reply to post by unityemissions
The military is only one opportunity and your reasons for not taking it must be valid. Nukes are Navy only, so the Army might not be suitable. That
said, you do have many other options to either do something you like to earn a living or do something to make money so that you can do what you like
in your free time.
For example, if you want to be an artist and don't have any sort of job, you will be starving for a while. A better option may be to get an "eatin'
job" doing something that can keep you fed and housed while paying for paint and canvas that you can use nights and weekends. When you are
self-supporting as an artist, the day job can go. I know a PhD in theoretical physics that drives a cab because he wants to do what he wants to do on
his own terms. He'll happily discuss the local football team or quantum mechanics with any of his customers, but sticks to football unless asked.
He's surprised one visiting professor with a tutorial in his specialty while sitting in a traffic jam. [Never underestimate the people you are
speaking to.]
There are many opportunities for anyone who wants to take them. If you need a 9 to 5 job, accounting is an option. You can even work part tme for
small businesses while you grow your own business. Court reporters can make good money and have a flexible schedule. Skilled medical positions,
ultrasound technician, x-ray technician, pharmacy technician and other medical jobs are in demand but your hours may be less flexible and the pay
might be lower.
To figure out what you want to do, get your GED and sign up for some courses that seem interesting to you at a local community college. If you have
support from your folks, a job won't overwhelm your study time. Read the CC catalog for descriptions and prerequisites and visit their guidance
counselors. Guidance is free and you can learn a lot just by asking questions. You can do course tryouts with minimal cost and pick up a 2-yr degree
with ease. Other than the big cost reduction, a significant advantage is the difference between "some college" and "Associates Degree" on a job
application should you stop after two years. Remember to take courses that will transfer to a 4 year school in case you go for something academic and
want to go on. The CC and the College will have lists of these courses.
Try not to wait too long between the GED and more education. The longer you wait, the harder it is to go back.