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Should I enlist in the Air Force to build discipline & figure out what I want to pursue?
I am a 18 year old female with a high school degree and some college credit. I am currently in college as business undecided but only taking a few courses. I am failing two of them because I can't stick to one system (binder or notebook, pen or pencil?). A lot of excuses.
My parents have a 529 and are paying for my college education, which I know is a privilege in of itself.
I want to be a better individual and "get into shape".
I want to hear genuine advice on what I should do
6 answers
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
You're not lazy or incapable just because you're unsure whether to choose a binder or a notebook. Feeling stuck like that often means you're overwhelmed, not unmotivated. The fact that you're thinking about your future at 18 shows you care about improving, not that you're failing.
Joining the Air Force can definitely help with building structure, discipline, and strength. For some, it's the perfect environment. But it's a big commitment, not just a quick fix. Before you decide, think about whether you need discipline or clarity. You might find both without committing to years of service. Consider taking fewer classes, working part-time, joining ROTC, getting a personal trainer, or seeking therapy or an ADHD screening if focus is hard. Even a planned gap semester could help you learn discipline with less risk.
You mentioned the 529 and how fortunate that is. Recognizing that shows you're thoughtful. You don't have to push yourself to the extreme to grow stronger. Growth doesn't always mean choosing the hardest path. If you want structure and to get in shape, you can start with routines, fitness goals, and smaller commitments. The military is honorable, but it should be a choice made with confidence, not because you're feeling down about yourself.
Joining the Air Force can definitely help with building structure, discipline, and strength. For some, it's the perfect environment. But it's a big commitment, not just a quick fix. Before you decide, think about whether you need discipline or clarity. You might find both without committing to years of service. Consider taking fewer classes, working part-time, joining ROTC, getting a personal trainer, or seeking therapy or an ADHD screening if focus is hard. Even a planned gap semester could help you learn discipline with less risk.
You mentioned the 529 and how fortunate that is. Recognizing that shows you're thoughtful. You don't have to push yourself to the extreme to grow stronger. Growth doesn't always mean choosing the hardest path. If you want structure and to get in shape, you can start with routines, fitness goals, and smaller commitments. The military is honorable, but it should be a choice made with confidence, not because you're feeling down about yourself.
Updated
Smitha’s Answer
Hi Sam,
It’s good to know that you are thinking and exploring about your future career seriously to be a better individual. Also, you have gratitude towards your parents for they are taking care of your education right now ( 529 plan). Its ok to be unsure as you are still exploring and giving excuses is that you need clarity of what you want to do. To help you further, I would like to ask you how do you see yourself 20 years from now, what type of work would you like to do, what is the lifestyle you want to lead? Shortlist your interests, passions. what skills you are good at and whether your aptitude matches your work profile? Just explore the subjects you have taken does it match your interests. You will be able to identify your strengths and get clarity. Discipline comes with clear goal, patience, and responsibility. Wish you All the Best!!
It’s good to know that you are thinking and exploring about your future career seriously to be a better individual. Also, you have gratitude towards your parents for they are taking care of your education right now ( 529 plan). Its ok to be unsure as you are still exploring and giving excuses is that you need clarity of what you want to do. To help you further, I would like to ask you how do you see yourself 20 years from now, what type of work would you like to do, what is the lifestyle you want to lead? Shortlist your interests, passions. what skills you are good at and whether your aptitude matches your work profile? Just explore the subjects you have taken does it match your interests. You will be able to identify your strengths and get clarity. Discipline comes with clear goal, patience, and responsibility. Wish you All the Best!!
Updated
Brian’s Answer
If you are currently struggling in your classes, it is important to take action before the semester ends to protect your GPA. It may also be a good time to reflect on whether college is the right path for you at this moment.
I was in a similar situation several years ago and decided to enlist in the military while pursuing my degree. The military offers many different areas of focus and disciplines. I recommend the following steps:
1. Talk to your parents: Discuss your grades with them. They may want to reallocate college funds toward other investments or savings for the future.
2. Consult your college advisor: Explore your options regarding your major and academic standing.
3. Research enlistment: If you are serious about the military, talk to friends and family before reaching out to a recruiter.
4. The ASVAB: Your final step would be taking the ASVAB test, which helps determine which military roles are the best fit for you.
Regardless of what you decide, addressing these challenges head-on is a mature step. I wish you the best of luck.
I was in a similar situation several years ago and decided to enlist in the military while pursuing my degree. The military offers many different areas of focus and disciplines. I recommend the following steps:
1. Talk to your parents: Discuss your grades with them. They may want to reallocate college funds toward other investments or savings for the future.
2. Consult your college advisor: Explore your options regarding your major and academic standing.
3. Research enlistment: If you are serious about the military, talk to friends and family before reaching out to a recruiter.
4. The ASVAB: Your final step would be taking the ASVAB test, which helps determine which military roles are the best fit for you.
Regardless of what you decide, addressing these challenges head-on is a mature step. I wish you the best of luck.
Thanks for your encouragement!
Sam
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Sam,
Since you already received five answers, I'll take a different approach.
It sounds like you are perhaps living at home while going to school. Today's youth are much more attached to their parents, and sometimes overly reliant upon them in their day to day decision-making. Perhaps what you need is to go to school away from home, where you will learn the basics of living as a young adult - doing your own housekeeping, grocery shopping, etc., as well as taking responsibility for your actions/decisions?
To be successful in college, it's important to see it as a means to an end. You need to see a goal at the end of the tunnel - better job opportunities, self-enlightenment, or whatever. It's sort of like having to eat your vegetables if you want dessert!
It's okay to not know where you are headed. Usually that becomes more visible as you take the first 45 hours or so of college classes.
I am one who normally advocates for young people to enlist, especially women, as it helps to build self-confidence. We too easily "fall in love" and then when it doesn't work out, hang on, for financial security reasons. I think every young person needs to know that they can in fact stand alone if they have to. That being said, military personnel are sometimes called upon to do things they don't agree with (Vietnam War, for example) and following lawful orders is expected of you. You are also expected to serve out the length of your enlistment. Failing to do so can result in you going to prison. This is not a decision to make lightly!
It's also okay to need medical help in coping with life's stressors, as others have pointed out. I do agree that you need to get your grades up, as college transcripts are just like the HS permanent record. Stay up on your readings and assignments, and dedicate time each day to studying. While studying, turn off your phone. Give it your undivided attention.
Hopefully you find something here that is useful. Best of luck to you!
Kim
Since you already received five answers, I'll take a different approach.
It sounds like you are perhaps living at home while going to school. Today's youth are much more attached to their parents, and sometimes overly reliant upon them in their day to day decision-making. Perhaps what you need is to go to school away from home, where you will learn the basics of living as a young adult - doing your own housekeeping, grocery shopping, etc., as well as taking responsibility for your actions/decisions?
To be successful in college, it's important to see it as a means to an end. You need to see a goal at the end of the tunnel - better job opportunities, self-enlightenment, or whatever. It's sort of like having to eat your vegetables if you want dessert!
It's okay to not know where you are headed. Usually that becomes more visible as you take the first 45 hours or so of college classes.
I am one who normally advocates for young people to enlist, especially women, as it helps to build self-confidence. We too easily "fall in love" and then when it doesn't work out, hang on, for financial security reasons. I think every young person needs to know that they can in fact stand alone if they have to. That being said, military personnel are sometimes called upon to do things they don't agree with (Vietnam War, for example) and following lawful orders is expected of you. You are also expected to serve out the length of your enlistment. Failing to do so can result in you going to prison. This is not a decision to make lightly!
It's also okay to need medical help in coping with life's stressors, as others have pointed out. I do agree that you need to get your grades up, as college transcripts are just like the HS permanent record. Stay up on your readings and assignments, and dedicate time each day to studying. While studying, turn off your phone. Give it your undivided attention.
Hopefully you find something here that is useful. Best of luck to you!
Kim
Updated
Martha D.’s Answer
Hi Sam, I join Vianne in commending you for your self-reflection and appreciation of your parents' support. I also think that she is spot-on in saying that joining the military is honorable but may be more extreme than you need at this point to feel better physically and mentally.
If you can make it through this semester, the summer break may be enough to rejuvenate. If not, see if you could withdraw and try again in the Fall. In the meantime, set achievable goals for yourself, such as exercising every day, getting into nature at least a few times per week (yes, I understand it is winter in Ohio now), working at least part-time or in a temporary job, helping around the house and/or anything else that feels productive to you. I bet meeting this type of goal will help you feel better which will help you think clearly and find (recover) your motivation.
There will be time to join the Air Force if that is what you want. Whatever you decide, we wish you good luck!
If you can make it through this semester, the summer break may be enough to rejuvenate. If not, see if you could withdraw and try again in the Fall. In the meantime, set achievable goals for yourself, such as exercising every day, getting into nature at least a few times per week (yes, I understand it is winter in Ohio now), working at least part-time or in a temporary job, helping around the house and/or anything else that feels productive to you. I bet meeting this type of goal will help you feel better which will help you think clearly and find (recover) your motivation.
There will be time to join the Air Force if that is what you want. Whatever you decide, we wish you good luck!
Updated
Jim’s Answer
I'm really proud of you for considering joining the military. My son is in the Army, and it's a great path! First, try to meet with a recruiter to learn about the commitment involved. Also, see if you can have a shadow day to tour the campus and get a feel for it. Plus, they often help pay for college and find a field that matches your skills. Best of luck to you!
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