Now that your time in the military has come to an end, you have to answer one very important question: what are you going to do with the rest of your life? Although you may have some ideas, you need to draw out a plan for the future.
If you have yet to earn a college degree, there is no better time than now to enroll. When you combine a degree with the skills that you picked up in the military, you will soon find that you are a valuable asset to any employer.
How To Choose a Degree Program
Before you even look for a college or university, you need to decide what type of degree is best for you. In other words, answer this question: what career path do you want to follow upon graduation?
Depending on the school, you may have access to 100+ areas of study. Focus on choosing the program that is best for you, based on your current skills and future career goals.
Don’t Get Lazy Research And Choose The Right School!
This goes hand in hand with choosing a degree program. Remember, not every school has every major. For this reason, you need to be selective.
As you compare schools, you need to focus on more than the available programs. Also consider details such as tuition, location, and size.
Find the Money you need! Really!
Wouldn?t it be nice if everybody could attend college for free? Unfortunately, this is not how things work.
That being said, there are many financial aid options to consider. This is particularly true if you are a military veteran. One of your best options is the Post-9/11 GI Bill. With this, you may be covered for up to 100 percent of tuition and fees.
Also, get in touch with your branch of the military as well as the veterans? affairs office for more information on available funds.
Credit for Service?
Believe it or not, your service in the military may count as college credit. The American Council on Education helps colleges and universities decide which elements of your training and experience can be converted into credit.
Stay in Touch with Other Veterans
Is there a veterans group in your area? If so, stay in touch with others who are in the same position as you. It is not always easy transitioning to college life. To combat any issues that you may face, find others who you can lean on ? and vice versa.
Some people get their college degree before they join the military. If you did not do this, it is never too late to advance your education. Follow the steps above to obtain your degree after serving your country.
If you’re a vet…. you’ve already paid for your college with your many years of service. Go to college… not necessarily for a degree, but to provide you and your family with a higher value life.