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Military Career Starter Guide
Welcome to the Stars, Stripes & Self Military Career Starter Guide! As a veteran and attorney, I’ve navigated the path to a fulfilling military career and want to help you do the same. This guide will empower you to discover a military role that aligns with your unique skills, interests, and purpose, while building the confidence to succeed.
Step 1: Discover Your Why
Your military journey starts with purpose. Ask yourself:
- What values drive you? (e.g., duty, teamwork, resilience)
- Why do you want to serve? (e.g., leadership, adventure, education benefits)
- What skills do you bring? (e.g., tech-savvy, physical strength, problem-solving)
Action: Start with your values and motivation. Use role models that had certain traits you admire. Think of your future self 5 or even 10 years from now. What type of person would your future self be proud of and what actions can you take each day to get you closer to that standard. Chase your future self. Write down one reason you’re drawn to the military and one skill you’re proud of, and can continue developing. Take the time to brainstorm your reason and skill; this is your foundation.
Step 2: Explore Military Branches
The U.S. military offers six branches, each with unique roles and cultures:
- Army: Largest branch, diverse roles from infantry to cyber operations.
- Navy: Focus on sea-based missions, including aviation and submarines.
- Air Force: Air and space operations, strong in tech and intelligence.
- Marine Corps: Elite, expeditionary force emphasizing leadership and combat.
- Space Force: Newest branch, specializing in space and cyber missions.
- Coast Guard: Maritime security, search and rescue, and law enforcement.
- Action: Research two branches online (e.g., GoArmy.com, Navy.com). Note one role in each that excites you.
Step 3: Match Skills to Military Roles
Your skills and interests can guide you to a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or equivalent.
Examples:
- Tech-Savvy: Cyber operations (e.g., Army 17C Cyber Specialist).
- Leadership: Officer roles via ROTC or service academies.
- Medical Interests: Combat medic or Navy corpsman.
- Mechanical Skills: Aviation maintenance or engineering roles.
Action: Take a free online skills assessment (e.g., CareerOneStop.org) or list three skills and match them to roles using branch websites.
Step 4: Prepare for the ASVAB / ROTC Courseload
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) determines your eligibility and job options.
- Reinforce your knowledge in key areas: Math, Verbal, Science, and Technical skills.
- Resources: Free ASVAB practice tests (e.g., ASVABPracticeTests.com).
- Aim to add coursework to your current studies in order to access more specialized roles like cybersecurity.
Action: Take a practice ASVAB test and identify one weak area to study for 20 minutes daily.
Step 5: Maintain Physical and Mental Fitness
Military training demands fitness and resilience:
- Physical: Meet branch fitness standards (e.g., Army: 2-mile run, push-ups, sit-ups).
- Mental: Build discipline through goal-setting and stress management (e.g., journaling, meditation).
- Resources: Check branch websites for fitness requirements or try a free app like MyFitnessPal to track weight-loss and overall health goals.
Action: Start a 4-week fitness plan (e.g., 20 push-ups daily, 1-mile run 3x/week). Practice one mindfulness exercise (e.g., 5-minute deep, focused breathing). Stay tuned for additional physical fitness guides to be published soon.
Step 6: Connect with a Recruiter
A recruiter can guide you through enlistment:
- Prepare questions: “What roles match my skills?” “What are the benefits?”
- Be honest about your background (medical, legal history).
- Understand your contract before signing, seek a second opinion from friends, family, professionals.
Action: Schedule a meeting with a recruiter from your top branch choice. Bring a list of three questions.
Your Next Steps
You’re on your way to a purpose-driven military career! To go deeper:
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About Stars, Stripes & Self: Founded by a veteran and attorney, we empower military and veteran communities through delivering purpose-driven guidance. Patriotism and Personal Growth remain our North Stars.
