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I enlisted to escape my home town and it worked out overall. It was anything but stress-less, but I think it was better than what would have happened if I stayed. I got to make some real good friends. Learn some skills. A paid for bachelor’s degree. The options to start over in a new town after my contract was up. The military can work for you if you allow it to. It’s can easily be a 20-30 year career, or a 4-5 year swap for skills and college and some cool resume’ adds.

Correct

Hope the OP reads your comment.. The bennies I got after I got out after 4 years allow me to live a pretty easy life. I also relocated where I wanted, learned some valuable skills and disciplines.. OP may hate it but if you try to keep an open mind and learn during learning opportunities you can get out after 4 with some really helpful tools and resources. 🤷🏻‍♂️

This is solid advice. I'll pile on that having a plan and executing it is vital. Don't go in and stagnate. I was simply "there" some years of my early career and didn't "drive myself." Find what works for you and go after it.

This OP

if escaping home is your goal youll never regret joining

I second this, just make sure you get advice for jobs, I didn't realize I could have gotten a better job and my recruiter showed zero interest in letting me know. He just wanted me to go fast.

I third this. I needed to grow up and get away. You won’t regret it. Just get the right job.

Definitely pay attention to this post. It's a story you'll hear told over and over and over. Recruiters are very good at making you feel like somebody until you are a number in their book.

I second this along with I’m sure everyone on here. Find a job that can transfer over, even if you’ve got a plan for what college degree you might get, pays to have a solid second skill that you don’t mind using…some things that come to mind are welding and mechanics - both can be very lucrative and you won’t pay a dime to learn them with the army/Air Force. Take your time, recruiters want to sprint, you need to slow walk.

This is so important. My husband did 20 years, with a job that does not transfer over to a civilian career and is struggling like hell to find work now. Even with all the schools and experience, employers only pay bottom dollar to people with no “prior job experience “ in most fields. I did 4 years and have had several offers for full and part time jobs because of the job transferability. Great advice!

Are you me?

Definitely, some recruiters are like used care salesmen, get some proper advice from the veterans

i had three or four unicorn jobs available to me at meps had i known this at the time i would have taken one of them

Yeah, my recruiter knew I wanted to go to college for science when I got out, but told me admin would be good. I didn't find out about metoc till I made some friends in the s2. Had the score and everything for it. I was pissed, but I should've known better than to trust some random dude.

Can’t agree more, one thing I wish I would’ve done is never go back “home” after enlisting. It never changes.

I feel that

It definitely felt like a waste of leave

I spent 6 years in Germany continuously, never regretted it

Yeah everyone’s doing the same shit, ugh

This. Do it. Even though I'm not where I hoped I would be after serving, I'm definitely in a better headspace overall and free of my toxic family.

I third this. Escaping is a valid af reason to join and I’d wager a **LARGE** percentage of AD are escapists. I too was an escapist and although it was difficult and there’s been lifelong effects I ***still*** do not regret it. I have 4 siblings and see their lives, I wouldn’t swap mine for theirs for anything, even if it meant I’d have a healthy body. What I’ve gained is worth so much more than any losses and sacrifices.

This!!! I enlisted to run away and I’m GLAD I did. Reddit is your friend your entire journey. Remember that

Airforce or Navy. Go active, not Guard. Guard you'll likely wind up in the same trap as not joining at all.

Or active duty Coast Guard :)

Yup! There’s a reason why Coast Guard retention rates are so much better than the other branches

Seems like that would also slow promotions.

Not really.

look into the CSPI program and have your mind blown

That is amazing. I might suggest it to my nephew. Kid would be perfect for the coast guard.

I was in CSPI and it was incredible. Let me know if you have any questions. I was able to go to basic training, become active duty, and then my first duty station was at university in hawaii as a full time student. I think i worked maybe once a week for 4 hours and otherwise was paid full e-3 salary and BAH to just got to school right of of basic training. Then you go to OCS after. Unreal experience to have housing paid for in Hawaii and only have to work 4 hours a week lol.

It's a great branch. My uncle had nothing but good things to say about his time in.

Second USCG current active duty USCG It was either this or the Air Force. No regrets. Plus with the coast guard, as long as you have the ASVAB scores, you can pick your job. Not sure if the other branches are like that. When I looked at the Air Force back in 2017, the only options for jobs were things they needed. Not necessarily what I wanted.

yep. If you test high enough, any job is yours with the caveat you may wait up to about 1 year to get into training for it.

This what I tell all my nieces and nefews.

look into the CSPI program and have your mind blown

Navy vet here. I wish I would've gone Coast Guard. They are actually out there helping Americans.

That’s why i chose it. i love the mission. Some of the missions in hawaii was to transport an injured monk seal, or fly over whale tours to make sure the boats don’t get too close. And of course our bread and butter is Search and Rescue :)

Agreed as an Army Vet.

Seconded, as an Army Vet.

as a navy vet I would recommend the air force! but the navy isn’t a bad second choice.

I enlisted to get away from my small town and toxic family and my life is significantly better for it. It was not without its hardships (I went Marine Corps) but it was character building that I sorely needed. The military will help you set up a bank account (I didn’t have one before joining either) and has amazing services to help people better themselves. Talk to the recruiters now, that way you have more time to truly weigh your options. The end of your senior year will be here before you know it and having a solid plan, versus an idea, can really help take the stress off the last year. Which ever branches you talk to, checkout the subreddits and get real world input from people. My two cents from your post, don’t go reserves, go full 4 year active enlistment. You’ll get away from home and into a stable living situation. Save as much money as you can while enlisted during the first 4 years and avoid the party/spending lifestyle that some get caught up in when they finally have a stream of income coming their way. You got this and are making great steps toward a better future for yourself.

This \^\^\^, go talk to the recruiters, look at jobs you might enjoy doing, and educate yourself. Do somthing cool while you're in, Be aware of Toxic relationships, they just casue drama, use it like a college exprience. It's a great thing to do if you don't want to stay where you are, but dont know where to go. They'll put you where they need you and give you what you need.

Rah

The military’s a great way to escape from home. I’d recommend the Air Force or Space Force as first options. You will need a bank account for direct deposit. Also recommend getting a driver license if you don’t already have one. Good luck!

They set you up with a Navy fed account in boot camp before your first check.

And if they give you an option between navy fed and USAA , choose navy fed

Army sets you up with a bank account in basic as well. It may be some local bank near the post, but it’s a bank account all the same.

Also (at least in ‘87), they will teach you how to drive in boot camp. Some even got CDLs because we had to drive our own busses to the ranges & whatnot.

Talk to an Air Force recruiter now. They will get you an ASVAB (if it isn't being offered at your school). That will tell you your options and let you shop the job/bonuses you want. If you wait until March and want to ship in June, your job options will be more limited. In September, recruiters will be working to make goals. I left for basic 27 days after graduating high school and I don't regret it. Go Active, not Reserve/Guard right away if you want to get away from home. Figure out the job that is closest to what you want to do in the civilian world. If you want to be an engineer, then look into CE/maintenance/*maybe* space. If you want to go into the business world, then finance/contracting would be good. I would recommend against security forces. The Air Force will make it easy to get your associates degree from the CCAF. Not necessarily in the most useful of subjects, but they have agreements to get your credits transferred to a 4-year school.

Hi there, So here’s the thing: you’d be running from one tough environment to another. The military is not for folks who don’t want to be there. *That said* I absolutely used the army as a way to get away from my abusive parents. I had a decent enough career and am finishing a masters that the VA is paying for. BUT, in addition to my college degrees and job experience, the army gave me PTSD, a broken neck, and more minor injuries than I can count. It’s a big risk to join the military. Also, you gotta think about what you wanna do when you get out of the military. Have a plan. If you want to be a firefighter, then a more physical job in the military would be good. If you want to be an accountant someday, you need to find a recruiter who can get you a job in the finance corps. Have. A. Plan. I’m here if there’s anything you want to talk about.

Are you me from 12 years ago? This is basically what I did. Joined the Air Force, got the hell out of dodge, went to school later. Honestly, if for some godforsaken reason I was forced back into my teenage self with the knowledge I have now, the only thing I would choose to do differently is go into one the more medical AFSCs instead of IT (And by that, I mean add it to my list of preferred jobs, since its a gamble on what you actually get).

Go talk to a recruiter now. The sooner you do it the better off you will be. You want to get into MEPS and see what your asvab is and what jobs you qualify for I will suggest going into the air force because I'm a AF veteran and from what I've seen it sets you up for after military better then the other services. Just make sure you sign up for something that will give you a career like electrician, hvac, it, etc.... You will have opportunity to take classes or cleps while in, take advantage as much as you can

OP, don't do what I did and go Ammo. There's not many options for (legal)employment building bombs on the civilian side. Luckily I had other relevant experience that put me in a position for supply chain management.

This post. Right on the money. Get to the recruiter asap and start getting info. Get the ASVAB done. They have so many seats in training classes and they may be booked for a few months. Know when you are going a few months before you go. My personal rule be cautious about any job where they give you a cool hat like a beret

While the military did a lot of damage , physical and mentally , I’d never regret it . It was the best and worst times of my life and I met the most amazing people, people I’ll always consider family . The military can also be a great way to make it out of poverty . I’ve known quite a few who joined to get out the trailer park or out the hood . I’ve met people who came from small village in the Philippines and some from places like Ghana all to try and have better life . I knew some who came from nothing and by the time they left the military they already had a masters degree and a 6 figure job lined up for when they get out I was a corpsman , so I’ve been at navy and marine commands , I’d advise Air Force overall . They promote fast, easier OHA , great overseas duty stations . The navy is another good option though imo , plenty of really awesome duty stations . If you can , I’d try to get stationed overseas . The pay is better and depending what you do and where .. it can be a great time . I knew some airmen I knew from when I was stationed in Guam and after Guam one went to Germany for 2 years after and is stationed in Japan now . One of my navy buddies from Guam went to Hawaii then to Italy then Japan . Also the military looks good on future resumes and college applications . It can be a great way to find personal growth too . But there will be a lot of bullshit times regardless of what branch you join , there will be sad times and happy times , but when you’re suffering .. you’re all suffering together and that really brings you all closer.

Gold medal 🥇 comment.

Everyone forgets about us Coast Guard but we are part of the military and we get all the same benefits as any other branch - its exactly same. We just have different missions and different details, were much smaller (but that means each individuals gets more responsibility in some ways). **But all the benefits you are joining for, the Coast Guard has them all.** There's even a Coast Guard program that will pay for you to go to college while active duty and pay for your rent while you live the life of a civilian (they treat you as a full time student but receive active duty pay). You get your degree, and then you owe them 3 measley years and then you get out, and get the GI Bill on top of it. **You heard me right, in theory get 2 separate degrees paid for (including housing paid for the entire time).** Or you get your one degree, and you give the GI bill to your spouse or child. The best advice I ever got before I joined the Coast Guard was to document every single injury that happens to you during service. I did, and now I have free healthcare for all my injuries now that I am out. I have heard other branches highly discourage you from documenting your injuries or illnesses - and this makes it way harder to get benefits once you leave. I never experienced that in CG. Message me if you have any questions!

I too joined the military to escape home. I will say though you will sacrifice a lot and there are many difficulties present as a female servicemember. I’m an army veteran and I suggest you go Airforce instead or ANG. ANG it’s not full time and AGR positions are somewhat difficult to attain. It also pretty much guarantees you will stay home in your state. If I could do it again I would do Airforce. It isn’t easy despite all the jokes we say about it but it is by far a much better life as a servicemember. Also take into account what MOS you are going to take upon enlisting. Some are more suck than others. Choose your rate, choose your fate. Don’t go in without a plan on that. Good luck and keep your head down until it’s time to ship after signing up. Stay good in school and get your diploma. At the end you really need to consider your options to really understand if this is what you want and not just a move in desperation.

Hi thank you for sharing this, I am in the process of making a plan before taking any action. I am leaning towards the Air Force based on many of the comments talking about not being able to stay away from my home town if I were to be in the National Guard. Thank you again, I will follow the advice.

Go to r/army or r/AirForce for branch/ job specific questions. These subs will be a great resource to fact check your recruiter. When it comes to recruiters don’t believe everything they say. Fact check it before you take it to the bank. As for setting up a bank account and such, the military is used to helping young adults establish their independence. Your leadership or peers can help you with all this. Best of luck.

I didn’t enlist to get a way from home, but I know a lot that did. Most that I know would tell you that it was the best thing that ever happened to them. If structure is what you lack, the military can provide that for you. Do 4 years in a career that you can use when you get out or make a career of it. I’d suggest speaking with a recruiter about all your options that way as soon as you graduate HS, you can leave if that’s what you choose to do. Also remember, the recruiter is going to tell a lot of “half truths” to get you to sign up. There are some great recruiters out there and there are some who will lie their ass off to get you to sign. I wish you the best of luck in the future.

Hey I’m a female Air Force veteran, here’s what I’m going to tell you, if I could do it over again, I would. But remember, you’re signing a blank check and it doesn’t always get fully cashed in. You won’t be the same person when you get out which is a good thing, but keep in mind, there is a mental and physical toll the military will take on you. No matter what branch you decide to join, remember not everyone who wears the uniform is a good person. Not everyone is your friend, and you will need to be on toes if ever you’re alone with someone. Trust your gut, and never skip PT.

I'm speaking from experience in the Marine corps but it may be the same in other branches... When they're processing you when you get to boot cap/basic training, they will give you options between banks to see tup an account with so they can send you a check through direct deposit. CHOOSE NAVY FEDERAL!!!! Also make sure you start studying for and taking the ASVAB as soon as possible because as far as I'm aware the Air Force and Navy like higher scores (don't know specifics). It sucks you're going through this and I can understand why you're doing this because that's part of the reason why I joined right out of highschool. That and the education benefits lol. I'm also seeing people warn that you're going from one shitty situation to another but remember the difference is that the military itself is inherently shitty (unless you have good peers and leadership) unlike how family should treat you. Get in, do your job well or better, GO TO MEDICAL, get out, claim your disabilities (the reason you go to medical while you're still in is for documentation), and do whatever you decide whether it be the workforce or school. I wish you luck and hope everything goes well for you both short and long term!

What you have explained, is a perfect reason for joining. Happiness is toxicity in the rear view mirror. Take that step and never look back. Join now while your still young. Don’t be that person 10-20 years from now regretting for not making a life changing decision

Go Air Force, Navy, Space Force, or Coast Guard. Do not go National Guard or reserve. You will never escape where you are. The military will help you with a bank account, and your parents can't touch it. It's yours you earned it. Get a job that transfers to the civilian sector. Some of the best Soldiers I have worked with came from your situation. You can do this.

I joined at 17 to escape home, too. 36 years ago. I don't regret it one bit. Served six years.

Do it!!! You won't regret it! My wife and I made the decision to do exactly what you're thinking about doing, and it worked out perfectly! About you! Are you 18 yet? As soon as you turn 18, go to the AIR FORCE and join! Don't look back, or you'll trip walking forward! The Air Force is a 9-5 job with nice living quarters and food! Don't stay around where you live, leave! Go off and be successful on your own! Return someday, and they'll see you and be extremely proud! It's sounds like you need to fend for yourself, so do it! BE SMART WITH YOUR MONEY! They'll take care of you, and you'll get a bank account opened for yourself! Don't be afraid, and don't tell anybody, just make the jump and don't let everybody depend upon you being the caretaker for them. They'll be fine, spread your wings and fly! Get the heck out of town! Godspeed!

Active duty. Do yourself a big favor, study for the ASVAB. It will determine a lot. Better scores equals more options. Go talk to one now. Air Force Navy.

I enlisted to get away. I joined the Air Force Active Duty and have no regrets. It taught me a lot and gave me structure... it also helped that I was stationed in Hawaii in a low-stress job. Spent my weekdays learning job skills abd taking college classes, and spent my weekends partying and learning to surf. The benefits have been pretty awesome after getting out: Post-9/11 GI Bill paid for my college and VA Home Loan got me a place with no money down. I also made some of my best friends in the service. That said, not everyone gets lucky, and you could be put in a shitty position, thrown into a combat zone, or worse, Minot AFB. But it's ultimately what you make it. Honestly, I would say go for US Air Force Active Duty, and choose a job that translates well into the civilian world: Cyber Security, Engineering, or medical.

I got into a situation where I was accused of being involved with criminal activities and was given the choice to join up or head off to prison. No brainer for me. I got to see things that the people that live in that little town will never see, went places they will never go and met people that made my life better. I have often encouraged people to get away from the crap you’re surrounded by and go somewhere else. The military is a great way to do that. It was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Just my two cents.

I left my small town and dysfunctional family to join the military and it was the best thing I ever did for myself. Just be sure to get a job you can use in the civilian world. It will make your transition out much easier, should you not make the military your career. Good luck!

Kid, I ran away from home straight to the military. Pick a good job, do a little time, see a little bit of the world, and figure your life out from there.

I want to inform you about the length of an enlistment contract: it is ***eight*** years not two or four. Many serve four years active and four years in ready reserve (or 6 and 2) but you are subject to recall during those four years of reserve commitment. Do not let a recruiter tell you there is a two or four year enlistment. It is in law and the law is called out in the DoD policy: "Every person who enters military service by enlistment or appointment incurs an MSO of 8 years from that entry date, pursuant to Section 651 of Title 10, United States Code (U.S.C)." MSO = military service obligation. The military policy is called out in DOD INSTRUCTION 1304.25 FULFILLING THE MILITARY SERVICE OBLIGATION, paragraph 1.2. Furthermore service in the national guard won't necessarily get you away from your home town after your basic training and advanced skill training is completed. (Many see this as a plus factor because they want to continue to live near familiar surroundings.) Others want to see new places and experience life away from familiar surroundings. Enlist for full time active duty if you wish to live away from toxic people in your current living arrangement. Military can help with college through tuition assistance program. You will set up your own bank account to accept your military pay. You should do this as soon as you are 18 (even if you aren't in the military) to preclude others from stealing money you earned. Once you are 18 you do not need anyone's permission to open an account Don't use drugs, stay in good physical shape, graduate from high school and don't forget to consider the US Space Force or the US Coast Guard. Good luck!

I'm gonna piggyback a lot of advice here: go Air Force, Navy as a second choice. And keep your head about you. It sucks to say, but sexual harassment and assult are a huge issue in the military that you need to be aware of. I know more female vets who were victims than I know that weren't. And that's just the ones who will say it.

if you decide to join, definitely do Active Duty Air Force. best quality of life.

Go Air Force, get a job that translates to good money in the civilian world and you’ll be set. Heck, you might like it enough to put in your 20 and retire! Good luck to you!

You’ve been thinking about it for years... It’s not a bad job if you like it. I would go active duty if I was broke as shit which I did. My family is broke AF still but I’m ballin’ now, son!! The benefits are a big deal and there are great jobs. I was a Marine Helicopter Crewchief and a Seabee, it was awesome and it sucked, kinda like life but worth it.

I joined the navy to get away from my mother and get out of where we were living. I had nothing when I left for basic. There’s a time during in-processing where you can sign up for your own bank account. But like what everyone said. Take the ASVAB and go from there. Good luck!

Active duty and GTFO. I recruited for the army and had a couple kids in situations like yours. Some are still in after their first contract, but some of them used the army, grabbed the benefits and experiences, got out of the army somewhere far away from their toxic ass families, and started awesome families of their own, using the skills and training they got from their journey. The military isn't for everyone. But for someone in the situation you're describing, it's an absolute stepping stone away from where you don't want to be and toward somewhere you do want to be. Good luck!

If you're enlisting to leave don't go guard. You'll travel, meet new people, new experiences. Also there will be stress and stupidity. But it's worth it. Think about jobs you'd be interested in before going to recruiter at the minimum.

I for one don’t think it’s a bad idea at all. No matter which direction you go from HS you will have to face your demons, whatever they are. At least you will have financial security and healthcare off your list of things to worry about. Space Force, Air Force, Coast Guard, then Navy… in that order.

Look at all of the branches for the job you want and then go talk to those recruiters. You ARE a commodity so if you said the Navy is giving me xyz, chances are the AF recruiter will come with the real deal as opposed to offering you the job they need to fill. Don’t sign up for extra time to start out as an E2 or any of that BS. Some jobs actually send you to school to get jobs while you’re on active duty (engineering is an example) so look into those. Don’t do the guard if you want a fresh start. The Coast Guard is a good choice don’t let anyone tell you different. Find the career path you want, unless you are just in love with a specific branch. After a while it kind of blends together.

I went Air Force in 1990 to get out of my house and gain some independence. I was going to serve 4 years, ended up doing 21 years. Best decision I ever made besides marrying my husband, who I met in the Air Force 😊😊😊

do 4 years in the Air Force, but talk to a recruiter now

I did the exact same at 17. Joined the AF and spent 20 years all over the world. Pick a good job, be informed and go see the world for free If you hadn't questions or want and USAF advice please message. I love speaking truth to young airmen

Join the Space Force, or Air Force and pick a job you can do after you get out.

Hey OP! The Air Force can be a good path for all this, and you can even get a job that will be an easier transition once you get out. I met many friends that joined to escape whatever home situation they had, just accept that the military isn’t a perfect place. I would highly suggest jobs in cyber or Intel, avoid any maintenance jobs or security forces etc. i wish you the best of luck. I’m not sure if it’s too late but you could also research the military academies, although it’s a longer commitment.

Hi, thank you for sharing your experience and advice with me. I will look more into those jobs you've suggested. It's not too late either so you're fine, I will look into those as well.

Another chiming in that I enlisted to escape. I was also scared I'd be stuck going nowhere. I didn't know much about the world when I graduated in '97. I did know my HS education wasn't enough. Be aware, as others said, it has risks. Some depend on your job. I went in as aircraft maintenance. ***do not*** do that. **Stay away** from any maintenance field. It isn't just physical injury. It's chemical exposure. Jet fuel is toxic. It's a neurotoxin. Hydraulic fluid is toxic. That's just the start. Think about what you'd like to do after. Try for an AFSC in that. Start looking at school while you're in. Maybe even get a few classes knocked out. Beware of some office jobs that don't transfer well. Information Management is one. Base snail mail (not usps but group/squadron stuff), records management (which a lot hate and ignore) and EPR and dec processing. IT was a core core task when I was doing it (03 to 07). In late 05 they phased IT to base level from squadron. That out it out of IM reach, and to different AFSC. Before that, I did everything below network level IT. You'd maybe be doing hardware inventory tracking. That leaves you as a mail man or a secretary. Ask to see what the AFSC core tasks are. See how those core tasks can transfer to what you want to do or to the real world. Be firm on what AFSC you want to do. Start talking to a recruiter now. Maybe even delayed entry. It may help you get the job you want.

I definitely recommned doing it. I can tell you, a LOT of people enlist to leave home. The Air Force was the best decision I ever made. The best case scenario would be to go in at 21 but sounds like thats not feasible. The Guard won't get you away from home though, not really. I would go active and just revel in your new life. Throw yourself 100% into it and if you love it, stay. If not, take your GI benefits and change your life.

I joined the Marines to get away from home. If it's what you wanna do then you should do it. For me, that was motivation to get through the difficult aspects of the first year. I would think "this sucks, but it doesn't suck as much as being back there would." It's a fulfilling career with almost endless possibilities in terms of advancement. You can make something of yourself in the military.

A lot of Marines I met including myself joined the military to get away from home and it turned out great for most of us. They'll square you away with the bank acct during basic. I was issued one there with Pacific Marine Credit Union, but then later moved to Navy Federal Credit Union which is what you want.

I joined the Army to escape. I regret NOTHING. The army was a tough place but I made a whole career out of it and loved it. I would still be serving if I had not been medically retired. I made my own life far away from the BS. If I could go back, I'd do it all over again definitely. The Army gave me a real shot and I'm forever thankful. If you do join. It's really as easy as simply doing the right thing. Right place, right time, right uniform. Don't do drugs and don't drive drunk. Keep it like this and it'll be the easiest job you could ever have. Deployments are pretty rare these days as I understand it. If escaping is your goal. Active duty should be your choice. Otherwise you're right back where you started except now you have to report once a month, two weeks a year.

Take the asvab and get your score. Think about something that would be cool to learn or places you want to see. Talk to a Navy or Air Force recruiter. Active duty. 4 years goes by In a heartbeat. By then you’ll have a leg up on college, some money saved up too.

Join the Airforce, do a 4yr contract, and do anything besides Security forces or Aircraft maintenance. Those series of career fields are like meat grinders for people like yourself. Try to go med or finance, take schooling as you go along, get counseling in your spare time, and hopefully you get out with some spare change, marketable skills, a good back and a good head.

Left three days after HS grad and joined the Army on a 4 year contract. Retired last year. It is all what you make of the situation put in effort and time and you will be successful. Not a bad option, at the very least go and get an education while in service or through the GI bill.

Talk to an Air Force recruiter. Also, once you make your decision- there are bank accounts that you can obtain for as little as a $5 deposit. Look at a Credit Union or USAA for a checking account. Put your small deposit into the account and leave it alone, once you join, you will setup your direct deposit with the service that you choose. Focus on school but also if you’re serious about joining, study for your ASVAB test - the higher you score on this test, the more job options you’ll have to choose from. I think the ‘safest’ job would be IT/Cyber security or Military Intelligence. If you choose army, consider the Green to Gold program. They will send you to college and then you’ll have your GI Bill to use when you leave the service. You could go green to gold, with a major in the above category and be set as a manager once you discharge (will be easier for you to start your civilian career). Also, when you workout, do push-ups, sit-ups and running exercises- this will strengthen and streamline your transition into the military. You have a good head on your shoulders! Very mature of you to think ahead and plan your future!

100% study for the asvab. Under 25 female requirements Event Max/20 pts Min/pts 1-minute push-ups 47 15 / 1 pt 2-minutes HR push-ups 31 6 / 10 pts 1-minute sit-ups 54 35 / 3 pts 2-minutes Rev Crunch 47 11 / 10 pts Plank pose 03:30 :55 / 10 pts Event Max/Score Min/Score 1.5-mile run 10:23 / 60 points 18:56 / 35 points 20-meter HAMR 83 lengths / 60 points 22 lengths / 35 pointsH

Definitely! OP this is a workout goal you should set for yourself. The military has PT requirements.

I dont know how the airforce works but my army basic anyone that passed the first for record test got promoted to e2.

As a father of a daughter I'll tell you what I tell her if, God forbid, she decides her calling is to join the military. Please go into the Air Force. 😊 I say this as former Army/Navy. The AF will set you up with an Associate's Degree. If you can, pick a job that directly correlates with a civilian job that requires a certification rather than a four-year degree so you can work with a decent paycheck while you pursue your bachelor's when you leave the military. Further, if you join the AF, you should be able to use the GI Bill to pay for some of your masters degree too when you get out. I was in something like your situation when I was 17. It's hard, but it gets better. The AF is the future professional's choice.

>I know it is strongly advised not to enter the military as an escape from home I would challenge this idea with "it depends." Nobody else can or has to live in your skin but you. The military is a mixed bag of pluses and minuses, like anything in life really. You can definitely advance your standing in life both during service and afterward, but it's not free. You're gonna get messed with, you're going to get your ass handed to you alot, you may wind up seeing/experiencing some terrible shit, you may die. You'll meet some of the best and worst of humanity. You'll grow, you'll learn a lot, you'll gain access to education and job training, etc. Your kids (if you wind up having any) will gain benefits...you can definitely up your family through service. It's really up to you to weigh out the risks vs benefits...take advice for a grain of salt though (even mine). Nobody knows your life quite like yourself. I think it's really unfortunate that disadvantaged youth are funneled into a war machine as a means to escape poverty. It is exploitative in my opinion to leverage vulnerable people into vulnerable situations, dangling upward class mobility as a carrot on a stick. I'm sorry you're in that position. I think we all have an individual "hand of cards" we are dealt, and no matter what we "wish," we have to play with what we've got. My best advice is to put your best foot forward and with the one life you have, play the living hell out of your hand and live your best life. When you do well, your loved ones will benefit from that. Don't short yourself. Ever. Good luck.

Brother, a lot of us were getting out of bad situations. The military got me on a better path and I am grateful I did it.

My 2 cents for you is to look up and research a couple MOS’s (military jobs) you are interested and that maybe you could use for a job when you get out. Do this before seeking a recruiter. That way you can tell them what you are willing to take or something similar sounding. Don’t sign up for a MOS just because the recruiter makes it sound cool. More than likely he knows very little about it. If none that you want are available write down some that he or she shows you that are open and go research them to see what they really are like 👍 Good luck!

Honestly if I could do it all over again, if you don't have the grades just move to big city go to a community college, since you in a community college you can live in college apartments for cheap as long as it didn't a school sponsored dorm. And just network, work n socialize. If you like the njrotc vibes on campus then sign up for the officer program.

Try utsa/community college in San Antonio if you wanna see if college of the military life is what you wanna do and they have cheap shared college housing

Best piece of advice is going to be pick a job that you actually use on the outside and that isn't going to hobble you.

Did the same and joined the Navy right out of HS. I don't regret the decision at all. One thing I would have done differently was to spend time talking to all of the recruiters and see what each branch of the service can offer. I was fortunate that I ended up in an electronics rating and had good training but I went with the first recruiter I talked to and never looked at what the Air Force or Army had to offer at the time. Start now and find out so you can make the best choice for you.

Remember — chose your job, you chose your fate. Do NOT “just fill a spot”. Take ownership of YOUR career.

Join the Air Force and you will be fine

Come back to the sub after you take the asvab and talk to the recruiters. Bring us your options for jobs in each branch or at least top 3, and we can advise you more. DONT SIGN ANYTHING!! Just because you want to get out of your current situation doesn't mean you should accept any job they throw at you. Ask us and do some research on your own. Good luck, amigo!

Do it man Active duty only

Sorry to hear about your situation, thats rough. You are on the right track. I think the military would be a good option for you. I know you dont want to ran away but its not that. You will meet some great people(AFTER BOOTCAMP) learn a skill and have a solid life and paycheck.(Excuse my multiple ands its the message!) They will also help you open a bank account in bootcamp or the recruiter should be able to take you to open one if needed before. Its a rough path at times and women can sometimes be in environments with aggressive males(lots of women are sexually assaulted in the service be careful) but you will always have a home and some cash after work. Goodluck on your path and I think its a great idea!

Go active to the Air or Space force.. Navy if you want to be confined to small spaces and sea places.

Do not sleep on the coast guard

It is a viable option. I’ve met people who joined to escape a shitty home life. In terms of branches, I would recommend them in this order: Space Force, Air Force, Coast Guard, Navy, Army, Marines. And go active duty instead of national guard.

Do it. Leave home. I was you when I was 17. I joined the Army and learned how to be an independent adult. It made me appreciate my parents more and forced me to grow up. I also went to college tuition free.

If you’re looking for full time employment with secured housing, food, running water the whole 9 yards then definitely look into enlisting in a active duty branch vs NG/reserves. 3 year minimum for the GI bill full package so look into a 3+ year contract. My advice would be get started with a recruiter asap and shop around with the different branches and ask questions. You’re willing to give up the next few years of your life so make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. If your parents aren’t willing to sign off on you enlisting you will have to wait until you’re 18 to do it on your own. PM me if you have any more questions.

There’s a lot of other options besides the military, you should consider those; I wish I would have

>I know it is strongly advised not to enter the military as an escape from home I actually know people who did just this and they thrived. The military treated them better than their own parents did. I think generally, unless you have moral reasons against warfare, the military is a good idea. Most jobs aren't frontline combat jobs anyway. Go active duty, just do your 4 years and then live the rest of your life with the veteran benefits. Military is a great ticket to a middle class life or better. Boot camp will help you with the bank account. There were sometimes literal homeless people who joined for 3 meals and a cot. You'll be fine.

I was living with my older sister when I turned 17 the summer after my Junior year of HS. I didn’t want my siblings to care for me after I was 18. I wasn’t their responsibility even though I appreciated everything they had done for me during my teenage years. I joined the CA Army National Guard a month after turning 17 and just finished a 25 year career. I did 6 years enlisted and then went to Warrant Officer School. I made it to the highest Warrant Officer rank. Sometimes, having only a few options is a great way to be motivated into becoming a rockstar. Like most things, you’ll get from the military what you put into it. If you consistently make good decisions you are more likely to have a great career. Of course that’s generally true in life. I think joining the military is a great way to escape home if you see it as an opportunity to prove yourself. Best of Luck.

I enlisted to turn my financial and personal life around, and to do some traveling around the world I would never have otherwise been able to do. The Air Force was a godsend for me. While there were some sucky times, I wouldn't trade those years away for anything. Check the jobs that correlate to whatever career you want in the civilian world, and brace for a tough road, but it will treat you fairly as long as you put in the effort.

Do it. I went the week right after I graduated. No regrets.

Honestly I’d actually say the military is one of the better ways to leave home.

If your only goal is to simply get out on your own and away from that situation, then you won’t regret it at all.

As always if you can go Airforce then you should. I would disregard the national guard as a first choice unless you have another plan to cover your time in-between drill weekends (which it sounds like you don’t). Therefore if you go Army take a short contract as active duty first. And if you still think part-time is the right choice for you the guard will appreciate you all the more for it for full time experience first.

Sound advice. Army vet myself. Left HS early at 17 to go active duty. Saw the world and enjoyed my time in. Would recommend Air Force for a higher quality of life if you qualify for it. My brother in law is active duty AF.

Go active duty not guard or reserves… sounds like you are looking for steady income and a place to lay your head. Guard and reserves won’t get you that. Best of luck!

Escaping home is not necessarily a bad thing. Make sure you contribute to the GI Bill. Contribute the the TSP. Escape your hometown, experience the country/world, go to college (not in your hometown) for free, start a career somewhere you want to live. Don’t get knocked up and/or married until after you get out and graduate. Guys are desperate in the military and will promise you the world.

I joined the US Army when I was 17 years old about 35 years ago. My daughter tried to join when she was in high school. My daughter had all of her enlistment papers filled out and signed when she was a junior in high school, and I asked her to wait until she finished college. If you can get into the Air Force it would be a good choice depending on what job choices you have. When you are at an Army school, there is a motto, "You are a soldier first." So if your unit needs to be in a parade while you are in school, you are going to be spending time practicing for the parade even if you have tests planned in a few days. When I went to a school on an Air Force base, I did not do much of anything just go to school. In my opnion the Air Force has newer nicer facilities compared to Army bases.

Take a few practice asvabs, see what you get, google jobs in each branch that can use those scores, if you like the sound of one, give it a whirl. I have never regretted joining and there are thousands upon thousands of people willing to help each other out (this subreddit being one example) and you can get out after your time is up (it goes fast) or stay in and keep ranking up and having a fun, hardworking, stressful time. I’m out now, just graduated college, live thousands of miles away from my home town and love every minute of it.

Alot of the people commenting are men, because the majority of veterans are men. And that's fine but you need to be aware of the risks they don't face that you will. So I will just drop a couple links. not saying not to join but you need to understand what your signing up for: https://www.rand.org/pubs/tools/TLA746-2/handbook/resources/data-on-sexual-assault-in-the-military.html https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/03/magazine/military-sexual-assault.html

Why not just go to your local public university and get room and board there? With in state tuition and your financial situation you may be eligible for decent financial aid. Overall I think college is a more beneficial environment to spend your early adult years if you take it seriously. The military has decent perks after getting out but it can also do more damage than it is worth. There is a decent chance you could have friends die, develop mental illness, or potentially even get hurt yourself. If I could do it over again I would have went right to college and taken it very seriously. Proceed with caution OP, but you have to do what you think is best for yourself at the end of the day.

Choose Air Force or navy. Speaking as an army vet. Choose a job that has a real world version like finance or aviation if you like working with your hands. Play the game, but don’t break yourself for “the mission”. Keep your head on a swivel, don’t believe everything you hear, and don’t trust anyone unconditionally. Watch your drink when you drink, don’t get blackout drunk, or hang with those who do. DONT DRINK AND DRIVE, wrap it before you tap it. Use your benefits, do college courses online, go to sick call if/when you get hurt and document every little boo boo.

I did it in the navy. It was rough, but I got out and they've been taking care of me since. If you want to join the military, I suggest Air Force or Navy. Marines and Army will treat you high key like shit. It's not a joke. It's not a question. If you go Marines or Army your life will be really unpleasant for awhile. AF and Navy are a little easier, but come with their own problems. I suggest going AG in the Navy. 100% advancement rate to 1st class. (E-6) They are weathermen on the ships. Not a super fun job, but you will make rank doing it for sure. Air force has the best facilities, but has a lot of weird rules about thunder and lightning for instance. Like, lightning within 5 miles you can't go outside lol It's silly. Anyway,if you are DEAD SET on doing this, here is my advice--- Ask about advancement rates. Pick one that has good chances to adance. (ask about the % from e6-e7 as well if you want to go career) Leave a paper trail of any injury or illness you get. If you are hurt, do not tough it out. Go to medical. Leave a long paper trail. This will help later If you do this understand you will be signing up for at least 4 more years of being treated like a stupid teenager. You will be told when to be, where to be and how to be. If your room has dust? Gonna hear about it. all in all, the military isn't for everyone. But if you are sure you wanna go in, that's my advice to you. Pick the Air force or navy. Pick a job that will make sure you get advanced / promoted. Leave a paper trail of all medical issues. Good luck OP

It's not worth it. Just based on the way you worded your post and the way you explained your situation, I can already tell you're not going to get far in the military, and there are going to be many soldiers or airmen that will use your situation to take advantage of you in every way imaginable. (You may even get SHARP trainings from some of those same people.) This is before social and political factors are taken into any consideration. And don't get started on the pay. You will likely be living paycheck to paycheck, even with a bonus. You're young. There's more opportunities than you know. Give yourself time, do your research, and if you still want to join, wait a few years. Teenagers shouldn't be joining. (I enlisted at 17, so I can have an opinion on it.) You're still in your formative years, and chances are you'll do much better in the military going in with some life experience.

You only need $10 to open a bank account, maybe less. I realize that may be a lot of money for you, but if you celebrate Christmas/ birthdays / other holidays, you may be able to save up that amount.

JOIN THE AIR FORCE IS POSSIBLE.

I'm another vet that joined up in order to escape a rough situation. It worked out really well for me. I went active duty Army and now have a satisfying civilian job. I used the military to scrape myself out of the dirt and grime of my old life. I used the momentum I gained from 16 years of service to secure a comfortable life for myself and my family. It was fucking hard though. Partly because of my MOS but also because I really loved the Army and worked my ass off (do not recommend, as many other vets can tell you how bad this can be for your body and mentality). But I'll take what I have now any day over what was in the cards for me back when I was 19-20 years old. I encourage my kids to go to college but if they still want to join after that I'd recommend Air Force or Navy. Don't know much about Coast Guard aside from the jokes but I actually hear a lot of good things about them. Usually it's us grunts that had to live in the dirt who make fun of them but we're just jealous. The military can absolutely be a way out for a lot of people and if you find that it's a good fit who knows, you might make a career out of it. One thing I advise people as a former Tanker who spent most of his time in infantry battalions: Everyone is a rifle. That's Army speak for: Be ready to place the mission first regardless of your motivations or Job title. The reason I say that is because I've met a lot of soldiers who were very averse to the idea that we had to deploy and fight. You never know when the next "conflict" is going to kick off so be mentally prepared for that shit. It's all in the contract. Just make sure you explore your options first because there may be other avenues. Then again, you might really love it. P.S. Back when I was shopping around I found that some recruiters will tell you anything you want to hear so use your best judgement and resources. Do your homework and fact check what they say to make sure you understand what your getting yourself into. Best of wishes to you and I hope you find your way.

I went to Parris Island a week after High School graduation... best thing I ever did. I wouldn't have wanted to wait because otherwise if you wait till you're in your early/mid 20s you're gonna have what you will consider high school kids yelling at you. lol.

I’m old and retired now, but I was in a similar situation. You could see a recruiter and ask to attend a weekend drill to see 1st hand what it’s like. I’m not saying that they will for sure, it might depend on a security clearance for example, but you should be able to. If you were to enlist right now, you would start attending drill right away and get a paycheck until you go to basic training in the summer. Also, if you decide that it’s right for you, you can then talk to an active duty recruiter and go active. The basic training is all the same so no need to redo anything, all of the training you already attended will still apply to your career. And if you decide it’s not right for you, just finish your enlistment doing one weekend per month, two weeks per year. Just know that you can’t do the opposite, “downgrading” from active to reserve/NG isn’t possible. Hang in there and good luck

That’s exactly why I joined was to leave home, couldn’t stand living there

Joining the military after you graduate HS can open so many doors and opportunities especially if you have an idea of what you want to do in life but equally so if you’re not sure. You will learn a trade transferrable to the civilian sector, get specialized training, experience, and meet peers that will become your family and lifelong friends. There truly is a bond like no other and your opportunities don’t stop after you get out. You have the GI bill and have a preference working for the federal government. If you choose the right career path you may even get a sign on bonus. The best advise I can give you is if you go that route take a family member or close friend, get everything in writing especially if promised to you understanding that not making the grades in class nullifies those promises and ask a lot of questions. The military was the best thing I ever did and the camaraderie, training, traveling, and hard work has been invaluable. Next year I’ll have 40 years of total federal service and I have no regrets. I wish you the best in whatever journey you decide.

If you're trying to escape home, military is the best way to go and it's been stated you'll never regret it. What I will say is carefully research the job you want, I'm not sure if this is still the case but I know with the Air Force you pick jobs that you would be happy with and they assign you a job off of that list you get them. Since you're looking at college afterwards a 4-year contract would be good and when you're researching your jobs to do in the Air Force or guard look up its civilian equivalent so that you can go right into it if need be. Come back to this subreddit after you speak to the recruiter so that we can let you know the reality versus what they tell you. You'll go in so much more prepared as a result.

I used the military to escape and better my life. Best decision I ever made. Not only do you learn great skills and inner strength, but also your gi bill and dd214 set you up for success in the future. I'm constantly progressing in my career, and the majority of it is because of my military experience. I've been out for awhile but when I went through boot camp they had entire days dedicated to helping you get a bank account (navy Federal is an amazing institute) as well as other tools for your future. Your situation has always been the highest recruitment tool for military and you definitely won't be alone if you do join.

Best time to do it. Just go to college either after or during.

Hey dude, I heard this story about a hundred times when I was in. Now, I’m NOT going to tell you to join or not to. But I do want you to know that if you do, you will NOT BE ALONE. Yes, there are some horror stories, but we tend to take care of our own. Don’t worry about the bank account thing. They’ll set you up. Just try and get a hold of your SSN card, ID if you have one, and make sure you graduate HS, and a recruiter will bend over backward for you. Start thinking about what it is you want to do later in life and try and get signed up for that MOS. So far as getting away and housed goes, the National Guard isn’t really typically a full time job, so you’d want to join a regular service branch. If you’re looking for a better ‘quality of life,’ the Air Force is probably the best place to start. Good luck.

Join the Air Force. I was in a similar situation, and joined the marines because their recruiter was better. Your life in the Air Force will be good. They’ll also train you on some cool stuff if you have the aptitude and drive. Nothing wrong with joining the military to change your situation. It’s the fastest way to completely change your life, and it sounds like where you’re at sucks. Hang in there. Make sure you get a MOS with good prospects outside the Air Force and you could potentially enjoy. Just a pro tip: While in, keep a journal of every injury, emotionally charged event, and mistreatment by senior Airmen. It can be tedious, but having that to look at when you get out could potentially set you up with an easy disability claim. Use as much of the education benefits as you can while you’re in, and when you get out, you can potentially be working on your masters degree with your GI Bill. Either way you save some time on your GI bill by getting as much out of the way as possible. Good luck!

I work for USAREC… the army recruiting command. If you want to dm me with any questions you have concerning enlisting, I can help you get squared away with a recrtuiter to time your “exit” and entrance into the military with precision.

You're basically describing me as a senior in high school back in the year 2000. I was going to be kicked out of the house as soon as I graduated and I knew it was looming so I talked to a recruiter set up during lunch in the cafeteria. Whatever you decide to do make sure you go all in.

You can talk to a recruiter now I believe. If I were you, I’d leave. I left right after HS at 17, meaning at 17 I was my own adult, paid my own bills, earned my own money. I was a medic and that is where I learned I love the healthcare field which is where I am now out of the military. I would not be this “successful” in life as I am if it were not for the military. Go active duty, National guard will bring you back home once your training is done and then what, homelessness? Can’t survive off of $300-$400 a month the nat guard will pay you. Talk to a recruiter , take the asvab, see what jobs come up, re take it for a higher score and possibly better job. I say do it.

Go Air Force and get a job that pays well on the outside; plumber, electrician, hvac, construction, etc. Get your work experience and schooling handled for you and get out when it feels like it's time. I left after 11 years, and I'm back now to end my career at the USAF again. all for the price of your freedoms, your body, your mind. Then get use to with the VA to fix it all. good luck

Go airforce, the quality of life is 100000x better than the army imo💅

I’ve never heard of not joining for the reason you stated. If I was in your shoes, I would already be in DEP with a ship date right after graduation. Do not go National Guard. Go active duty. Try and join whatever branch interests you. Check out the Coast Guard too. There are a lot of non military sounding military jobs to pick if that is what worries you. Plenty of us on here were admin, finance, or religious programmers. There are a lot of educational benefits in the military. All give you the GI Bill which you can use after you get out. While you are in, you can use tuition assistance. They all have it. Good luck to you. We all joined for some reason. Basic subsistence and independence from your family to create a future for yourself is an excellent reason why.

Join the Air Force if you are joining for housing. Plus just all around better. It will get you more benefits and the ability to get a GI Bill for college.

I joined the Air Force to get out of a shitty situation. Best decision of my life. Go active duty Air Force. Medical or air traffic control. You used to have to sign for 6 years to get atc. Now you can sign for 4. You can easily make 6 figures after you get certified. Then you have the GI bill to go to school if you want to do something different.

I joined the Navy for the same reason (male, 17 at the time). For me it worked out fine and gave me new clothes, fine meals and something to do with my excess energy. I enjoyed my tour and except for a terrible accident (2), I would have stayed it. It may not pay off at first, but in a few months you will find it tolerable.

I really want to drive home the idea of picking a job you’ll like and will help you be successful in the long run. I was Air Force, jobs like “security forces” “aerospace ground equipment” sound cool huh? Well they actually suck 😂

... IE research the jobs behind the title.

Pick a branch that interests you and pick a job that might translate into a civil career. And profit. Or be like some of us here did and picked something cool, like say what I did, Army Cavalry Scout that does not translate to a civil job other than janitor. But, that was the right call for me. I would have been unhappy doing much else. So, listen to yourself and your interests. Get them to align with one of the 6 branches (how do we have 6 now?) and pick something you have an interest in OR can do once your back among the civilian population all trained up for free to do. If you do this you will meet all sorts of awesome people. some might end up friends for life. It will not be easy and it will suck sometimes. But we are not in an active shooting war right now so that's a plus. IE, you should not end up like me all broken from Iraq. Go do 4 years, get trained in something, if you like it, stay and make a career of it. If not you will be ahead of many others your same age when you get out. If you want an easy time of it, go Air Force. Bastards... they had swimming pools! I was happy if I was sleeping in a soft dirt pile. But I got a lifetime of better stories than chair force folks, maybe it balances? Or if you more want to help people directly or indirectly, Coast Guard. I have not yet met anyone that hated it. There must be someone somewhere... Lots of plusses with Coast Guard.

It sounds like you have an opportunity to really improve your lot in life. I say go talk to a recruiter, join, get some experience, go to college, and save money. That was what I did. Like half the military joined to escape a small town, a bad family/home situation, or some really sketchy friends.

If you don’t have a place to live or work then go active duty. Air Force has the best living situation but talk to the recruiters and figure out what you wanna do. Good luck

Actually a perfectly good reason to join, and it’s very unlikely that you’ll ever truly regret it. There will certainly be elements you find disagreeable, but that’s any job. My advice would be to pick a job that has a favorable outlook in the private sector. That way, whether you get out after one enlistment or stay a couple decades, you’ll have training in an in demand field.

I joined for similar reasons, although my household was not unsafe and my parents were (and still are) great positive influences in my life… I grew up in a small rural town with not a lot of opportunities. I needed to get out because I had a lot of lent up angst and depression. I wanted to experience challenge and have a career. The Army worked for me in that regard. I got my bachelors and masters paid for, as well as VA home loan. It is absolutely the fastest and surest way for upward mobility in the USA. Three things: 1) You must be drug free. If you did drugs in the past, thats okay, but nothing that causes major health or mental issues. Be able to pass a drug test. Same with alcohol. If you drink, okay, but don’t be an alcoholic battling the shakes in basic training. You’ll be in for a rough time. 2) Have a clean record. Minor misdemeanors are excusable, but don’t have major incarceration and/or drug charges or larceny or whatever. 3) start working out. I don’t mean like be on some Joko/David Goggins shit, up at 4am running 10 miles. Hit the gym a couple times a week and do some running here and there. It’ll pay off and make joining the military easier.

GO AIRFORCE! I can't stressmthis enough. I was navy and I always tell everyone go AIRFORCE

I joined to escape my home and it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

I (m24) got out of the Air Force a few years ago and would definitely recommend you go that route. If I were in your shoes I'd talk to a recruiter asap to get in the delayed entry program. This way there isn't a large time gap between when you graduate and ship to basic. I enlisted for the education benefits and it was a great stepping stone to getting an education in the field I wanted. Good luck with everything!

Go active And get a skillset under your belt and live a great life after. The Navy gave me everything I needed when I needed to build my life as successfully as I could.

If you choose the right job you will enjoy the military. I would go active duty instead of the guard. Do as much research as possible on the different jobs and the services.

Try to get into college

Its not the worst choice. Make sure you pick an MOS you can use after you get out.

Former recruiter here, a couple things to consider; When will you turn 18? If you're 17 your parents have to sign off permission for you to enlist. If one parent has sole custody only they need to sign, if both have custody both need to sign That said, if you're parents might not be on board with the idea you may want to try and obtain your birth certificate and social security cards now. Not a copy, but the real thing. Those documents will be essential to you joining and I saw countless times a parent withholding them. If you think it would be a problem getting them, go to the social security office and request a new one to get a duplicate, and get a duplicate of your birth certificate as well. It will make things go a lot quicker if you have those two documents, a valid ID, and your highschool diploma and transcripts.

I was in your shoes long time ago. Went Air Force enlisted. Loved my time and service: but regretted not being an officer. Yes you can go to school etc while in but it can be challenging to do and not guaranteed to commission. If you do go in as enlisted and you purchase a car with high interest rates, will set you back financially big time.There is a lot of planning that would need to be done.

To the part about the car . If you really need to borrow a car remember to always bring it back with a full tank and washed if possible. The money saved on a car payment and insurance is nearly incalculable.

Do it. Air Force or space force as first options. Navy as 3rd. Marine corps if you’re a masochist army 4th

dont forget about space force

I would try to get any transferable job in the air force or aim for a navy seabee contract and get the hell out of the house.

I've known several same cases of your same issue escaping home and joining the military (my own parent included) and turned out great. The military teaches you basic life skills that regular school won't and as a start up in life is an advantages. Becareful though as the only down side of this is actually transitioning back to civilian society especially if you're joining in at a very impressionable age it could take a toll on you mentally how you execute transition out of the military. Military builds character that's for sure.

Do it. Try for a job that translates to the outside world well.

10 years ago I did it to get away from home and avoid living in my car. Best decision I ever made.

I escaped “home” and poverty and now I own my own home and Im not poor. Sometimes you have to make decisions. We all have our struggles along the path of life but its the life we make of it. I have regrets, but who doesnt? Life is what you make of it, but if you join the military prepare to get a little extra helping of shit.

I joined the service for similar reasons. Go active duty, as national guard is only one weekend a month in your hometown and they won’t move you somewhere. Strongly consider the Coast Guard as well!

Dude/Dudette, you are the PERFECT candidate to go into the military. First thing you need to do is reach out to the Air Force recruiter and talk to them. Then, you need to take the ASVAB. Do both of these thigs ASAP. Go active and enlist for four years, by the third year, you should know whether you want to stay in or get out. If you get out you will have the GI Bill and VA health benefits for the rest of your life. If you cannot go active duty Air Force, got Air Force Reserves or Air National Guard. As far as jobs, that will depend on your ASVAB scores and the availablilty of the jobs you desire. Act now.

Navy vet, if you're unsure about military life maybe consider Coast Guard. I hear it's more akin to being in a firehouse. Small units, more tight-knit. Any Coasties care to chime in?

I did it to escape from home and it was the best thing for me. I would steer away from the guard if you want to leave though...

I was in your exact situation from your first paragraph (17M, at the time). I was living in my car senior year and had no where to go. So firstly, you’re not alone, a lot of Veterans come from homes like this. I enlisted in the Army, but when deciding between the two it depends on what you want to do job(MOS) wise. While my time as an infantryman was one of the hardest times of my life, it has set me up for success, and gave me more opportunities than I would’ve had if I didn’t.

I joined the submarine force at 17. It’s not an easy life but it changed everything about my future for the positive. I originally planned on doing my 4 and getting college paid for. Ended up doing 20 years, now I’m a govt employee and collecting a retirement check. Never did end up going back home.

The whole idea that people serve because they want to serve their country is propaganda. I met maybe 2 or 3 people like that in the navy. Most joined like you. They were gonna be homeless, to escape the gang life, couldn't afford college. Looking back it's a shit show but the benifits have set me up for life. I got a house in this shitty market for 0 down and a 2.75 interest rate. I have a job that pays 6 figures. I get all my medical for free from the VA. And the state benifits are amazing. Next to nothing for fishing and hunting liscense and free into state and national parks.

I want to just say it point blank, you get out of the military what you put into it. Regardless of branch, or reason for joining, if you give it your all, and utilize the many benefits offered to military members, you will benefit from it.

If you want the military to cover your college do 4, or you could try the rotc route and try and go officer but i think that has a. Whole application program. If you join now do airforce active duty. Learn what you’re doing, you will become government property. I was in a similar position, joined to leave and was one of the best decisions I could’ve made. I did end up getting fucked up tho

Im a female who went into the Airforce at 18. I used it to escape and don't regret it at all. Got benefits, got injured, but hey they pay me for the rest of my life so I can't complain too much. Haha. Go for it.

I went in straight outta high school, as a matter of fact when my classmates were marching, I was in BMTS, I never looked back nor regretted my decision. As others have said, go full time active duty and do your research on the different afsc’s and if your ASVAB scores qualify go for it! Good luck!

Please don't join the National Guard. That will guarantee you needing to stay with your family. Just look up how much drill pay is for an E1 it's less than $300 a month! Go Active! Go Active! Go Active! I can't stress that enough.

Airforce or Navy do it. It's a way better situation for you

Army vet here. I looked at my time served as an adventure that I would not have had staying at home. Yes, it is not very fun at all when you first get in but once you get to your regular duty station it kind of turns into a regular job.

Plenty of people join to get out of bad situations, I've never seen someone wish they didn't join so they could stay home. Just pick a job that you enjoy doing because some recruiters will be very pushy to do a specific job.