Hi everyone,
All college decisions are out, and I am considering between attending the Naval Academy or Boston University with the NROTC Marine Option scholarship.
I understand that either route I take, I'll end up (likely) commissioning as an officer in the Marine Corps. I am trying weigh the pros and cons of both schools, and am looking for others' inputs on what to consider before committing to either. I am currently leaning towards the Naval Academy, and I was recruited to run track at the Naval Academy but not at BU.
BU Pros:
Typical "college life" (something I prefer just a little bit over 24/7 military lifestyle for four years before commissioning)
-more freedom in lifestyle
-more lively and connected (many close friends and connections in Boston area)
Able to enjoy my life/freedom in living a little bit more before I fully commit to the Marine Corps
BU Cons:
Less "prestige" (something my parents and I care a bit about to an extent)
Won't be able to run track but it is something I am willing to give up to focus on my classes and NROTC duties.
USNA Pros:
Better connections/jobs for post-undergraduate and post-military service if I 5 and dive
-more likely to earn a job with higher pay
Higher quality and better preparation in becoming a leader in the Marine Corps through being around highly experienced staff
Ability to balance track and field, military obligations, and studying all at once
USNA Cons:
less of a typical "college life"
-less freedom in lifestyle
-less time to spend outside of school with family or friends in different cities/countries
High stress in balancing many obligations
Possibility of not receiving a Marine Corps commission, and ending up in the Navy (I am 100% committed to becoming a Marine)
All college decisions are out, and I am considering between attending the Naval Academy or Boston University with the NROTC Marine Option scholarship.
I understand that either route I take, I'll end up (likely) commissioning as an officer in the Marine Corps. I am trying weigh the pros and cons of both schools, and am looking for others' inputs on what to consider before committing to either. I am currently leaning towards the Naval Academy, and I was recruited to run track at the Naval Academy but not at BU.
BU Pros:
Typical "college life" (something I prefer just a little bit over 24/7 military lifestyle for four years before commissioning)
-more freedom in lifestyle
-more lively and connected (many close friends and connections in Boston area)
Able to enjoy my life/freedom in living a little bit more before I fully commit to the Marine Corps
BU Cons:
Less "prestige" (something my parents and I care a bit about to an extent)
Won't be able to run track but it is something I am willing to give up to focus on my classes and NROTC duties.
USNA Pros:
Better connections/jobs for post-undergraduate and post-military service if I 5 and dive
-more likely to earn a job with higher pay
Higher quality and better preparation in becoming a leader in the Marine Corps through being around highly experienced staff
Ability to balance track and field, military obligations, and studying all at once
USNA Cons:
less of a typical "college life"
-less freedom in lifestyle
-less time to spend outside of school with family or friends in different cities/countries
High stress in balancing many obligations
Possibility of not receiving a Marine Corps commission, and ending up in the Navy (I am 100% committed to becoming a Marine)