Military
Military service offers students an opportunity to discover their talents and reach their potential. There are 6 branches of the military in the U.S.: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and Space Force. Learn more about each of the branches here. Students can also learn more about the military by going to SchooLinks (accessed through Classlink), Activities, Learning Hub, and completing the "Learning Unit" about the military.
Students can choose to serve by enlisting, joining a college ROTC program, or applying to miliary academies. Some of the benefits include experience abroad, leadership development, financial security, career exploration, physical training, work experience and funds toward continued education. The military is full of exciting careers. Explore some of those careers here.
Recruiters are available in the our region to provide information about military opportunities. Most visit each high school throughout the year as well. Information about military careers is available in the Career Center in addition to the links below.
Students have access to a great short learning unit in SchooLinks that will help them better understand their military options.
Enlist
Enlisting is to voluntarily choose to sign up and join one of the military branches. Connect with recruiters who visit our high schools to learn more. Students should also plan to take the ASVAB at their high school in 11th and/or 12th grade.
College ROTC
Reserve Office Training Corps is a leadership development training program for full-time college students. Note that certain colleges offer only certain ROTC programs. On each branch wesbite, there are tools to search for colleges with their ROTC program.
Service Academies
There are 5 service academies students can apply to in order to both further their education and leadership development. This process starts in 11th grade.
ASVAB Enlistment Testing
The test required for all branches of military service is the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). The ASVAB allows students to learn about their abilities and how they fit into career exploration. This three-hour test is free to students. Each high school in Hanover County offers the ASVAB once per year to students. Students should contact their Career Counselor or NJROTC instructor to sign up. After a student has taken the ASVAB, they will have access to an online portal to access results and career preparation tools.
Training/Scholarships
All branches of the military offer training programs that lead to skilled military and civilian career opportunities. College scholarship options are also available. Recruiters can explain how the military can help pay for college.
Service Academies
The United States has 5 service academies focused on developing future military leaders. Students should start considering this option in 10th and 11th grade and speak with their school or career counselor early to ensure they understand the process. Entry is highly competitive and requires applicants to start early seeking a Congressional recommendation in late Spring of their 11th grade year and preparing many components of their application in the summer before 12th grade. Each academy requires a post graduation military service committment.
United States Military Academy
Known to many as West Point and located in New York, this is the oldest service academy. Upon graduation, cadets serve in the U.S. Army.
United States Naval Academy
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, midshipmen are prepared for service in the U.S. Navy or the Marine Corps.
United States Air Force Academy
This academy is the newest and is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Cadets are prepared for the U.S. Air Force or the U.S. Space Force.
United States Coast Guard Academy
Located in Connecticut, these cadets will become commissioned ensigns helping to secure our maritime borders.
United States Merchant Marine Academy
The smallest academy, midshipmen spend a significant time training on marine vessels. Graduates can serve active duty in any branch or join the Navy Reserves.