Put yourself in my shoes for a minute

Question

Alright, so I'm in a great University pursuing my undergrad in order to get a stint on Wallstreet. I'm a veteran who spend 4 yrs in the Army, but is thinking about going back to the military as an officer through ROTC at my school. Well, the problem is that when I got out of the Army I got VA benefits from breaking my ankle while I was in. I currently get $230 every month, and I probably will be receiving it for the rest of my life. My question is, should I give this benefit up so I can go back to the military for the sole purpose of getting in one of the top 5 MBA programs when my tour ends (as an officer the leadership training will be priceless), or should I just keep the benefits, stick it out, and try to get my MBA the hard way?

Answer 1

I spent twenty years in the Army and never regreted a day.  It was challenging and a way of life I wanted to live. I think that you have to decide what you truly want to do. Thanks for the four years that you gave!!!

Answer 2

I don't believe the VA will continue your compensation while you are active, but once you ETS again, or retire, you will have a DD214 and be able to draw compensation again.

You are already approved for compensation, they won't take that away from you, unless you go through the medical clearing process at the end of your enlistment and they determine that you are not injured anymore.

Answer 3

definately go back! the opportunities and pay in the long run will be worth it! god bless

Answer 4

I did the ROTC route and was selected for Aviation, most competitive branch (have had Flight School paid for, my instruments rating, and got my civilian pilot's certification for $150 due to my flight experience with the Army), and the new ADSO: Grad School option (which I think you are talking about). It allows me to attend any Grad School I am accepted to on the Army's paycheck. I am allowed 2 years max to complete my Master's. I owe the Army 6 years in return (no big deal because I planned on doing 20+). During those 2 years in school, I will be an Active Duty Captain (still being paid like I was on Active) but just going to class. And like you stated, the leadership training and command experience from platoon through battalion will be priceless when it's time to get a civilian job.

Best of luck in whatever you choose to do.

Answer 5

Take what you can get.  If going back into the Army will put you where you want to be in life then go.  You've already been in once, so you know what the life is like.  You just need to decide if you want to put up with army life again in order to obtain that MBA along with the leadership experience.  If you don't want to put up with army life again, stay a civilian.  The $230 per month shouldn't be a factor in a decision as serious as this.

Answer 6

That whole experience sounds like it would pay off a whole lot more down the road then just $230 a month. I think you should go for it.

Answer 7

stick it out, keep the benefits and get your MBA the old fashioned way...Earnnnn it!!    After all, all I hear on this site is that the military gives you that edge when applying for gigs,,,waz up?  You'll be that many years behind your peers who didnt mess with the military a second go round......

PS, just where is a "Great Univ?"....

Answer 8

Hello,

In my opinion I would probably go back in the military!

If your getting $230/month for a broken ankle that kewl but you could earn so much more if you pursue your life!

Hope I could be of some help!!

Answer 9

At  230 a month you would only lose 13,800 over five years.  Where as you can make that up in just a few months with the advanced degrees.  Go for it.  

Answer 10

Guy, come on. Its $230 a month. I dont have one single bill that is cheaper than $230. How much is $230 going to mean to you after you graduate and start working? I think its a puny price to pay to get so much more in return.

Answer 11

If you are getting disability pay from the VA for a medical condition, you had better hope that won't disqualify you on your physical when you attempt to join the service. The link below is to the medical standards. You better check out Chapter Two, especially the section which deals with lower extremities.