Ball State University graduate Josh Keller to enlisted in theIndiana Army National Guard three years ago because of pride in hiscountry.
But that wasn't the only reason he joined.
"In reality, I was looking for a challenge (and) a way to payfor college," Keller, who graduated with his commission last May,said.
According to the U.S. Army Recruiting Office in Muncie, Kellerwasn't alone.
Since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the office hasseen an increase in the number of recruits, but patriotism has hadlittle to do with it, Eric Kneffler, staff sergeant at the office,said.
"I think a majority of enlistments are made over economics thanover patriotism due to the fact that we offer job stability andcollege money," Kneffler said.
Economics professor Philip Coelho said Indiana's unemploymentrate of 5.6 percent is historically low and below the nationalaverage, and other job opportunities in the Midwest simply aren'tincreasing as rapidly as people would like them to.
According to the recruiting office, about 40 to 50 percent ofthe nearly 160 people recruited locally each year by the fourmilitary branches are Ball State students. While the office seesmost Ball State recruits after January, Kneffler expects about fiveto 10 more students to enlist in the Army this fall.
Kneffler said many college graduates decide to join the militarywhen they can't find a job related to their major. The militaryalso draws current students who have changed their mind aboutcompleting their college career, he said.
"The main thing is you'll be guaranteed a job, have marketableskills when your military experience is over and have a guaranteedpaycheck every month," Kneffler said.
A military career also offers free medical and dental services,up to $65,000 in student loan repayment and $35,000 to $70,000 forschool tuition, he said. Students can also participate in the ArmyReserves, where they receive part-time base training and work oneweekend each month and two weeks each summer while still earningtheir degree.
Kneffler, who enlisted in the Army 14 years ago, said the freetuition attracts many students today because of the increase in thecost of higher education.
"When I joined, it was a big thing to join the Army, but now theeconomic factor is the big thing because a lot of people can't getmoney for college," he said.
The recruiting office works in conjunction with Ball State'sDepartment of Military Science in promoting the military. Thedepartment's main focus is to develop leaders for the U.S. Army,Major James Jones said.
Keller, who is now a lieutenant, said he joined the university'sROTC program his junior year following his enlistment in theIndiana Army National Guard. This gave him confidence andleadership skills he uses in both the military and the civilianworld, he said.
"I feel that my decision to join the National Guard first,before joining ROTC was the best decision I ever made," Kellersaid. "I think it would benefit everyone to join at least some sortof military service."
Students of all majors who are interested in enlisting or inapplying their major in the military can visit www.goarmy.com tolearn about the 212 job possibilities.
"It never hurts to get information," Kneffler said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
