Replying to Dear Newschoolers

I have been debating about whether or not I should make this thread for a while now, I decided its time. For all of you who know me in real life this will come as no surprise, you probably already know, but for those of you who don't know, I have decided to join the United States Marine Corps. I am going to MEPS next weekend to take my drug test/asvab/physical and should have a date for boot camp shortly after. The reason for this thread isn't to ask you 12 year olds and canadians whether or not I SHOULD do it, my decision is made. I am not some dumb american redneck who wants to join so I can kill towelheads, I like to think of myself as fairly well educated, and I have had plenty of other opportunities (many of which I have fucked up) so this isn't a last resort by any means. I have many reasons, one being getting the fuck out of upstate NY and moving out west someday, that will make it much easier, another is that it will pay for me to go back to college someday, something I regret leaving, and now that I dont have parental funding for that I cant go back, far too expensive. Its also one of the most secure jobs you can have in this day and age, and in my position with no college degree, thats somewhat comforting. Not to mention free health care, and many other benefits, and the fact that I will be part of the best fighting forces in the world.. I realize this is starting to sound like an ad you see on TV and I apologize, I didnt make this to try and persuade anyone to join, that is your own decision; I am only saying these things as why I am joining. Sure, I had to quit smoking pot and I'll have to give up many things, but thats part of the job, but what I get out of the job (not just money) will greatly surpass the sacrifice IMO.

The reason I'm making this long winded thread is because I know of a few people in the armed forces on here, and would like to hear their stories, opinions, advice, what have you. Doesn't matter if its Canadian coast guard, USMC, army, or even if you just want to give your 2 cents, idc, its whatever. What I do ask is that this thread does not turn into a political flame thread, or a US vs canada battle, there are already enough shitty threads like that, so please try to not be an ignorant fuck when you post. (This might be asking too much of NS)

[*sparknotes*] Troll is joining the USMC... thoughts and opinions?