I really wish we had something to offer these young men and women other than "Go make bank for like four defense companies". It's always just kinda sad to me to see young people sign up for this stuff.

[–] [email protected] 5 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago)

Back in high school I wanted to join the Navy because it seemed easy as hell (tons of waivers and also scored high on ASVAB so the recruiter said I could get a cushy job as an officer and be off shift earlier lol), and also because I was incredibly lonely. I figured joining the military would give me a structured, mindless life and I can share that life with other people.

Luckily I quickly became jaded with the US because COVID happened and realized no one in power gives a shit about anyone. But I was very close. I was researching positions, training, pay, etc. Financially speaking, I would’ve been okay, and I don’t believe I would’ve turned into a killing machine because I’ve seen footage of boot camp and these drill sergeants contractually cannot due anything but yell at you, but still.

My problems haven’t been resolved at all though. Especially since I’m in computer science, and there are maybe 1 good person who wishes to help others out of 100 I meet who want work for Lockheed, Tesla, NSA, etc. It’s incredibly lonely, though I hope to join a more human sector like healthcare or early education where I can see the impact of my work and know my colleagues are decent people.