Thought Example #4
Has this thought entered your mind?
“After weighing my options, I’m not sure getting my degree is what I want to do right now. Instead, I’m going to look into going to a trade school.”
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Background
Suzanne is a 27 year old Marine E-3 who never really found her niche in the Corps.
She didn’t like her job after joining on an open contract, and decided to get out so she can have a fresh start.
She learned about the different things the GI Bill benefit can do, and wants to make sure she doesn’t waste this valuable resource.
Suzanne’s internal thinking
Wants to maximize the effectiveness of her military benefits.
Important that her decisions after getting out are made with all the information available, and makes extensive "pros/cons."
She has long term goals of becoming her own boss and greatly values independence/autonomy, making her very comfortable setting her own goals and meeting set deadlines.
Likely outcomes
If Suzanne tries using her military education benefits at a four-year university, she’ll undoubtedly be forced to take general education classes that don’t interest her or serve her goals.
However, if she researches available institutions that specialize training in her chosen field, she can focus all her energy (and utilize her benefits on classes that enable her long-term goals).
Why this mindset is important
Suzanne doesn’t require the structure and community that can come with a traditional college experience (in fact, for her these are hindrances/distractions).
She’ll only grow frustrated spending extra time and money in classes that don’t directly contribute to her goals.
Taking ownership of the path taken after leaving the military increases her confidence, autonomy and motivation.