The things you need to bring into consideration is this, what are your plans once you joined a branch, you mentioned education first, thats great, but think of this, once your in the military, college is free, not to mention you get your GI bill. Ive been in the military for awhile, and i know a number of now Captains, 1st LT's and such..all mustangs, meaning they were all prior enlisted. try looking into the programs to get ur colloge degree while serving. with todays economy, if i can get free college, id take it...