Individuals with Bachelors Degrees Serving as Enlisted Personnel: A Closer Look
Introduction
Many individuals with bachelors degrees choose to serve in the military as enlisted personnel, contrary to the common perception that only those with less academic background make this choice. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, highlighting several key factors such as career preferences, financial considerations, and personal motivations.
Why Enlisted?
Several reasons drive individuals with bachelors degrees to opt for military service as enlisted personnel. Here are some key factors:
Career Choice
Some individuals prefer the hands-on experience and lifestyle associated with the enlisted life over the traditional officer roles. Enlisted personnel are often directly involved in different aspects of military operations, providing a unique sense of camaraderie and responsibility.
Financial Considerations
Enlisted roles often offer immediate financial benefits such as higher salaries, housing allowances, healthcare, and other benefits. These benefits can be particularly appealing to graduates who may have outstanding student loans.
Desire for Specific Roles
Certain technical or specialized roles in the military may align closely with an individual's skills or interests. These roles often require a higher level of expertise and can offer significant career growth opportunities.
Path to Officer Status
Many enlisted personnel aim to advance to officer status through various programs. The U.S. Army, for example, has initiatives like the "Army to Gold" program, which allows enlisted soldiers to transition to officer roles while pursuing further education. This path provides both financial benefits and career advancement.
Personal Circumstances
Life circumstances such as family obligations, a desire to serve one's country, or a pre-existing connection to the military can also influence the decision to enlist. For instance, the Army may offer to pay off college loans in return for a four-year enlistment, accelerating the individual's ranks faster than their non-degreed peers.
Examples and Benefits
Many branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, actively encourage higher education and offer programs to support enlisted personnel in attaining higher degrees. This section explores some real-world examples and benefits:
College Programs and Financial Assistance
For instance, when the Army was short on recruits, they offered to pay up to $47,000 in college loans in exchange for a four-year enlistment. Similarly, the Army enlists and promotes individuals who have well-rounded careers, with superior performance on the job. These individuals are often encouraged to pursue educational opportunities to enhance their careers further.
Enlisted with Master's Degrees
Enlisted personnel with master's degrees are common in the military. The Navy, for example, offers programs to support education. An E6 enlisted in the Navy, despite not being promoted to E7 Chief in just over one year, was advised to enroll in college courses and participate in community volunteering. This strategy paid off, as the individual successfully earned a bachelor's degree and advanced in their career.
Conclusion
While many individuals with bachelors degrees opt for officer positions in the military, a significant number choose to serve as enlisted personnel. This choice is influenced by a variety of factors, including career preferences, financial considerations, personal motivations, and opportunities for education and advancement. The military recognizes and values these individuals, offering numerous benefits and pathways to success.