How to Help Your Young Service Member Choose the Right Career Path in the Military

educational planning
Written By Hilari Luck

The career selection process of the U.S. military is one of the most defining moments of any new service member’s military career. Since the career path a young service member chooses essentially determines their responsibilities and future opportunities, choosing the right career path is a necessity. 

As the parent of a new service member, you might want to assist in making sure your young service member makes the right choice. Below is a guide on how to help your service member choose the right career path in the military.

Step 1: Understanding the Different Branches in the Military and their Career Opportunities

The first step in helping your young service member choose the right career path is understanding the different branches of the U.S. military, their unique roles, and the career opportunities each one offers. Because the different branches of the military have different responsibilities, they require different services and as such, offer different career opportunities. Knowing the specific branch your service member is a part of helps streamline the process of choosing the right career path for them.

Step 2: Identify Skills and Interests

“There are two things you need to consider when choosing a career path; your skill and your interests. Why will the military be any different.” I heard those words during one of my orientations as a new service member, and I haven’t forgotten them since. The speaker was absolutely right of course, one’s skills and interests are essential for choosing a career path in the military. 

Encourage your young service member to think about what they enjoy doing and what they are good at. Talk with them about their strengths and interests and identify traits that may help narrow down potential career paths. This might not tell them what career part to choose, but it will certainly help set them down the right path.

Step 3: Research and Ask Questions

Sometimes, your service member already has a career path in mind. Other times, they are stuck between several different options. Here’s a great opportunity to step in. Help your young service member research the different career paths to gain a more in-depth insight into each one and help them make a more informed decision. 

Do they need even more insight? Encourage them to do their research. Let them visit official military websites to learn more about available jobs. Speaking with current or former service members can also be a good option. They can also meet with a military recruiter for more professional insight when more than just basic information wouldn’t do.

Step 4: Consider Long-Term Goals

Choosing a career path is not just about the present, it’s also about the future. Ask your young service member to think about where they see themselves in five or ten years. Do they want to gain leadership skills? Are they hoping to earn a college degree while serving? Do they want a job that transfers easily to civilian life?

This is important because military careers can offer education benefits, job training, and opportunities for advancement. Discuss how their chosen career path could support their long-term goals both during and after their service.

Step 5: Support Their Decision

Once your young service member has explored their options, the final decision is up to them. Your role is to offer guidance and encouragement. Remind them that the military provides opportunities to learn, grow, and make a difference.

Conclusion

Choosing the right career path is an important step in your young service member’s journey. By carefully going through these steps with your young service member, you can help them make the right decision and feel confident in it.

Useful Resources

Hilari Luck
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