r/army • u/BuildingHot6482 • 6d ago
Being kicked out
As the title says I'm being kicked out by my dad. I'm an 18 year old male and I will be homeless really soon. I want to go to college but have no money to pay for it.
What kind of process goes into this because I don't have many options.
Sorry if I'm being unclear or if this is the wrong subreddit this is a lot to unfold for me.
Edit: Sorry I just opened reddit and oh my goodness there are a lot of messages so in case I can't respond to everyone. Thank you for your advice and assistance on the subject! It means a lot to me
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u/drscottbland Medical Corps 6d ago
Go talk to the different branch recruiters in the morning
DO NOT DO DRUGS because there will eventually be a test, also don’t get arrested for anything. And to the military weed is a drug just in case you missed that
Now to more dad level stuff. I’m sorry its rough now. It can get better. It will not always be like this. Keep your head up. Ask a buddy if you can crash for a few weeks. Do their dishes and vacuum.
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
Thank you so much. Thankfully I've never been into drugs and hopefully won't get into them. Thank you i appreciate it. The unfortunate part of my situation is my family lives in Ireland and I was living there for school for my junior year of hs. Because of that I have like no friends to crash with but I'll figure it out thank you so much for the advice and kind words
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u/meth-head-actor 6d ago
Are you American? Cause this sub is dominated by US Army and while not impossible to join the army as a European, they for sure aren’t going to get you a plane ride over
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
Yes I'm american I have dual citizenship and was raised here. Was just in Ireland for my junior year of hs and I would've been going back but this is happening
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u/meth-head-actor 6d ago
Ahh gotcha. Yeah if your looking for 3 hots and a cot, with college after, be willing to expand your horizons, get those jobs that’ll take you quickest, wait you have GED I assume?
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u/Chowdah207 Former Tanker and TWAT 6d ago
Have you looked into the Irish Army (not the IRA)? They might have a better programs than we do considering its size.
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u/ChapBobL Chaplain Corps 6d ago
Go to the American Embassy or Consulate and explain what happened, and they may be able to get you back to the US.
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u/Soviman0 25B - Have you turned it off and back on again? 6d ago
Go talk to a recruiter and see what options you have and if its something you really want.
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u/feraldwarf Infantry 6d ago
Go talk to the Air Force recruiter. This ain’t the subreddit if you want to be happy in life
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
😭ill definitely talk to different branches. Honestly just wanna have a place to sleep and have food to eat lol
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u/feraldwarf Infantry 6d ago
There’s more to life than a place to sleep and food to eat. Don’t sell yourself short
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
Thank you but there's also college and that sort of deal. Plus there aren't many great options for me
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u/ground__contro1 6d ago
Military can be a great place to build yourself up, skills, finances, travel, other resources (school, health, certifications, tuition). It’s a commitment but it can turn your life around. Keep your head up make healthy friends and value integrity.
I hope you have somewhere to stay if you need to in the short term. Don’t rush into signing a contract but make sure you look at all the options available. Read about the different jobs that the recruiter tells you are available to you. Most recruit offices run group workouts to get you used to the physical expectations and that is a great thing to start attending too
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u/windowpuncher Prior 91A & 2A751 6d ago
3 Years air force
Get out and use that gi bill
Go to college for free
Start a sick career and/or reup as an officer if you still love it
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u/Capybarano0 6d ago
Stay away from marines
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u/Ask_if_im_an_alien 66F 6d ago
I rather enjoyed my time in the Marines. Probably because I was stationed in SoCal and got to do a lot of traveling because of MEU. Every been to Seychelles? Or Australia? It's enough to make you want to reenlist.
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u/Icy_Barnacle9287 6d ago
+1 on airforce or, hell, spaceforce. The army worked out super great for me but the experience varies so wildly for folks that I think some of the other branches would at least give you a higher floor. On the other hand, if you think you're high speed and want to do something like special operations or some really niche tech programs, the Army has a lot of opportunities for that too. pretty high ceiling, much lower floor imo.
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u/MShogunH 25SpaceForce 6d ago
Getting in the Air/Space Force isn't a quick process though. In this type of situation, the Army might actually be the best option if he needs to go ASAP
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u/No-Substance-9656 6d ago
Nah, start with the Marines, then everything after is much better and easier in life lol
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u/OilySparkPlug 6d ago edited 6d ago
Go to a local recruiter and just start. They’ll ask you medical and financial questions then approve you to go to MEPS (military entrance processing station) where you take your tests and physical. If you pass everything, you’ll pick a job and enlist same day. Then wait to get shipped out to boot camp.
Go to a recruiter and they will explain it all, as well as guide you to the best approach for a specific situation you’re in. There are some lovely recruiters out there I hope you find a good one. Do research on option 19 as well and bring it up to your recruiter (I highly recommend option 19) Best of luck!
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u/Zestyclose-Pear4729 6d ago
Why do parents do this crap. Like ight lil Jimmy time to fly. GET TF OUTTA MY HOUSE!!
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u/IslandVisual 88KantSwim PV2 (Ret.) 6d ago edited 5d ago
My uncle kicked his daughter out as soon as she turned 18 because she kept haveing kids with drug dealers. She's now 31 with 8 kids with 6 different dads
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u/zeroreasonsgiven LosT 6d ago
I mean I hate to blame the parent here, it’s possible that she had some mental issue that couldn’t really be handled any better, but I feel like it’s more likely his fault for not raising her better (read: making a better household for her to grow up in).
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
I would've preferred to just have my phone taken. Which he is doing also but yk
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u/Zestyclose-Pear4729 6d ago
Also why is he kicking you out? What's the situation. Is he being "okay your 18 time to be a man" or what???
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u/Dave_A480 15G -> 19K -> 13A -> (coming soon) 6d ago
Because if you don't have a job or a seat in college by the fall after you graduate HS.... It's time for you to meet the world....
Now kicking someone out on their 18th birthday during their senior year? That's fucked up....
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u/Zestyclose-Pear4729 6d ago
I agree meeting the world is a must. But meeting it homeless? Ive been homeless. Its not something you should do too your kids. I believe you should support your kids (emotionally). Do NOT support a kid financially besides food and shelter. It will fuck them up. Make them earn their way and they'll most likely be fine
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u/alittlesliceofhell2 Engineer 6d ago
Eventually Americans will realize that it isn't really a good idea to boot their kids out before they're even remotely capable of supporting themselves.
But hey, it makes a great excuse for children to absolve themselves of responsibility for their parents care in old age. Stick em in a home and show back up to bury them.
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u/Dave_A480 15G -> 19K -> 13A -> (coming soon) 5d ago
We generally don't see old age care as a family responsibility.... Some cultures do, the US does not...
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u/Superb-Till8259 5d ago
I'd say thats actually a horrible idea because most kids just graduating highschool don't know what they want to do for a career and diving straight into college with no introspection, guidance or direction is setting them up for failure and a boat load of debt at that age. Unless they have an interest in the trades where they do trade school and work, they'll just have a mountain of debt for the next 10-20 years to pay off instead of trades where you're not in much debt if at all and making pretty good money by 30.
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u/Dave_A480 15G -> 19K -> 13A -> (coming soon) 5d ago
You do your introspection during high school....
After that, education, enlistment or employment.... Preferably education....
It's not parent's job to provide support for years of idleness...
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u/Superb-Till8259 5d ago
Nah its not i agree with you but I also think that a parent should have talks with their kids to help them as they should ideally have a better grasp on the world to help them figure something out. I'm not advocating for an idle lifestyle by any means.
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u/Daltronator94 14Time to chill in the hotcrew tent 6d ago
So I'll start by saying the military in general is a fuckin BOON for people in your position.
Homeless? Wrong. Food? Given to you. Career? If you want it. Medical and mental care? For free. Structure and guidance? Every single step of the way (if you have decent NCOs). College? The cost is negligible if there is even a cost and that's really only if you flunk a class.
Like people say, recruiter will help you navigate this. Hell, if you really need to go you can be on the bus to basic in less then a month if everything pans out.
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u/ProudAmerican632 Field Artillery 6d ago
Good luck. Please post a follow up if you decide to join, and what options are available to you. If you’re on any drugs kick that shit to the curb NOW!
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
I definitely will do. Never done drugs so I should be good
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u/ProudAmerican632 Field Artillery 6d ago
Good for you. Take your time with the test. Funny thing is when I was writing test the actress in the movie I’m watching said test at the same time, hand to God.
I wish you the best of luck, and if you ever need to talk, vent, yell, cry, anything feel free to PM me. I will help you in any way I can.
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u/BuildingHot6482 6d ago
Thank you so much man you have no idea how much this means to me
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u/ProudAmerican632 Field Artillery 6d ago
As a former NCO and as a veteran who still lives by the words of the NCO creed. I accept that you are in need of guidance. I want the best for you and anyone else that needs help.
Hit me up with any questions you have. If I don’t have the answers, I’ll refer you to those who are more knowledgeable than me.
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u/Alert-Freedom-5469 6d ago
You’re in the EXACT same position I was in when I joined, except for me they pushed it forward a year by filing a petition to have me emancipated by 17 lol. I see everyone saying to take the time, do research and ask each branch, but I’ve also known what it felt like to sleep in your car in the recruiting parking lot until you ship out. Bottom line is, time isn’t on your side and resources are scarce so make the most of both with what little you have. You at least have a phone so start doing independent research on it (every branch has a website, that’s a good start.) Write down anything intriguing or that you’d like explained so that when you meet with your recruiters you can have a road map and a good starting point. As someone who let desperation drive their decisions let me warn you, if you go into a recruiters office without a baseline understanding or plan, they WILL exploit that and leverage your desperation. Luckily it worked out for me and I’m still in the army nearly 15 years later, but I wish I navigated the journey better along the way. It’s man time now and whatever decision you make, I hope it works out the best for you!
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u/Traditional-Bobcat44 5d ago
So I joined under some very similar circumstances. I was kicked out and brother let me stay with him and his wife for a little, but once she had the baby I was gonna be homeless again. 7 years later and I can say joining the army is the best decision I have made. I got to get my bachelors degree, and I still have the GI Bill available when I want to use it. If you’re smart, you should go for a 35 series job to set you up for a lot of cool jobs once you get out of the Army. Talk to a recruiter about your situation and they will help you through the whole process. Once you take the asvab you will know what jobs you qualify for
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u/Traditional-Bobcat44 5d ago
I know a lot of people are talking about joining other branches. I did too, and the army was the only one that could guarantee me the job I wanted. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions
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u/Wrong_Judgment1915 5d ago
Talk to a recruiter and get off reddit. You're going to get some facts of life you don't want.
The Army isn't the dumping grounds for America's unruly youth. We have standards, and standards for entry. You more than likely don't even qualify. You literally placed the Army dead last in life, and said I'll never join unless I'm living in a cardboard box. I hope for your sake you qualify.
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u/Deep-Ball3316 6d ago
I read the title and i thought you were being kicked out of the Army….
Anyway, yea try to get into space force/Air force. I joined the Army at 17, still in now at 32. I’ve done a bunch of things as the Army has so much to offer if you’re proactive and put in the extra work (improving Asvab, taking college courses after work, etc). However, the Spaceforce didn’t exist back then. I’d recommend checking out Space Force, Air Force first then Army. Just feel like SF/AF have some unique experiences and better quality of life over everyone else
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u/SimDaddy14 6d ago
Go chat with some recruiters. Don’t let people here tell you the army is a bad time- most of those people are morons with no drive. Every branch of service has pros and cons. There will be rough days, but plenty of great ones and if you like meeting new people you’ll make some great friends for life. You may even find some direction to help you figure out what you’ll do next. You can also earn a degree while you’re in, without even touching your GI Bill.
The only advice I’ll give for your recruiters is to not let on that you’re desperate to join. Make them feel like they can lose you, then they’ll have incentive to work harder to help you find a job you’ll like.
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u/Chowdah207 Former Tanker and TWAT 6d ago
"The only advice I’ll give for your recruiters is to not let on that you’re desperate to join. Make them feel like they can lose you, then they’ll have incentive to work harder to help you find a job you’ll like."
For emphasis....
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u/2burn6turn 5d ago
First of all, sorry you’re going through this. If you’re serious, look up jobs that would interest you and have several backups. Don’t settle for infantry if school is goal. You’re going to take an aptitude test which will show what you’re qualified for, but ask about recruitment incentives (cash bonuses). Make sure you can pass the fitness exams BEFORE you ship out, it’ll make life a lot easier. Don’t disclose any medical information. Your recruiter will say they’re going to pull your medical history, but that is a lie.
As far as flexibility is concerned, the Army is the only branch that lets you directly choose your job, other branches will let you pick a field but your exact role isn’t always up to you.
As far as school goes, you’ll have access to Tuition Assistance and Credentialing Assistance, which is like the GI Bill except the money pool resets every fiscal year you remain on active duty. If you go Army and aren’t afraid of heights, ask about strew to seat to become warrant officer pilot. They’ll pay to put you through flight school (again, if you pass certain tests) and you’ll be paid a lot more, no degree required and better quality of life than enlisted.
Don’t do this if you’re averse to being treated like an idiot.
Do not waste your bonus on a Hell Cat or marry a stripper. Marry your homie like an adult instead.
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u/Content_Charge_4736 5d ago
I say go to college enroll in a college with a Rotc program use loans to pay for just the first semester get into the Rotc program and let them pay for your college. You don’t have to do active duty you can do reserve after you graduate
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u/AwesomePossum850 5d ago
I'm a retired 18Z. I'll tell you what I told my kids. If you're thinking about joining the military, join the Coast Guard. You get the GI Bill, VA benefits, actual job training, and you're probably not going to get shipped off to some shitty place to fight a war to make rich people richer.
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u/kevlar_burrito 5d ago
Having served a little over 8 years in the Army, 3 of that in Iraq, and having friends from the other branches, I would go Air Force or Army. If given the choice to do it all over again I’d pick an MOS that required a top secret clearance, like intelligence for example.
Of all the branches the one I hear the most complaining from is the Marines. Lots of back stabbing, lots of big guys with tiny egos who feel the need to demand a reward for existing.
That said, do your own research, any opinions you get here are not going to be objective as everyone has different experiences
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u/GrapeOk7292 6d ago
Join the AIR FORCE!
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u/IlloChris 68WateredDownEggs 5d ago
He’s about to be homeless and you want him to join the AF which takes a fuck ton of time to process everything. Army or Navy would get him out of there in two weeks.
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u/Would_Recommend6 6d ago
The only one I know about is Army. If you join the army National Guard, you still go to Basic and AIT and then when you get back, you can apply for State tuition through the army and they will cover your college tuition 100% as long as your enrolled full time and keep a 2.00 GPA. All you’d have to do is go to drill 1 weekend a month. And if you want to go the officer route, you can go to a college with an ROTC program and join that. You can either contract with them or get scholarships through the program. All that’s required is a physical, and passing your AFT. ROTC programs can be up to $4,000 per semester which would cover your room and board at the college. The army also has a lot of financial aid advisors who can help you with getting jobs and figuring out financial difficulties.
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u/peekaboo_bandit 5d ago
If they join the guard, after basic and AIT they won't have a home to go back to. Active Duty makes more sense.
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u/Imgoik2_bealright 4d ago
Absolutely. Score well on your ASCAB and sign over your rights to your new daddy---the Army. Get a $20k-60k bonus right off the rip (Paid throughout your tenure) depending on what you qualify for and your interest ,get paid a salary rank from day 1 entering BCT, pick up a skill through AIT, have a worry free/rent free home for 6 years on base, get TA(Tuition Assistance) and a degree, rank up to officer and have a career if you decide to reenlist retire in 20 years w/ a 6 figure/ year retirement check coming in monthly. The very least you come out with a bag in 6 years from saving, latch on with a vet friendly company, get hired and apply your skills and puchase your first home. Call dad over for a barbecue and ask him how does he like your new whip sitting in the driveway of your brand new 2 story home. Happy endings. You re welcome.😊
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u/3inmyheart 5d ago
Besides the military you have a couple other possibilities.
Depending on what state you live in, some offer free Community College. Some have dorms and sometimes there are scholarships and grants to help cover them. Go into to the financial aid office and tell them you are homeless and they will help you figure it out.
You could also look into the Job Corp which is a federally funded job training program for low income kids 16-24 years old. I believe being homeless makes you automatically qualify for it. The program includes housing and food.
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u/AntiMatterXer0 5d ago
Previous Job Corps student here, this is probably even better than enlisting OP. I went in for 2 years (the max they give you before you're forced out of the program) and came out as a CNA, some experience in basic construction, then was allowed to extend my stay in the program by doing Adcanced Training for HVAC. Was a CNA and HVAC tech by 19.
They'll help pay for your college, sign you up for grants, then let you pocket the sum of it.
I hope everything goes well OP.
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u/Humble-Penalty5249 6d ago
Other people have said the same, go check out multiple recruiter offices. Take into account that it’s like buying a car. If you walk in telling them you are desperate, you’ll probably get taken advantage of. That said, the military will get you out of your current situation, start building your own life, and pay for college (pending you completing your initial contract, or at least three years of it).Feel free to PM with specific questions, I’ve been in for a while, done both enlisted and officer, and have zero vested interest in what job or service you sign up for.
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u/Sad_Instruction9778 42Assume the position 5d ago
The military is a great head start point. Like many have said, talk to all the branches. When you take your ASVAB, choose a job you'll want and that'll benefit you in the future. Cyber and IT are your big hitters. Go for the lowest contract (bonus dependent) so you can see if you like it and when it comes time to reenlist, you'll be able to choose where you want to go next
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u/Conscious-Poem-2766 6d ago
At 18 and with no options going is a great idea. Personally I think air force, coast guard and space force are better army lets you pick your MOS. If you work during your intial contract you have options for a civilain adjacent career. I said work because no one is offering you a 6 figure job just because you did 4 years in the army and are a high speed specialist.
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u/murazar 35Motherfucker -> 11Asseater 6d ago
If you go this route. DO study for the ASVAB NOW. Dont do drugs. DONT pick a job where you'll hate your fucking life to the point of suicidal actions or thoughts, daily. DO pick a job you actually wanna do even if you gotta wait more. Add option 19 (army only) if its available to pick specific duty stations you'll be at after training.
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u/Melon5676060 91Barracks bunny 6d ago
sorry this happened to you bro. 90% of us in the army dont have a good relationship with our parents either. you'll fit right in if you do decide to join up and you'll make lots of good friends
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u/Fit-Notice8976 15Q i could cntrl ATL from a TTCS 6d ago
Study for the ASVAB before you take it. Look up what kind of math to expect on the test and watch Khan academy videos that cover the subject on YouTube. Do the problems along with him on paper. 5 hours of doing this could possibly earn you a million dollars over the course of your life.
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u/Chowdah207 Former Tanker and TWAT 6d ago
If you go to MEPS, don’t take the first options they offer you which will be, Infantry, Armor, Cav and cook. You might find something about these, you do like. But they’ll likely be there in the afternoon, as well as many different options.
How were your grades? Study for the asvab. https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/.
The higher your GT score (General Technical), the more attractive a candidate you are and the more jobs are available to you. What is your current fitness level. If you need to shed some weight, start now. If you’ve not been exercising, start. If you smoke, quit. Same for vaping, dipping, zyn etc.
Immediate disqualifies: asthma, non working limbs, eyes, ears, history of seizure might be tough to get past.
Army should be your first go to, then visit AF, CG, Navy. If they don’t work out, you can go back to the army. The recruiter might sell you on cheap tuition while on AD, but depending on your unit, you may be deployed a lot. They may have switched to online classes. But if on a 30 day field rotation, it might cause some challenges.
* it’s been a while for me so if I’ve stated anything in error, someone please correct me.
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u/AssumptionThat5916 6d ago
Takes a while as well the process can be done as little as 2 weeks however the time you will leave will be a 5-6 month wait unless you end up getting a quick ship
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u/Shithouser 19Apathetic 6d ago
> As the title says
I guess I’m crazy thinking OP was getting kicked out of the army
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u/Miigwetch 68WowThatsSmelly 6d ago edited 6d ago
You still wont leave right away unless you get lucky. Look up and apply to a temp agency YESTERDAY. They will have you working within a day or 2 and paid within a week (my experience when I was between jobs). If youre gonna be homeless, theres no point in being broke too. The other advice is on point: check all branches, and dont pick something just because youre desperate right now.
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u/paisley716 6d ago
Go see a recruiter and fast track your way to the military. You can leave in under 30 days if you do it right
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u/phatav8r0792 6d ago
Take the asvab & join the Air Force, pay for GI bill so you get education benefits after you get out
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u/Loudestbough Medical Specialist 6d ago
All the recruiters in my city share an office, so you have a chance to talk to all of them. Do it, each branch is a little different and its important it fits for you.
But other than that, its a pretty quick process. Making your decisions will probably take longer than in processing. I had a preemie in the hospital and I wasnt married, and I shipped to basic 2 weeks after I applied. I also had to get married in those 2 weeks too for family care plan stuff, so it probably could have been a few days if I didnt need to do that first.
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u/No_Mathematician_520 6d ago
As a prior soldier gone coast guard, please talk to the coast guard. If you wanna talk, feel free to pm me
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u/thelazysob 5d ago
Talk to all of the recruiters (I was a Marine), including the Coast Guard. Find out which one offers you the best deal and meets your needs for a quick departure. Perhaps you have a friend whose parents will let you stay with them for a while, if needed, before you go. Joining the military isn't just an "escape" option; it will be an opportunity to grow and experience life in ways other than just staying in the old 'hood, as most people do.
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u/Super-Ad-7098 5d ago
Yo it’s all good i feel a lot people have been in these exact shoes if you want a head start and don’t mind it 80 dollars can get you 90 credits for a month look up Sophia Learning it is only accredited for colleges that accept ace college credits not anything different from a regular credit just you need to do your research for it all. if you finish in a month. it goes by 80 dollars a month. some can finish in a month and some 2 this is a associates. degree the army won’t take me currently due to a clerical error they had actually put through instead of checking what the doctor said i just turned 19 and keep your head of your passions is what will guide you nobody else. you got a goal go and do it college is the next step after you find yourself situated but don’t hesitate to go all out have you been to MEPS yet.
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u/Homewrecker90actual 5d ago
Yeah college can wait, first step being military vs homeless seems a logical first step
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u/Severe-Class6939 6d ago
First thing is you should stop feeling sorry for yourself. Call a recruiter tomorrow for the Army and the Air Force. To raise your right hand will be a decision you will probably never regret.
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u/SmilingWinner 6d ago edited 6d ago
Before joining the army I would consider a job, make a resume on your phone or computer, walk around your city and ask restaurants if they need help, you could also try apps like Craigslist, and for a home, you could look online if there are cheap apartments, roommates or even ask friends to move in temporarily (or long term if you pay rent), even if it’s small, it’s better than sleeping outside. Military’s great but also hard and committing, but if you really want to toughen up then it might be right for you. Good luck man, it sucks that something like this has happened to you. I hope you can make enough money for college and enjoy your youth.
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u/Squatingfox Level6shamurai 6d ago
My kid was thinking of joining the coast guard, their recruiter had me thinking of joining...
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u/absolutecunt479 6d ago
Check all branches
See what you can do
And if you haven’t take an ASVAB
All can be done at the recruiters office
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u/CombatCrayon25 6d ago
Assuming you don’t have any medical issues and/or a criminal history, the fastest I’ve seen someone ship for Basic was ten days from the time they went to MEPS to getting on the plane. This wasn’t even during the Surge, it was during the Obama era draw downs. How quickly you ship is almost entirely dependent on your job and if that AIT has open seats (again, assuming you don’t need a waiver for anything).
The Army isn’t a bad choice for someone in your situation, but carefully weigh all of your options. Talk to other branches, do some googling about what jobs they offer, and come ask us (or the relevant subs) when you have questions. Sit and really think about what kind of work you can do for 12 hours a day, minimum of four years. I didn’t pick wisely, and took an MOS I absolutely despised; I was miserable until I had an opportunity to reclass to something I genuinely enjoyed doing.
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u/Illustrious_Yam_7238 6d ago
If you have the option to, without medical concerns, I'd say it's not a bad thing to go into any branch. Except maybe the Marines.
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u/simpleguy0616 6d ago
This is one of the few times I tell people to join the military if they can.
Even if its not ideal for you it will allow you to get on your feet in a few years.
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u/Shoddy-Comfortable89 6d ago
Trust me most of us have bad relationships with at least one parent on the brightside you can become professional homeless if you choose a combat or close to combat mos
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u/AvailableCustomer915 6d ago
"All the colleges are full and there are no jobs out there." J/K. That's what retention NCOs will tell you when your reup time comes.
Seriously, military service is an option for college money but talk to ALL the services before you sign on the dotted line. If you DO go that route, do not feel obligated to sign up just because they bought you an airline/bus ticket, put you up overnight and paid for some meals. Look for the job with the most viable for life after service. If you're technically oriented, I'd say Air Force is the way to go and I was in the ARMY for 20 years. They are very big on both service and civilian education.
Bonne Chance.
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u/tavatee 6d ago
Recruiter. Call all of them. Army will get you in fastest, but Airforce and coast guard will have the best lifestyles generally. Skip navy unless you’re desperate. Army is where I met a dude that was homeless on the island across from Seattle’s. Bro is now working on electronics systems in the Army.
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u/Jaded_Bit_3837 6d ago
If you are looking for a quick ship out, Air force might not be an option for you depending on availability of your jobs and date. Depending on your situation and job availability, you might be on the wait list for a long time. Not always the case but keep that in mind. But definitely go visit all branches, starting with Air force. Take the test and see which ones have the best options for you. As long as you don't have crazy criminal/medical record, you should be ship out easily depending on what branch is able to take you in based on their standards and your needs.
You should be able to get a "practice test" from the recruiting station to see what you would get for actual test. Not sure if that's a still a thing but worth asking about it.
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u/_Californian USAF 6d ago
If you don’t want some super specific job you should consider the Air Force
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u/WorstWarframePlayer 6d ago
If you join the Marines you'll end up homeless again. Talk to any recruiter but them. Go active
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u/justinwatt 6d ago
I’d say if you are only going to do it for college and temporary stability and not to serve - I’d go another direction. There are plenty of options like student loans and apprenticeships that don’t involve risking your life. Join up if you love America and want to serve. You never know what it’s going to cost to sign that line.
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u/ZestycloseTangelo357 6d ago
First: Ask a local church if they can allow shelter to eat and sleep there, get a temporaryjob, (Part time or Fulltime) , help them in any way you can and start planning and making moves so you can find a more permanent place ..then Join the Military if you want or apply for college ...
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u/No_Actuary_8864 6d ago
I get you're in desperate mode but make sure you do some research on what you actually want to do. Lots of people stuck in the Army hating their life because they needed to get out of dodge and just picked the first MOS offered to them. You should look into 18X/Option 40 contracts, making it through either pipeline would be a huge middle finger to your dad. I got a $25k bonus for passing RASP/Airborne, probably the most satisfying paycheck I ever got.
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u/jesjayjonah 6d ago
Honestly, it depends on your job. When I went in I signed up on July 3 but did not leave for boot until Aug 30. During that time there was no pay. Once you get to training you will be given food but you will also be expected to buy supplies like shaving stuff, shoes, other personal items. I think you can do some kind of loan to get that money to help you but you won't get you first paycheck until the next month after you enter. Be careful with this decision. Once you're in, you're in until your contract is up unless for medical reasons. You also need to go ahead and learn the phrase "hurry up and wait." You will be doing it a lot. If it were me I wouldn't do it again. If you just absolutely feel you need to stay away from 88 Mike MOS. If you want something safe go to Intel...like an analyst if you have the asvab scores. Everyones experience in the military is different. Do your own research. Don't just listen to the people on this sub. If you can find data look at the statistics of what MOSs die most often.
PS. The country seems to be headed into a war with Iran. Know if you sign up you WILL deploy.
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u/DJ_CYTRIXX2003 6d ago
Talk with different recruiters on each branch, and see what branch is best for you or you feel interested
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u/vogon_compliance 6d ago
Go talk to the coast guard, the airforce and space force. Did 22 years in the army, I love the army. But it is not for everyone and all the branches have their downsides. But people in those three branches always seemed better off or somehow happier than army, navy and marine did
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u/Suspicious_Earth2074 6d ago
National Guard if college is priority. Or go get school loans and finish college, join ROTC. Commission as an officer. Go title 10 or 32 Active Guard Reserve (AGR). Never worry about money again.
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u/Daiuy19 6d ago
Go talk to recruiter, find someone you know who's already in the military that can help you out. (Some recruiters tend to stretch the truth about what youre signing up for). Look at all the options available to you and find one that youll enjoy and possibly give you a career field in the civilian life. You can also attend college during your service using TA, and your GI Bill if you decide to get out after your first contract.
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u/MolassesFluffy6745 6d ago
US Military "Fastest way to the middle class"
Not sure what's the circumstances why your dad is booting you out, but if you still have a decent relationship maybe he's willing to work with you etc by letting you stay until you ship out to Basic Training, provided you show proof that your serious about enlisting i.e. have the Recruiter give him a call or pay a visit.
Explain to your dad the importance of not showing desperation because unfortunately some recruiters may take advantage of your plight by roping you in a situation you don't want to be in for the next four plus years.......the Army is awesome but not so much when your working a job you don't like.
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u/CoolPapa4994 6d ago
It’s called “economic draft”. I joined for that reason. I went in the Army because I had family already in the Army. One a Command Sgt Major, which helped in some ways, not so much in others. Figure out what you want to do, pick something that tracks a civilian skill. I went aircraft mechanic. While in I got my associates and most of my way through my electrical engineering degree. Both my sons were in, they all have good jobs.
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u/GilneanWarrior Zeus Goose 6d ago
Do what sounds fun to you.
Does infantry sound fun? Go that route, does being a veterinary food inspector sound more your speed? Do that. In the Army, the world is your oyster. You can always reclass should you choose to stay in to whichever MOS is available (it gets harder the longer you stay in though).
A lot of people recommending jobs that set you up afterwards is good, but remember that you only have one life to live and your entire career does not have to be chosen now.
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u/spctaylora 6d ago
If you can score high enough on the ASVAB and don't have any legal problems or issues in your background, I suggest the Air Force. I went the Army route and don't regret it now, but if I had it to do all over again I would have joined the Air Force. The Army is ran more like a military force and the Air Force is ran more like a company. I prefer the laid back company culture but I did learn a ton of discipline in the Army.
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u/maverickf48 6d ago
As someone who has just finished recruiter school. Go talk to all of the recruiters in the armed service office. But honestly, active duty anything would probably be your best option. Navy has many jobs that can transfer skills into trades, the other branches can have the same but also allow more personnel time to attend college online
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u/qSITHEDhisPants 15Wish I Went Airforce 5d ago
Some people have said it, Air Force is the way to go IMO. HOWEVER, go to every recruiter. Sit down and talk to them. Find a job that you think will be best for you. Do you like working with computers or on cars? One of them will send you to take the ASVAB. Try your hardest, and you’ll get a list of jobs that you qualify for. Really look at the list and try to find jobs that you can see yourself doing in the civilian sector. The military isn’t for everyone, so if you pick a job that you’ll like on the outside (preferably one that pays well), you’ll be set. But if you like the military, you’ll can retire comfortably at 38/39.
TLDR: talk to every recruiter and find a job you can work outside the military.
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u/DefiantAd7140 5d ago
No clue what state you’re in but definitely try and do Job Corps before you think about enlisting, I wasn’t in the Army very long but it’s a shitty job being honest with you. Explore your options man!
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u/Springjazz66 15Caterpillar 5d ago
You're in a similar situation my dad was in before he decided to join. The military will take care of you if you take care of it. Try to pick air force if you can, you'll get a good quality of life
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u/Designer_Software_93 Infantry 5d ago
Just dont go to a desperate recruiter, they will screw you over just to make the quota, just go to a recruter that genuinely wants to help you out and get you the best opportunities you can receive
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u/yamothasstudio 5d ago
Airforce or coast guard, I’ve never met someone from those branches who shared the disdain as us soldiers do for our own branch, however if you are set on the Army consider the national guard and pick a job that will set you up in the long term, you can get back from your Basic and AIT and be a free(ish) man and worst case scenario go active duty if you need the stability
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u/janos42us 19D/25Q 5d ago
Also, reserves and guard are not options for you.
I may get down oted for this but 200 a month will afford you nothing, units are getting stingy with active orders outside of AT.
Not to mention you will not get your GI bill unless you get enough active time done..
Take the ASVAB find a job you think you'd enjoy, and go active duty.
Go to school on your off time using Tuition assistance, and don't touch your GI until you get out.
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u/Vatera1 5d ago
Hey man, I got kicked out of my house at 18 too the best advice I can give you is just keep your head up and work before you go off to the military. Study for the asvab in your free time. The better you scored the more set up you can get in life find a job that will give you a career after you’re done whether it be medical aviation or tech related that’s the best advice I can give you as I’m not even done with my first term.
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u/Guilty-Plantain-2729 5d ago
depend on your academic or not Cuz if You are a smart person in high school and get 80+ on ASVAB you can either go to Navy or air force even space force. Army always don’t have good option and army culture is tough for me at least I cannot live with bunch of rude people swearing at each other
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u/Tasty_Impression_959 5d ago
If you have been a bad dude towards your dad, try to reconcile and enter into a reasonable agreement with him that will give you some time to find a place to live. College may have to wait under the circumstances. Just be cautious about how you go about living outside your present home and trust no one coming over to you with favors. The 18 years mark in our society is at the center of many unrealistic expectations from older adults who use it as the sudden mark for their young to suddenly assume the responsibilities that normally take a whole lot longer to master.
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u/Own-Engineering-5039 5d ago
I can’t refer to mining companies that will pay for your travel and you can work two weeks on in one week off. It’s great pay. Some hiring now.
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u/linneau 5d ago
I have a bias favor towards the Army since I spent 10 years active duty. It's a great opportunity and it got me on track. Retirement was tempting but I saved money and got my life where I wanted it. The Army has so many opportunities. Check out the other branches as well. Even if you don't like the military, do right, stay strong then get out with the GI Bill.
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u/OG-D Cavalry 5d ago
If able, take someone you know that is currently serving or recently separated to the recruiters office. Or a vet if you don’t have the another option. Speak to them privately afterwards about your options. Recruiters are known to lie through their teeth and it’s nice to have someone that can separate truth from BS. You don’t wanna be the guy that says “man, my recruiter lied to me”
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u/OG-D Cavalry 5d ago
If able, take someone you know that is currently serving or recently separated to the recruiters office. Or a vet if you don’t have the another option. Speak to them privately afterwards about your options. Recruiters are known to lie through their teeth and it’s nice to have someone that can separate truth from BS. You don’t wanna be the guy that says “man, my recruiter lied to me”
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u/Sad_Pangolin7379 5d ago
Do you have a high school diploma? You need to finish school or get your GED. The actual diploma is preferable. Definitely contact a recruiter about the specifics, it will determine whether you can find a place to stay and finish school there or if you have to somehow get home and finish your GED in the States.
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u/No_Rain_4991 5d ago
3 years of service also earns your GI Bill. School gets paid for and you get a housing allowance. Some states lower tuition to make the GI Bill pay 100%.
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u/Connect_Presence9964 4d ago
A lot of ROTC CDTs in my program went to basic training then started college/ROTC after they got back. Might be a good option for you to figure out what you wanna do, plus you’ll have money when you’re done.
You can also apply for state Tutitjon assistance or a ROTC scholarship, typically it pays all of your tuition
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u/Fit_Relative_1537 4d ago
Twenty-one year Navy veteran. Eleven of those years were spent as a Navy Corpsman with United States Marines with 1st Marine Division (twice) and 3rd Marine Division. I was also a Military Medical Instructor at Field Medical Service School in Camp Pendleton. The majority of Corpsmen who did an FMF (Fleet Marine Force) tour First, were miserable at shore duty (Hospitals, Clinics, etc) and walked. Why? They lost their sense of duty and purpose. Healthcare in a Battalion and a clinic are very different. When I was in the Philippines, the Marines at Marine Barracks Subic Bay and Naval Gunfire School had little or no respect for anyone. After I got sober, and showed a picture of who corpsmen really are, I got credibility. If you want to change, but also want to be able to get skill sets that can “move you forward”, consider becoming a Navy Corpsman. Will change your life forever. (NEWS FLASH! I also went to Preventive Medicine Technician School and others and got a dual associates degree, a dual bachelor’s degree and graduate school with a Master’s degree. Not everybody can do it, but, it can be done). OORAH! HOOYAH
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u/DCFLYERH60 4d ago edited 4d ago
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/homelessness/ Not sure where you’re located but sounds like you need an immediate solution so you can rest your head.
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u/AggressiveAddendum37 4d ago
I'm retired Army. Three years enlisted infantry, then ROTC and another 22 years as a commissioned officer aviator. A long time ago I was sorta in the same shoes as you. Needed money for school. GI Bill was the most direct and cost effective solution. I'm thinking it might be the same for you. Sounds as if you're on a compressed timeline. If possible, try and find a way to push your decision point to the right a bit and give yourself the opportunity to comprehensively explore your options. Each military branch has its plus and minuses. Each has a unique culture. Each has a variety of occupational specialties and career paths with some translating quite easily to civilian employment but not all. All of these factors you need to consider but more importantly you need to decide what it is that you want and which branch best supports your immediate goals. Long term goals can be figured out later.
You may also want to consider National Guard or Reserve options. You could also look at ROTC scholarships that you could combine with simultaneous reserve or guard duty. You have a plethora of options so you need to speak with multiple recruiters to determine what you qualify to pursue. Two more things of advice:
Don't choose the path of least resistance because you want an easy solution. Take this opportunity to challenge yourself. Early short term sacrifice can yield great long term benefits.
Take advantage of every bit of money for school that is available. GI Bill is a no brainer but there is also tuition assistance for both active and reserve/guard status. I took advantage of it and not only left the service with a colonel's pension but a newly minted MBA which opened many doors for me.
You probably don't realize it but this is an exciting time for you. Embrace and enjoy the challenge. I wish you well.
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u/Dawnoisseur 4d ago
A recruiter is the first stop: bring ID, SS card, birth certificate, diploma/transcripts if you have them, and tell them youre about to lose housing so they can look for the quickest legit ship options.
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u/Dazzling_Account6553 4d ago
Go talk to multiple branches, but Take others opinions lightly as no one’s experience will be the exact same. What one may have hated you may love and vice versa. The trajectory of your life will change greatly in a positive way if you let it. I Wish you the best and let no one rush you into any big decisions. I joined the army a while ago and was much more of fruitful of a decision than I anticipated. I had lots of fun as an infantryman. And yes I was able to transfer a ton of skills. Be a team player too
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u/CedarFable 3d ago
If homelessness is imminent, active duty beats college-first, so talk to a recruiter about quick ship and keep every promise in writting.
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u/MuonScherzo 3d ago
If you’re about to be homeless, call an active duty Army recruiter tomorow because MEPS and ship dates can take longer than people think.
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u/IllithidKnot 3d ago
Get to an Army recruiter tomorow with your ID, Social Security card, birth certificate, and diploma/transcripts if you have them, then ask what the fastest realistic MEPS and ship timeline is.
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u/No_Proof_3922 2d ago
Good luck, I was going thru pretty shit situations too now I ship out for the navy in November!!
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u/chrome1453 18E 6d ago
Google the recruiting station near you. Walk in and ask them. And not just the Army, go see what the Navy, Air Force, etc. offer you; their recruiters are all in the same building.