How to Join the Army

"Be all that you can be" may be nearly cliché now, but the U.S. Army truly offers an opportunity for education, skill training, adventure and public service for thousands of young people.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet Access
• Computers
• Spiral Notebooks
• Career Counseling
• Computer Desks
• Academic Counselings
• Pens And Pencils
• Internet Explorer
• GED Study Guides
• Online Career Search
• U.S. Army In Action Videos

1. Use the Internet. No better resource exists to learn about Army history and opportunities.
2. Think about the Army's ultimate purpose - defending our national interests through warfare. Every soldier, including the noncombatant, is dedicated to that purpose.
3. Remember to discuss your interest in the Army with someone who has served, such as parents or older family members.
4. Listen closely to their personal experiences.
5. Realize you may be devoting four years to an assignment away from your family, friends and home.
6. Consider whether you want to request special training when joining.
7. Visit an Army recruiter.
8. Take notes.
9. Ask for literature.
10. Establish rapport with the recruiter. Recruiters have quotas, but you have a right to all the information you need to make an informed decision.
11. Make sure you clearly specify your desire to seek assignment to a particular military occupation specialty.
12. Ask what must be done to assure assignment to preferred training.
13. Ask your school counselor or the Army recruiter to schedule you for the Armed Service Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Test.
14. Remember, all military services administer physical tests and do drug screening.
15. Understand also that you will be subjected to a criminal background check.
16. Make no legal commitment until you're absolutely sure of your decision to join.

Tips & Warnings

• A successful and enjoyable Army career results when you do your best every day and treat military life as an adventure.
• The Army is large and provides a chance for rapid promotion to those who work hard.
• The Army has a two-year enlistment option. Some Reserve service is required.
• The Army also offers enlistment bonuses and funds for your college education.
• Keep in touch with your family after enlistment via the Internet.
• The ASVAB Test is available in its computerized version only at a Military Entrance Processing Station. It takes from 1 to 3 hours to complete, and results can be available immediately. You must score at least 31 out of 100 to be eligible. Higher scores provide better opportunities.
• Military services want to be a drug-free environment. Expect regular drug screening.