So college
is in your future but you’re not sure how to pay for it. Consider joining the military and taking
advantage of the GI Bill. So what is
the GI Bill anyway? According to www.military.com the term GI Bill refers to any Department of
Veterans Affairs education benefit earned by members of Active Duty, Selected
Reserve and National Guard Armed Forces and their families. The benefit is
designed to help service members and eligible veterans cover the costs
associated with getting an education or training. The GI Bill has several
programs and each is administrated differently -- depending on a person's
eligibility and duty status.
Use your GI
Bill to pay for all types of training including your Associates, Bachelors and
advanced degrees. Don’t forget about
vocational and technical programs. This
type of education may complement and strengthen the military training you will
be receiving while serving your country or train you for a new career all
together. Think….HVAC, EMT, auto repair
or electrician. Perhaps at the end of your
service your skills will be superior and you just need that certification or
license to work in your chosen profession. Done! Depending on the type of GI
Bill program and eligibility, you may be able to take advantage of GI License
and Certification Reimbursement Program.
In addition
to the many talents you will gain from military training, let’s think a minute
about those soft skills. For example adaptability
and flexibility in the workplace, ability to get along and work with all types
of people, problem solving and leadership skills, not to mention a strong work
ethic.
All of these qualities make future
employers down right giddy. Your
military training will set you apart from the pool of applicants and provide
you with a competitive edge to land that job!
Okay, now
going back to the last sentence of the first paragraph “The GI Bill has several
programs and each is administrated differently -- depending on a person's
eligibility and duty status.” Do your
homework! Prior research is extremely helpful in defining which military branch
and potential career opportunities best suit you. Once you have enough information set up an
appointment with a recruiter. They can
walk you through your career options, GI Bill benefits and answer any questions
you may have.
Jessica - ICAN Ankeny Center
