10 answers
Victory
Student
Columbia, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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What If I Don't Think Going to College So Soon Is Right for Me?
Hi! I am a Junior in high school and have plans in enlisting the military (Army) after graduation (attending basic this summer, hopefully). However, I am not too sure I want to transition to college education so quickly as I feel unprepared mentally and psychologically, and would to like some adventure and experience. I have interests in traveling, International/Global Affairs and Global Health (maybe Internal Medicine?), hence my desire go into the military. What do you recommend I should do? P.S. I live in SC and would like to continue my education and career pursuits outside of the state, you know to explore new territories and all that, however, I am skeptical due to my mother's insistence that I stay in-state and should go begin applying for my college applications next semester; I'm kinda looking at taking the gap year option though:(
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10 answers
Fatima Wood
RN
4
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Fatima’s Answer
If you're not sure about starting college, I wouldn't do it. It's expensive. Even if you get grants to cover, you don't want to waste time on a degree that you may or may not use. Going into the military, you'd likely be offered a chance at free education later on at a time when you may feel like you know what you want to study.
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Victory,
It is okay if you feel like going to college is not the right step for you right away. You have a lot going on when it comes to things like school, wanting to join the Army and you have a lot of different aspirations that you want to achieve in life. I think you should focus on completing high school, going to the Army basic training and focusing on your goals that you have. You always have the possibility of going back to college after the military and you have time to figure out what you want to do with your life. Hope everything goes well with your school year and Army training!
It is okay if you feel like going to college is not the right step for you right away. You have a lot going on when it comes to things like school, wanting to join the Army and you have a lot of different aspirations that you want to achieve in life. I think you should focus on completing high school, going to the Army basic training and focusing on your goals that you have. You always have the possibility of going back to college after the military and you have time to figure out what you want to do with your life. Hope everything goes well with your school year and Army training!
Daniel Park
Corporate Finance
2
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Hi Victory,
I think it is great that you are questioning what to do after high school. Many high school graduates simply follow societal expectations and begin undergraduate studies without a clear purpose. It takes courage to think differently and consider different paths, so kudos to you.
While the norm in the U.S. is to begin college/university directly after high school, it is common in many other countries to take a gap year (or a few!) to explore the real world before entering higher education. Of course, there are pros and cons to either of these decisions. Let me list a few.
If you go to college directly after high school: The pros are that you will begin college with many peers your age. You will feel equal to everyone as you explore various classes and potential degrees. The cons are that you may have less real-world context on why you are pursuing a degree, and how your education may benefit you in the long run. This may cause decreased motivation during your studies.
If you take one or a few gap years after high school: The pros are that you will likely gain some real-world experience. Military is one option that you are considering. There are many other options as well. Examples are traveling the world through global programs such as volunteering or study (or self-funded!), or doing a job that you are interested in. Search "gap year jobs and programs" for some potential ideas. The cons are that you may feel "late" and behind your age group by the time you begin your higher education.
Regarding going out of state versus staying in state, my recommendation is to not take on heavy debt for your higher education. If you are able to get scholarships for an out-of-state education, that could be a great path for the adventure you desire! But if you need to take on heavy debt, then state schools can also give you a great experience. I was once in your shoes, and I am ultimately very happy with my in-state education.
I hope that helps! Best of luck. And don't stress too much. You are still young, and many people use their teens and early twenties to explore their interests and learn about themselves.
There is no wrong decision at this stage because you can always change directions.
I think it is great that you are questioning what to do after high school. Many high school graduates simply follow societal expectations and begin undergraduate studies without a clear purpose. It takes courage to think differently and consider different paths, so kudos to you.
While the norm in the U.S. is to begin college/university directly after high school, it is common in many other countries to take a gap year (or a few!) to explore the real world before entering higher education. Of course, there are pros and cons to either of these decisions. Let me list a few.
If you go to college directly after high school: The pros are that you will begin college with many peers your age. You will feel equal to everyone as you explore various classes and potential degrees. The cons are that you may have less real-world context on why you are pursuing a degree, and how your education may benefit you in the long run. This may cause decreased motivation during your studies.
If you take one or a few gap years after high school: The pros are that you will likely gain some real-world experience. Military is one option that you are considering. There are many other options as well. Examples are traveling the world through global programs such as volunteering or study (or self-funded!), or doing a job that you are interested in. Search "gap year jobs and programs" for some potential ideas. The cons are that you may feel "late" and behind your age group by the time you begin your higher education.
Regarding going out of state versus staying in state, my recommendation is to not take on heavy debt for your higher education. If you are able to get scholarships for an out-of-state education, that could be a great path for the adventure you desire! But if you need to take on heavy debt, then state schools can also give you a great experience. I was once in your shoes, and I am ultimately very happy with my in-state education.
I hope that helps! Best of luck. And don't stress too much. You are still young, and many people use their teens and early twenties to explore their interests and learn about themselves.
There is no wrong decision at this stage because you can always change directions.
Rhea Dominique Male
Vendor Management
7
Answers
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Rhea Dominique’s Answer
It sounds like you have a clear vision for your future, and it's smart to recognize that you need time and experience before diving into college! Your gut feeling that you're not ready mentally or psychologically is perfectly valid, and taking a gap experience is often the most productive path for maturity and focus. Your plan to enlist in the Army is an excellent way to achieve your goals for adventure, travel, and experience in International/Global Affairs and Global Health. The military provides structure, essential life skills, and invaluable real-world training that will make you a more focused student later. Crucially, military service will earn you the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which is a powerful tool for your desired career path. This benefit covers the full cost of tuition and fees at any public in-state university (or a significant amount for private/out-of-state schools), a housing allowance, and money for books, essentially making your dream of attending a university outside of South Carolina financially feasible without relying on your mother's in-state tuition concerns. You should proceed with your plan for basic training this summer, as this decision strategically aligns your need for a break with your long-term goals. Regarding your mother's insistence on applying to college next semester, gently explain that your current focus is preparing for your military commitment and that you will apply to schools once you have a clear timeline, using your future veteran status and the GI Bill as a core part of your application strategy. This approach is not a rejection of education, but rather a responsible, highly strategic, and financially advantageous way of preparing for it.
Katie Cellich
Financial Controller
1
Answer
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Katie’s Answer
This is a super tricky question to navigate through, and in my opinion there is no right or wrong answer to this one. It very much depends on the individual and your specific circumstances in life.
What I can say from my experience is that College (or University where I am from) will be there whether you go straight away, or take a gap year. Whilst I started University as soon as I finished High School, I know many people who took time to travel, or even worked in different fields for a while before heading to university. It is also common to get to College or university and to realise that the course/major you enrolled in is not exactly for you, and to change your major in the middle of your degree. Remember that this time in your life is also the time where you are discovering who you are and who you are going to be as an adult, and so it is okay to be unsure about what that future looks like.
I understand that sometimes your family would like you to follow a certain path - I can't give you specific advice on this as I don't know your family, but they are the people you know the best in the world. Your parents love you and want the best for you, so if you feel comfortable, it might be something you have an open and honest conversation with them about.
I wish you the best in whatever decisions you decide to make. It sounds like you will gain great experience and insights from whichever path you choose!
What I can say from my experience is that College (or University where I am from) will be there whether you go straight away, or take a gap year. Whilst I started University as soon as I finished High School, I know many people who took time to travel, or even worked in different fields for a while before heading to university. It is also common to get to College or university and to realise that the course/major you enrolled in is not exactly for you, and to change your major in the middle of your degree. Remember that this time in your life is also the time where you are discovering who you are and who you are going to be as an adult, and so it is okay to be unsure about what that future looks like.
I understand that sometimes your family would like you to follow a certain path - I can't give you specific advice on this as I don't know your family, but they are the people you know the best in the world. Your parents love you and want the best for you, so if you feel comfortable, it might be something you have an open and honest conversation with them about.
I wish you the best in whatever decisions you decide to make. It sounds like you will gain great experience and insights from whichever path you choose!
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Victory. Many students need time to figure out what they truly want before committing to more years of study.
Taking time before college doesn't mean you're giving up on your education. It just means you want to enter that stage when you're ready. After your service, you can explore your interests in global affairs, international relations, or health care through military programs, travel opportunities, or specialized training. These experiences will help you better understand what field truly fits you, whether it's international medicine, public health, or global policy.
As for your mother's concern, it's understandable that she wants stability for you, especially with in-state colleges being more affordable. Still, it's important to communicate that you're not rejecting education, you're simply planning a different path to reach your goals.
You don't have to rush. Taking a gap year, or in your case, serving in the military, can be one of the most valuable decisions you make. It allows you to grow, gain confidence, and clarify your long-term goals so that when you do go to college, you'll be ready to make the most of it. All the best.
Taking time before college doesn't mean you're giving up on your education. It just means you want to enter that stage when you're ready. After your service, you can explore your interests in global affairs, international relations, or health care through military programs, travel opportunities, or specialized training. These experiences will help you better understand what field truly fits you, whether it's international medicine, public health, or global policy.
As for your mother's concern, it's understandable that she wants stability for you, especially with in-state colleges being more affordable. Still, it's important to communicate that you're not rejecting education, you're simply planning a different path to reach your goals.
You don't have to rush. Taking a gap year, or in your case, serving in the military, can be one of the most valuable decisions you make. It allows you to grow, gain confidence, and clarify your long-term goals so that when you do go to college, you'll be ready to make the most of it. All the best.
Angel Kiiru
Financial Analyst
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Hi Victory!
These are all valid and great things to be thinking about for your next steps.
Speaking from personal experience - I have a bit of an unconventional journey post-high school...I took about 3 years away from higher education to gain real-world experience while also drilling down on what exactly I wanted to purse professionally. I worked in customer service, leadership roles, and a revenue position before delving back into university studies. I was grateful for those years because I was able to gain practical skills and gave me clarity on my goals and how to achieve them.
My advice would be to:
- Make a pro's/con's list of your priorities: Write down what matters most to you - personal/career goals (travel, global affairs, etc.), financial stability, etc. and what you hope to gain from your experiences in the next 3-5 years.
- Explore your options: Even if you’re leaning toward world experiences, consider applying to colleges. This will help give you insight into available programs, financial aid packages, and scholarships. Just because you apply, doesn't mean you have to go.
- Lastly, think long-term: Ask yourself how each option aligns with where you want to be in five years.
Remember, there’s no single “right” path— your path may not look like the person next to you and that's okay! That's what makes your overall story special and unique to you! Best of luck :)
These are all valid and great things to be thinking about for your next steps.
Speaking from personal experience - I have a bit of an unconventional journey post-high school...I took about 3 years away from higher education to gain real-world experience while also drilling down on what exactly I wanted to purse professionally. I worked in customer service, leadership roles, and a revenue position before delving back into university studies. I was grateful for those years because I was able to gain practical skills and gave me clarity on my goals and how to achieve them.
My advice would be to:
- Make a pro's/con's list of your priorities: Write down what matters most to you - personal/career goals (travel, global affairs, etc.), financial stability, etc. and what you hope to gain from your experiences in the next 3-5 years.
- Explore your options: Even if you’re leaning toward world experiences, consider applying to colleges. This will help give you insight into available programs, financial aid packages, and scholarships. Just because you apply, doesn't mean you have to go.
- Lastly, think long-term: Ask yourself how each option aligns with where you want to be in five years.
Remember, there’s no single “right” path— your path may not look like the person next to you and that's okay! That's what makes your overall story special and unique to you! Best of luck :)
Joohee Kim
Financial controller
1
Answer
Singapore
Updated
Joohee’s Answer
Dear Victory,
First of all, I want to say how admirable it is that you already have a dream of joining the military. That takes courage, purpose, and a willingness to grow through real experience — and that’s something many people your age haven’t figured out yet.
Also, it’s completely normal to feel unprepared mentally or emotionally for college right now. Life doesn’t always follow a single timeline, and feeling uncertain just means you’re self-aware and thinking deeply about your future — which is a good thing.
Since you’re in Columbia, South Carolina, I’d really encourage you to have an open and honest conversation with your parents about what’s worrying them. Sometimes, parents’ insistence on going to college right away comes from practical reasons — like financial timelines or their own sense of security for you. Understanding their side can help you find a path that respects both your independence and their concerns.
And here’s something I’ve learned — almost no one ever feels completely “ready” for what comes next, whether it’s college or even the first job after graduation. I still remember how nervous I was when I started working at my first company. You will figure it out as you go. College isn’t just about choosing a major; it’s also a time to explore who you are — through different classes, meeting new people, joining activities, or even studying abroad as an exchange student. Many students discover new passions and directions along the way, and that’s part of the journey.
So while your plan to serve in the military and gain life experience is meaningful, don’t close the door on college completely. Think of it as another adventure — one that lets you grow, explore new environments, and learn more about yourself in ways you might not expect.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a path that helps you become more you — not just what others expect.
You’ve already shown courage and reflection, and that’s the best foundation for any future you decide to build.
Wishing you all the best on your journey,
Joohee from Singapore.
First of all, I want to say how admirable it is that you already have a dream of joining the military. That takes courage, purpose, and a willingness to grow through real experience — and that’s something many people your age haven’t figured out yet.
Also, it’s completely normal to feel unprepared mentally or emotionally for college right now. Life doesn’t always follow a single timeline, and feeling uncertain just means you’re self-aware and thinking deeply about your future — which is a good thing.
Since you’re in Columbia, South Carolina, I’d really encourage you to have an open and honest conversation with your parents about what’s worrying them. Sometimes, parents’ insistence on going to college right away comes from practical reasons — like financial timelines or their own sense of security for you. Understanding their side can help you find a path that respects both your independence and their concerns.
And here’s something I’ve learned — almost no one ever feels completely “ready” for what comes next, whether it’s college or even the first job after graduation. I still remember how nervous I was when I started working at my first company. You will figure it out as you go. College isn’t just about choosing a major; it’s also a time to explore who you are — through different classes, meeting new people, joining activities, or even studying abroad as an exchange student. Many students discover new passions and directions along the way, and that’s part of the journey.
So while your plan to serve in the military and gain life experience is meaningful, don’t close the door on college completely. Think of it as another adventure — one that lets you grow, explore new environments, and learn more about yourself in ways you might not expect.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a path that helps you become more you — not just what others expect.
You’ve already shown courage and reflection, and that’s the best foundation for any future you decide to build.
Wishing you all the best on your journey,
Joohee from Singapore.
Amy von Kaenel
Senior Product Manger
11
Answers
California, California
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Hello Victory,
You're asking the right questions, and you’re already showing a lot of self-awareness. After graduation, most people choose one of three paths: college, the military, or going straight into the workforce. All three are valid options for a new high school graduate. Each path will teach you more about the kinds of careers you do and don’t want — and that information is incredibly valuable. The hard part is just choosing where to start, because that first step can shape a lot of later decisions.
That’s why putting in the time now to understand your options is worth it. For example, your mom mentioned college. If you apply, you wouldn’t just pick a random school — you’d look into what majors they offer, and what kinds of careers those majors lead to. You should give that same level of thought to the other paths too.
If you’re considering the military, research each branch and look specifically at how it lines up with your interest in global health. Could you work in or near a hospital overseas? What roles exist? What training or credentials would you need?
If you’re thinking about working right after high school, ask: can you get an entry-level job in a hospital or clinic to see how you like the medical environment? A lot of people in healthcare actually start out in roles like Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), then build from there.
No matter which path you take in your first year after high school, stay curious. Explore different career paths, try things, and cross things off the list if they’re not for you. That process is not “wasting time” — it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in your future.
Research:
You're asking the right questions, and you’re already showing a lot of self-awareness. After graduation, most people choose one of three paths: college, the military, or going straight into the workforce. All three are valid options for a new high school graduate. Each path will teach you more about the kinds of careers you do and don’t want — and that information is incredibly valuable. The hard part is just choosing where to start, because that first step can shape a lot of later decisions.
That’s why putting in the time now to understand your options is worth it. For example, your mom mentioned college. If you apply, you wouldn’t just pick a random school — you’d look into what majors they offer, and what kinds of careers those majors lead to. You should give that same level of thought to the other paths too.
If you’re considering the military, research each branch and look specifically at how it lines up with your interest in global health. Could you work in or near a hospital overseas? What roles exist? What training or credentials would you need?
If you’re thinking about working right after high school, ask: can you get an entry-level job in a hospital or clinic to see how you like the medical environment? A lot of people in healthcare actually start out in roles like Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), then build from there.
No matter which path you take in your first year after high school, stay curious. Explore different career paths, try things, and cross things off the list if they’re not for you. That process is not “wasting time” — it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in your future.
Amy recommends the following next steps:
Vidhi Sharma
Finance
2
Answers
Delhi, DL
Updated
Vidhi’s Answer
Hi! It's awesome that you're planning ahead and exploring your options. That shows a lot of maturity and self-awareness. Taking time to gain experience before college is a smart choice. Joining the military can teach you discipline and leadership while exposing you to different environments. This will boost your confidence and widen your perspective, especially since you're interested in global affairs and health.
Here are a few things to think about:
Gap Year with Purpose: Joining the Army and traveling can help you grow both personally and professionally before starting college.
Education Later: Many people successfully go to college after military service, with benefits like the GI Bill to help with tuition and living costs.
Communicate with Family: Talk to your mom about your long-term plans. Explain that you're not avoiding education but preparing yourself for future success.
Keep Options Open: Even if you take a gap year, start looking into colleges and programs now. You can apply later or defer admission if needed.
Your plan shows ambition and a love for adventure—qualities that will help you in any career. Trust yourself, stay focused on your goals, and remember there's no single "right" path to success.
Here are a few things to think about:
Gap Year with Purpose: Joining the Army and traveling can help you grow both personally and professionally before starting college.
Education Later: Many people successfully go to college after military service, with benefits like the GI Bill to help with tuition and living costs.
Communicate with Family: Talk to your mom about your long-term plans. Explain that you're not avoiding education but preparing yourself for future success.
Keep Options Open: Even if you take a gap year, start looking into colleges and programs now. You can apply later or defer admission if needed.
Your plan shows ambition and a love for adventure—qualities that will help you in any career. Trust yourself, stay focused on your goals, and remember there's no single "right" path to success.