join the navy or go to college first?

[Scarlet]

I know that I’m not a Navy Mom but I am some of you could offer some advice.

I'm currently 17 and about to enter my last year if high school. At this point I am very much considering joining the Navy. I have no doubts on my ability to pass the ASVAB because I took a practice test in school and got a 53 without even studying. At the time I was just took the test out of curiosity, which has now resulted in my interest to join. But I'm concerned as to how to break the news to my parents that I really want to join.

I am not planning to make it a career and I don't think I would join after college if I went to college right after high school. I want to join so I could afford college on my own, see the world, and have time to be independent from my parents. I want to be able to make my own money and pay for myself to go to school. I also don’t want to go to school right after high school because I don’t know what I want to do yet and don't think that I have the discipline to make that education count.

I'm looking for advice for introducing my serious interest of joining the Navy to my parents and family. I am also looking for advice as to what I should do in my situation.

[Buckeyebill]

Scarlet,

One never knows what will happen when you join the Navy you just might fall in love will it. Your first year college is not an option because of boot camp, "A" and "B" Schools.  When you get to your first command you will be working on warfare pins "Information Dominance"  or  "Enlisted Surface Warfare" or Aviation Warfare Pin.  Here is the good part you may earn college credits  for some or all or these things .  Good Luck

[CryptoDad]

Twelve years ago my daughter was exactly where you are today. 17, starting her senior year of HS, uncertain about her future, not wanting to go into debt for college and looking for a chance to do some growing up on her own.

How did she do it? She simply asked her mom to drive her to the Navy recruiting office. She said she just wanted mom's participation in exploring ways to finance her education. At 17 you do need parental approval to join the military, so you want to get mom or dad into the process right at the start. Or at least make them think they are in at the start. If you can get mom into the Recruiters', they can make the case for joining the Navy better than you can alone. That's their full time job.

Well, the 4 year enlistment has stretched out to more than 11. She will be leaving active duty this fall with a Bachelors degree paid for by the Navy and with plans to use her GI Bill benefits to earn another degree, possibly in cyber-security. What an incredible 12 years! She's been places and done things that make my head spin. Good luck with your parents.

[Scarlet]

Can any one share they're how they dealed with their kids joining the Navy. I am a little worried because I know my mom would kiss me way too much. I want to hear how you guys took it so I could have an idea of what my parents would go through and what to expect.

[Buckeyebill]

Scarlet, savor those kisses because it may be awhile before the next.  There is no love more special than a mom's love...............

[Concernedad]

Ahem. 

[CryptoDad]

   ;)

[dibaby]

My daughter is attending Fall semester and going to boot camp in Jan. She wanted the college experience but also wanted to travel and get help paying for college. As a newbie Navy Mom, I was surprised, nervous and proud. If you do decide to enlist, give your parents the chance to get used to the idea, how you explained your reasons on here were mature and heartfelt.