Yesterday I discussed what a great option ROTC is for college students who would otherwise be leveled by debt. Is there really any downside to enrolling in ROTC to have your education paid? The only thing I could come up with is what pertains to my situation directly. I happen to be a married while taking college courses. I don’t believe it would be so popular with my wife if I enlisted right now. That brings me to my point – military service can be extremely difficult for families. It is a much greater sacrifice to enter the military if you have a family or spouse you are leaving behind. In my single days, I would have very readily considered enlisting in ROTC. However since I am married, I don’t believe I could leave my wife for months or years at a time in order to serve in the military after college.
Is there any alternative? Honestly this is a pretty great system that the military has in play. I feel like it is a very generous opportunity for anyone who is willing to make the sacrifice. At the end of the day, I think it comes down to how much any one person needs the financial benefit. Granted many persons enlist because they genuinely want to serve their country. However for those of us who are swayed by the monetary benefits, we will continue to way the options and determine the best choice. For the single student, ROTC is a sparkling offer. For the married/ family oriented student ROTC requires a little more sacrifice. Either way, this is a wonderful program that our government offers.
