It sounds like the OP has his head on straight, and enjoys SERVING as can be noted by his current employment. The military has many ways to do this, and many ways to learn a skill set, or a trade, and even to go to college. Or, do the college first, go in to be an officer. At this point in your life, the possibilities are endless! I don't have as many of those options, due to age, life experiences, and having a family. Do the exciting things now, earn a really good living and SAVE MONEY like there's no tomorrow, then later do what you want, and you'll be set! If I had it all to do again, I would have been MUCH more responsible with the money I earned, saving it, and investing in something other than my beer gut, and high cholesterol! Don't let your youth be wasted, and later say that youth is WASTED on the young!