Hello, my name is Rob and I have recently been considering joining the military. The Air Force interests me the most so far, mainly due to the living quarters, but I'm definitely still considering other branches as well. I haven't talked to a recruiter yet as I would like to be more certain about it before I do so. I know they're busy people and I wouldn't want to use their time without more research first.

I have several reasons why I'm considering the military, but the biggest reason is that I want serious change in my life. I'm more or less stuck in my current living situation, but more then that, I want to grow as a person. It took me a few years of 'life' to realize the importance of that, but the more time that continues to goes by, the more difficult I know it will be.

Let me elaborate by what i mean by stuck. I'm 24, never had a skilled job, and due to certain circumstances, my temporary move back home a year ago ended up more long term then planned. Also I'm pretty introverted and more then anything else in my life, I want to get over that. From my experience, most military personnel generally have several core qualities? I guess is how I'd put it that I really respect and that's something I would like to cultivate in myself.

Currently I'm 20 credits from completing my AA and have a few computer certifications (A+ and network+), so I do consider myself intelligent and technical-minded, but I haven't had any success finding applicable work close to home. I know I could apply these skills in the military, and the more I think about it, I want to be part of something bigger then some random corporation anyways.

I'm not looking for someone to make the decision for me, but before I talk to a recruiter, I would greatly appreciate some feedback from people who have perhaps joined from similar situations and how it has affected you. I wouldn't call myself a pussy, nor can I recall being called one, but I could be a stronger person in a lot of situations, and it's something I want to get handled. I don't want to be someone else, just a better version of myself. Most questions I've had about the military I've been able to find answers too so far, and I would love to hear some personal experiences, like before and after, on how joining has helped you or someone you know.

-Rob

Rob

there's tons of information about our lives and experiences while serving in a large majority of the threads in here. just click around. We have representation from all branches in here.

I dunno Rob...There's a million different reasons for joining, a million different outcomes. Some good, some bad. I myself was an introvert when I joined (and I still am), but now I teach and lecture for a living. Wouldn't be doing that without the military experience. For some it jumps starts their ass into doing something (like me). I was in college, not really sure what the hell I wanted to do and ended up joining the Marines. My first tour was in the infantry and I.....didn't enjoy it that much (though the training and experience were invaluable), but eventually found a career in military intelligence and ended up doing 22 years.

Just remember to do something in the U.S. Armed Forces that you can do on the civilian side of this world. Like many of those that serve four year commitments as 0311 or 13B, don’t have ANY career opportunities on the outside. (Besides fast-food and Wal-Mart) Although you want to do something that is enjoyable remember what you want to do on the outside (civilian).

quote:

0311 or 13B, don’t have ANY career opportunities on the outside.

Hey, hey, not true. Local, state police and DEA were options I had as an 0311 if I didn't reenlist. Now there's TSA, DHS and the Air Marshall as well.

And....government contracting, but no telling how long that will be around. I actually hope those contracting opportunities go away soon.

PS-- Was also asked to serve as a small boat crew member. "We're looking for someone who can handle a weapon and won't ask too many questions". I, uh, didn't want to ask ANY questions and left that offer alone.

yeah, that was likely one of those opportunites you needed to just wave at as it passed by!

GraftZ, don't feel like the lone Ranger. I personally estimate that well over 70% of the guys who enlist want a change in life. I was no exception when I was 19, even though I had a good job and was well trained. Few people grow up and go to school with the very intention to make the military a career from the very beginning. The military does indeed have a knack for forming young people to the better (most of the time). Yes, in my own extended family there are folks who would benefit from military training. This has something to do with challenges, cameradery and team spirit few young people experience early. So, do a some years. Few people regret it afterwards. Life is longer than one thinks when young.