BY JACOB GUNNER
First semester has ended and seniors have started to decide what they want to do after high school. Most of them will be going to college, but a select few will be taking a different journey in life
“I think that they’re really brave; I don’t think it’s something I would be able to do,” Jesse Glaser says, referring to the students who will be joining the US Military.
The class of 2015 included 3 students who enlisted straight out of high school. Bailey Geers, joined the Air Force, Gabrielle Robb and Jeremy Crosley both joined the Marine Corps.
“I feel less stressed than a lot of people who went to college,” Robb says, “I’ve already begun my career and they still have a lot to finish.”
Joining the forces provides education opportunities for those who join. Robb says that she still plans to go to college. “I don’t come from a wealthy family, and this way, the Marine Corps. will pay for my education.”
According to Robb, the counselors at Mariemont could do a better job of explaining the benefits of joining
the military. Robb says, “They really harp on every student having to go to college out of high school.” She also adds, “They were very helpful once I made the decision to join the Marines.”
However, the military is not for everyone. It includes a lot of physical fitness to become a soldier. Physical exercises in boot camp include running, crunches, and flexed arm hang. “Running was the hardest part for me,” says Robb.
Although the Military can be an intimidating prospect, it hasn’t stopped the ambitions of students at Mariemont.
“I know I’ll have a good time,” says Kenny Bottom who plans on driving armored vehicles in the Army when he graduates this summer. “I feel responsible for protecting my country,” he adds.
Junior Cole Miller wants to enlist in the Navy. He says, “I feel like I have an obligation to serve our country.” He adds, “I want to serve for the people who have sacrificed before me and the people who will sacrifice after me.”
Although it may seem like college is the only option coming from Mariemont, the military is a viable option for
students looking for a different experience.