I think everyone here kind of has the same stand/view point on this. I’m a cadet at SUNY Maritime pursuing a commission and merchant mariner credentials to serve as merchant marine officer after my time in the DOD. Attending a Federal academy like West Point or Kings Point was always a dream and is still a possibility for me (applying the KP again next year), however it didn’t work out initially. I still wanted theleadership development and military life style so I chose one of the state merchant marine academies. In my opinion if I can’t get into KP and receive the education for free, SUNY Maritime gives me the opportunity to pursue a degree, commission, and license that I’ve always wanted. It’s something I would pay any amount of money for but we have to obviously be realistic... More on the money part...
My mother especially has been very supportive of my decision to study at The school but has always warned me about the debt I’ll incur. Upon graduation I will be around 80K in debt (not including interest, which with the help of my family I am paying off now while in school). Merchant Marine Officers often make 100K or more for less than a full year’s work (sometimes working as little as 6 months a year if you wanted). So I know that my return on investment will be about 10K higher than my Debt at a minimum once I leave active duty military. I’ve done the numbers, ive even gone as far as picking out my future car, apartment, etc in order to see what my budget would like. My first 5-8 years after graduation while serving in the active military will be a bit of a struggle as the pay sucks, but on the flip side room and board isn’t something to worry about. Its a lot of money/debt to pay off but the experience and unique skillset I’ll gain at SUNY Maritime is extremely valuable. Think about after the military (if you did get out)... with your Bachelors that you receive from the SMC would you land a job paying at least your total student debt amount, easily ? Would you need to go back to school and incur more debt?
In your case there are several SMCs, they all lead to the same thing, a commission. There are no special licenses or credentials you’ll gain from one that you can’t get at another (unlike SUNY Maritime). Look into the cheapest option, but don’t choose a place you’ll hate. I applied and got into Norwich but it wasn’t for me, it might be for you. Check everything out. Don’t wait on a scholarship to make a decision because what happens if it never comes (I was in this boat).
Finally do what makes you happy but maybe sacrifice a little for financial purposes. Remember, not getting a 4 year scholarship doesn’t mean you can’t get a 3 or a 2 year scholarship! Work hard and pick up a contract. Additionally you may want to look into the SMP ROTC program through your school’s state Army National Guard. You’ll get paid as a NCO, get tuition assistance, or even a scholarship.