If you're looking for a kick start in life, the military might be the answer.
Before you go trotting down to the recruiter, do some research.
The military can be a great way to help find and develop a career, or a complete waste of time.
That's something you need to decide for yourself.
This is not a recruitment site. We're here to help you decide what's best for YOU.
Before You Enlist, Know What You're Getting Into
So there you are, deciding what to do next, and it hits you. Join the military.
It could be a great idea and help set up your future. There's education assistance, job training, travel, and the opportunity to find out who you are and what you're made of.
The military offers a wide variety of career opportunities. But military service isn't for everybody.
And one branch may be a better choice for you than another.
An Army recruiter isn't necessarily going to tell a self-taught computer expert that the Air Force might offer a better career path. The Army has high-tech fields too, of course.
Oh, and recruiters have recruiting goals to meet. But I'm sure that would never encourage anyone to bend the truth.
That's why you should investigate your options before signing anything.
Real Perspectives on Military Life
MilitaryNewbie exists to help people understand what military service actually involves.
Not just from the perspective of recruiters or the media, but from veterans who remember the anxiety, excitement, and second thoughts that come with joining.
Some veterans loved their military careers. Others couldn't wait to get out. Both perspectives can help someone considering enlistment.
The goal is to give you information, different viewpoints, and resources that make your decision easier to understand.
You'll find straightforward advice, personal opinions, historical military publications, and practical information about preparing for service.
Not every article will tell you what you want to hear. That's part of the point.
Start Your Military Research
These resources are a good place to begin:
- Military Recruiters — Questions to Ask Before Enlisting
- Military Basic Training — What to Expect and How to Prepare
- ASVAB Practice Tests and Study Guide
- Military Education Benefits
- Military Physical Fitness Preparation
- Things to Know Before Joining the Military
- Military Manuals Library
- Guides and Resources
The Oath of Enlistment
The Constitution of the United States is what American military members swear to support and defend.
I DO SOLEMNLY SWEAR (OR AFFIRM) THAT I WILL SUPPORT AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES AGAINST ALL ENEMIES, FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC; THAT I WILL BEAR TRUE FAITH AND ALLEGIANCE TO THE SAME; AND THAT I WILL OBEY THE ORDERS OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE ORDERS OF THE OFFICERS APPOINTED OVER ME, ACCORDING TO REGULATIONS AND THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE. SO HELP ME GOD.
The oath isn't just something you say at a ceremony. Understand what you're promising before you raise your right hand.
Use the Resources, Then Make Your Own Decision
The most important thing you can do before joining is research.
Compare the branches. Investigate the jobs. Understand the commitments you're making and the opportunities that may be available.
Don't make your decision based only on what a recruiter, a relative, or some guy on the internet tells you.
Learn as much as you can and decide whether military service is right for you.
Good luck.
Contact MilitaryNewbie
Questions, suggestions, or feedback? Email info@militarynewbie.com.
Originally published September 2013. Updated October 2026.