The final step leads to the Marines

My name is Nicole A Burgos, and I am part of the Class of 2023.  I will be walking the stage at the Adrienne Arsht Center in a couple of days, and I am here to discuss my future in life. This may or may not be of use to those wondering souls who have no idea what it is they wish to do. We all have plans when we first start, but they all change over time. For instance, when I was younger, I wanted to be a marine scientist because growing up in the Caribbean, all I ever saw was water—the ocean, lakes, and rivers. And I adored it; at the time, it felt perfect. I have taken a road that not many people consider their first choice; most individuals leave entering the United States Marine Corps after high school as a plan B or never think about it in general. However, I am now a significantly different person, and some may claim they no longer recognize me. Why is a common question. For individuals who do not want to attend college, as well as those who need financial aid, joining the military is an option. The benefits are excellent, and the printed contract guarantees that you will have a job for the four years specified therein. This employment will always come first, no matter what else is going on. However, those who are thinking about it should go for it and not let other people’s fears stop them. As they must break you to build you back up, becoming a Marine is not going to be simple, nor is it designed to be. Since not everyone can be or say they are a Marine, having that title gives meaning, pride, and strength to the individual that has earned it. Knowing all the consciousness that comes with it, I selected this route for better or worse, but I did it anyway, because this is the kind of person I want to become. You have a lot of options, so stop thinking that going to college is the only route to choose, and look at your options. You are in total control.