I joined the Marines because I always wanted to serve my country, and for a sense of adventure.

Before I enlisted I had completed my bachelors degree at a prestigious university and had backpacked through South America and Europe, and had worked in NYC so it's not like I necessarily joined for the travel aspect, but that was something that I looked forward to. I then got to live in Japan for two years and explore Guam, Thailand, and various islands in the south Pacific for several months. I also deployed to Afghanistan, and was stationed in Doha and Kuwait for several more months, as well as get stationed in southern California and go to other states for training and assignments. I met many people from all walks of life and from all the corners of the world (military and civilian) and I still keep in touch with some of them and consider some friends for life. So even though I considered myself a globe trekker before, the military definitely expanded my horizons.

As for expanding my horizons, I found that going to Afghanistan helped me become a better person. As a combat veteran I actually returned much more relaxed, nicer, and more patient than when I left. I saw humanity at its ugliest and it made me reevaluate how I treated those I loved. My responsibilities also left me with a greater sense of purpose, and I'd be hard pressed to find a challenge that I feel I can't handle. Also, the adrenaline rush gave me a high that no drugs can recreate and I'm at a loss of words to explain, and as weird as it sounds, I'm thankful for it.

I also used my time to save every dollar I could, and would also keep myself busy by learning different subjects in order to forget that I was stuck at the barracks on restriction or in some remote COP. I studied French, Italian, accounting, photography, and writing. The result was that I had enough money when I got out that I didn't have to worry about taking any job to just keep the lights on, and I was able to devote myself to internships in fields that I'm passionate about.

So while I didn't like being in the Marines, I definitely served my country, did what the recruiter said I would be doing, and had an adventure a week. It was the best mistake I ever made.