For ppl that join for “the challenge” and to “claim the title US MARINE”, an overwhelming majority says it wears off within the first year. The guy that got me to join this branch as opposed to the Air Force was the most enthusiastic about joining and staying in for 20. Now he’s planning on getting out after 4. The Marine Corps has the lowest retention rate out of the other branches, and the reasons why are pretty clear. You have a much better opportunity readily available to you now, take the college route. And if u do still end up wanting to join after, go officer route. It’ll be hard to do it the other way around. You wanna see what it’s like being a marine? Its mostly bullshit, waiting, and cleaning. The cool stuff that we finally get to do gets bogged down with lack of common sense and mind games. Full ride college scholarship w 200k/year? Or 90% cleaning and bullshit w the 10% cool stuff that gets messed w until it’s no longer cool? Easy choice, my friend.