Over the last ten years at W.F. West, an average of 5.2 percent of the graduating seniors have opted to go into the military. With over 200 jobs in a variety of fields, the Army offers training for almost any career path. "It's a good opportunity to get experience; to get paid to learn how to do what I want to do," said senior Bobby Lund, who will enter the Army after graduation. The other branches of the armed forces, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marines, and the Coast Guard offer similar benefits.

The military will also provide money for college. "[The Army] provides up to $40,000 for college after you get out," said local recruiter Sgt. Travis Patterson.

The military is not all positive, however, according to teacher and Army veteran Don Lakin. "It [basic training] forces you to listen to other people's opinions whether you want to or not," he said.

For those who wish to pursue other careers first and foremost, beware. There is still a chance of serving in this country's military if war breaks out. "I was drafted out of my first teaching job," said Lakin. The possibility of being drafted into the middle of a war is one of the major disadvantages of enlisting, according to Lund. "War would really suck," he said.

Some people think the military's discipline is not right for them. "Being that strict would drive me crazy," said senior Cary Walsh. Lakin disagrees. "For me... it was the first time in my life I was put into a situation where whatever my opinion was, no one wanted to hear it. At the time it's a terrible experience, but the end result is awesome," he said.

Senior Jason Houle said, "I've always wanted to serve my country and it helps that my country would like to help me reach my goals as well."