I agree with much of what has been said. I’d like to emphasize a couple things. While the SMC experience, *for the right person,* I think can better prepare *that person.* This, in my opinion, has little to do with commissioning intent ir other career goals. More simply, certain people thrive in that type of environment. I had an outstanding experience and wouldn’t trade it. It was right for me.
I do not think “getting used to the military stuff 24/7” really helps all that much. Different branches are different, but the training environment implemented at an SMC is not at all representative of life on AD. Again, different branches are different, so YMMV, but in light of that opinion, I’d advise against attending an SMC if your goal is to “get a leg up.” I think this gets to some of the negative anecdotes mentioned above in the long run.
TLDR: make sure it’s right for you and something you intrinsically want, rather than a simple means to an end.