny that way, isn’t it?
2. Time Away from Home
If you are asking yourself, “Should I join the military?” you should probably ask yourself, “Am I ok with being away from home often and for extended periods of time?” Military service members rarely live close to their extended family and, as you get older and start your own family, you’ll spend time away from them, too. Ask any service member the downfalls of a military career and this is sure to be on the list. Time away from home is hard.
3. Potential Exposure to Tough Situations
Depending on your job within the military, you could be exposed to some really tough situations. If you are considering a career in the military, can you handle some of the possible situations and scenarios you might find yourself in during your commitment? For my husband, the answer was, “yes.” For me, it would be really hard and I’m not sure I’m cut out for the emotional and physical tolls it could have on my mind and body. I believe the best way to make sure you are ready for what could potentially lie ahead is to talk to someone who is in a role similar to the one you are considering in the military.
Steps to Clarity
If you are asking yourself, “Should I join the military?” I highly recommend conducting some informational interviews with present and past service members. Get my free information interview guide below!
Use your network of family and friends to identify people who have served. Form a list of questions. Talk through some of the pros and cons I mentioned above and give different opinions. Don’t rely solely on the information you receive from marketing material and recruiters. While these professionals often have years of military experience, it is important to hear multiple perspectives. Evaluating the information you have gathered will allow you to make an informed decision that is best for you and your future!
Career Planning for Students and Young Professionals
I am passionate about empowering students and young professionals to make career decisions with confidence. By engaging in career planning and the career coaching process, one identifies factors that bring fulfillment and, from there, we assess and analyze career options of interest. These same skills will be utilized throughout one’s career when faced with important decisions. Book a free consultation today to discuss your career and goals!
