Many students across the country make the choice to enlist in the military after graduating. The main question other people have for these students is, “Why?” Monticello seniors, Audrey Shore and Bryan Koon, are willing to share their reasons.
Senior Audrey Shore said, “I have wanted to join the military ever since I started thinking about my plans after high school. The military is a great way for me to pay for my college and have a lot of great experiences along the way.”
Senior Bryan Koon said he plans on enlisting in the army “to serve God and our country and [for] self improvement,” and when asked to elaborate, he said, “I know God gave me an able body and a willing mind to allow me to fight for my brother and sisters.”
The military can be a wonderful opportunity for students to improve discipline, learn teamwork skills, and oftentimes travel internationally.
Many people are on the fence about enlisting due to many factors ranging from things like lack of motivation to fear. Bryan encouraged people to consider it, “You will probably make close friends that will last a lifetime. You will develop great life skills that will carry you for the rest of your life which will look good on a resume. The experiences will change you for the better and you can sign for just 3 years and if you like it enough you can sign a new contract.”
In response to the same manner of question, Audrey said, “I think that the military is a great option that gives you a lot of great opportunities if you are willing to give up your time. I think the time commitment is worth it though because the military can allow you to travel to places you wouldn’t normally be able to and meet some interesting people. It’s a great option but it’s not the only option.”
One of our teachers, Ed Mennenga, enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps immediately after graduating high school and talked about the benefits he received. “I knew I wasn’t ready for college right after high school, and the Marine Corps helped me gain the self-reliance and professionalism that set me apart from my peers in college and teaching.”
The military can be a wonderful opportunity for anyone to pursue a career without moving immediately to college or the standard workforce.
Aurora Cooper, Staff Writer
The Sage Informer 
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