I have college paid for and want to try and get into a school soon and work towards a career. I have always wanted to be a marine but not sure if I want to go active and then just go to college after since I already have it paid for and don’t really need a GI. If I go reserves and get to serve while I am in school, will I be able to have the option to deploy if I really want to, or pick up extra time (activate) if I want to? I’m worried I’ll want to be active after becoming a reservist, but also worried I’ll regret going active and will have preferred to go to college.

Direct questions

How often can I activate as a reservist and pick up extra time

Can I pick up only extra weekends, weeks, or months?

Can I still deploy if I volunteer and how likely will I be able to.

How difficult is it to go active if I’m unhappy with being a reservist.

Moral of the story is I can’t decide between active and reserves I have no idea what to do with my life.