A student is dishearteningly looking at their college options. While they want to get a good education, and a substantial career, they unfortunately will not be able to cover the costs. The student then begins looking at their options. For the first time, they start to consider enlisting in the military, but they are unaware of how to enlist and what this option would involve. 

With an average of less than one percent of graduating students enlisting in the military each year, most people are unaware of what compels people to serve. While becoming an active member of the military is quite challenging, it also offers a multitude of benefits for those who enlist. 

“My experience has been primarily positive. I have been in the Marines for almost 15 years,” said Patrick Christensen, a U.S. Marine Corps Recruiter. “Of course, the Marine Corps is also very challenging, but it has shaped me into who I am today.”

There are many different service options offered. For example, one of the lesser-known options in the military is the National Guard. The National Guard is a part of the Army and Air Force Reserves that respond to local and national emergencies. The Guard is generally part time, which allows students to attend school while typically serving two paid weeks out of the summer, and one weekend a month. 

“A couple reasons I decided to commit were for one I’m strongly influenced and inclined to do all I can to help people, my community or even my country,” said Brayden Mosoff, a senior at MCHS committed to the National Guard. 

Some of McHenry’s graduating class enlist in the military every year. Choosing a military post secondary pathway is a commitment unlike any other. It requires a lot of time, dedication, and perseverance, which is why it is one of the lesser-chosen options.

“Honestly, leaving my friends, family, and my girlfriend has been pretty hard on me,” said Mosoff. “I don’t want to leave them, however knowing that I am leaving for a good reason has also made me realize that it is a struggle I can work through with time.”

There are many different reasons why people decide to serve our country. While joining the military offers many benefits and is often very rewarding, it requires sacrifice most people are not willing to take. Making the commitment to become a future fighter may not always be comfortable, but it is fulfilling.