We are so confused. I'll just start there. Son has been speaking with different branches of service. Currently most interested in Army. We have met with recruiter and will meet with school specific NG officer this weekend. I have done a lot of research and have read many forums on here. I feel like they are just telling us what we want to hear. I really need it all laid out specifically. I am sure they can not "lie" to us but yet doesnt mean that they will tell the whole truth. Recruiter is really pushing for SMP and not starting college until spring semester to get basic and AIT out of the way first (for financial benefit). Not sure would be in his best interest socially coming in a semester late and trying to join the group. But what I have read states cannot join SMP until sophomore year. If so, then how do you pay for freshman year? They all say "100% tuition" but is that guaranteed? Or only scholarship based? which then would need to apply for. You cannot do both scholarship AND SMP correct? I've also read about campus-based scholarships through ROTC, but not awarded until after one semester (so again what happens with finances for first semester?) And then there is the GFRD scholarship which guarantees that you will do NG not active duty which is is interested in. Why would you choose GRFD vs SMP? Or vice versa. He basically wants assistance with tuition and does not mind the NG commitment during school and likes the idea of receiving pay during that time. Is there one spot I can find all of this information to help navigate? Or ONE person that can help answer all questions that does not receive a "kickback" per se or benefit of him signing up with them that will be honest?? We completely support his decision to join the military but also want to be smart about this and not let him look through rose colored glasses.