Should I join the military

[LFA20]

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Hi guys,

I have fortunately been accepted to my state school on December 2nd and I need some advice on what I should do.

The tuition at my state school is 280k including living but my parents are willing to lend me half of it at no interest. My uncle will lend me the rest at 2.3% interest(not a student loan so no grace period, etc). I will start taking out that loan during my last 2 years so the interest doesn't accumulate as much. However, I really don't want to put my parents through financial burden. They have already paid my undergrad tuition and I feel that it is time for me to be on my own. I am also worried about the job prospect after graduation.

If I do decide to join the military, I won't have to worry about debt or getting a job. My parents can keep their money and won't have to worry about me. I also feel like I could get a great experience by joining. However, I am a little nervous about being away from my family and friends for 4+ years.

I sat down with my parents and talked about this and they said I could do what I feel most comfortable with.

any advice?

 

[sgv]

that looks like a very personal decision and seeing how no one here knows your family relationships or your motivation for a military life, we can't clue you in on what's best for you...

 

[Glimmer1991]

You could always just take that money from your parents and pay it back to them later, ya know.

Edit: Wait, that sort of sounds like what you are doing in the first place. Obviously, going into the military is your call, and I think it is great that you are so respectful of your parents' finances. However, surely they wouldn't be offering to lend you half the money if it would put them in some huge financial strain.

 

[kevin512]

I was in the same situation 5 years ago. I told my Dad, "thanks, but no thanks". I wanted to be financially free from my family. The Navy has been great to me, but its not for everyone. I worked one year private practice and I am happy that I left... dont get me wrong, I miss the autonomy and large paycheck... But life isnt all about the bottom line. In the Navy I dont worry about money... or comparing my numbers to a peer.

I'm personally seeking adventure for 4 years: I plan to stay in central cali for 1 year, then move to San Diego/Japan for 2 years (with a carrier), and then somewhere else for my last year. Some of my friends like stability so they tried to stay close to home or take longer orders to move less... I def did not want the latter.

PM me if you have any questions. We can speak on the phone.

Kevin