To the dismay of many Otaku members I know, I’ve recently joined the United States Armed Forces. I’m now Private Second Class Lakis now in the Army National Guard. I joined in order to pay for my college when it became apparent to me that I wouldn’t be able to afford my tuition or anything. I chose Paralegal Specialist as my MOS (job, in lay men’s terms) for two reasons. One, I don’t want to be deployed to war, and two, I don’t want to kill anyone. Once I’m out of AIT school (teaching me how to be a Paralegal) I’ll be able to take several good jobs in the legal field with the knowledge given to me by the military.
But also, as soon as I joined, I quickly realized what I loved so much about the military life style growing up. The comradery, the respect given to people who have earned it, and the security of knowing you are part of something greater than yourself. After joining, I started to think more about a military career. I decided to attend college for a degree in Psychology. With this, I’ll be eligible for OCS and a position as an Officer (a high paying position I might add). I plan on becoming a psychologist within the Army, full time and active duty, and I’ll be able to use the money I get to comfortably live and pursue my other hobbies (i.e. writing, martial arts, drawing, music, etc.) while working in the military.
I think its one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. My father was and still is in the Military
(Army) and so was my Grandfather (albeit for a short period of time). I never planned on carrying on the tradition, but inadvertently, I have.

I ship off to my basic training in October, until then, I will attend my drill weekends once a month, earning money and rank all the while. I attended my first drill last weekend, and it wasn’t so bad. Boring if anything. I got my uniform, dog tags, and what not, and I did P.T. which came easily and naturally for me (running a mile in 6:30, 35 sit ups in a minute not trying, and 40-something sit ups). More than less easy, being that I’m already athletic. Hopefully things will pan out for me.

I’ll keep things updated about my military career, if anyone plans to read this.