A letter writer dreams of joining the military and is looking for the next steps.
I’m excited for your adventure, says our elder. Here are some resources that may help.
Dear EWC
It has always been a dream of mine to join the United States military. If all goes as planned, I hope to join after college. I originally believed that I wouldn’t be eligible to join, due to being on medicine for anxiety, but after talking to a friend who’s joining the military, I realized that I could still join, if I stop taking my medicine before I join, which given how my mental state/condition has improved greatly since high school, I feel very confident about. With that said, however, I’m not sure how I should join, if waiting until I graduate would be too long, which branch I should join, and I have so many other questions. I’m just looking for some advice on where to start, who to talk to, etc. Not sure if this is the right place for that, but hopefully you guys can help me in some way, shape, or form. Thanks!
Angela-Rose replies
What a wonderful aspiration it is to consider joining the military. I admire your desire to serve your country! It sounds like you are still taking anxiety medication. I applaud you for taking such notable steps to manage your mental health like taking prescribed medications when needed. So, working with a provider is the best way to maintain a healthy balance in life. Therefore, before stopping this, it would be very wise to ask your doctor if you need to stop the medication in order to join the military or not. If you have not already done so, please ask your doctor for a plan for discontinuing the medication in a safe manner if it is necessary and if this is the right decision for you after seeking counsel from a physician or licensed practitioner.
It sounds from your email like you are in college. College counselors are trained to advise students on career endeavors and so I suggest you reach out to your college career office and find out which advisor is the most knowledgeable regarding the options for the military. The college counselor will assist you to compare your skills, talents, grades and aspirations with the career options in the military and help you consider all the options in an objective manner from a variety of perspectives.
It is wise to gather information for such an important decision from many trusted sources. Perhaps there was a teacher in high school who knew you well with whom you might want to discuss this, and perhaps your parents may have some insights as well. Gathering information from many sources for such an important decision is helpful before you make a final decision.
You may wish to start a folder and notebook with information as you gather it as well as write down thoughts weighing the pros and cons of each branch of the military. To get you started, I have listed two websites below that have information comparing the different options. It is important to look for objective and trustworthy information. Good luck. I am excited for your adventure as you consider all the opportunities available to you. Don’t hesitate to contact us again with more questions or to let us know how your search is going.
Consider Different Branches of The Military
Comparison of Military Branches
Article #: 468885
Category: Career