Dear Harlan,
I am a 17-year-old high-school student with some big concerns about college. I got accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and I am having a hard time deciding what school to choose. I never expected to get into USMA, so I never expected to have to make such a tough choice between USMA and a normal college. I have always wanted to go into the military and get a good education somewhere, and USMA provides both. I am not 100 percent sure about what I want to do for the rest of my life. Any advice in making this tough choice?
Potential West Pointer
Dear Potential West Pointer,
For those unfamiliar with the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, according to the USMA Web site: "By law, graduates of West Point are appointed on active duty as commissioned officers and serve in the U.S. Army for a minimum of five years." Students also get free tuition, room, board, health, dental and a minimum salary of about $6,500 (to help with other expenses). This means that by the time you're 27, you will have a top-notch education, no debt and a lifetime of experiences. If you're interested in the military, this is amazing. If not, it's the wrong fit. I would do five things before making your decision. (1) Find current students and ask questions. (2) Find West Point grads currently in the military and ask questions. (3) Find West Point grads who fulfilled their obligation and are working in the private sector and ask them questions. (4) Find West Pointers who didn't fulfill their obligation and ask questions. (5) Follow your heart. Do your research, listen to your voice inside and never look
back at your decision with regret.
No comments:
Post a Comment