Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 7/28/2009

Question
I'm nineteen years old, six months pregnant, and engaged. I graduated in '08 but that's as far as i got. I want the best for my family, and i want to be a stronger women. The navy seems so right, i'm scared if i don't do something amazing i will not be giving my daughter a chance. I love my fiance and our unborn child, do you think i would be doing something good by joining the navy?

Answer
You have to make that decision on your own. You could make a great decision or it could be bad depending on your mindset, drive, and motivation. Firstly, you can't join the Navy until after you've given birth to your daughter and had a chance to recover (your Navy recruiter can tell you when is appropriate). Secondly, is your husband-to-be willing to move with you? You won't be stationed always in the same place and likely far from where you are now. Also, can you deal with 6 months or longer away from your family while you're out to sea? If you can do this, and are motivated to serve your country then you may do well in the Navy. They can also offer you pay, training, and family healthcare and assistance which helps greatly. I would thoroughly weigh the pros and cons of joining versus your goals in life. If they are compatible then I say you should go for it.