I was wondering if it would be a good idea for someone like me to join the National Guard. I’ve graduated with an Associate of Applied Sciences in Computer Programming (debt free, and don’t plan on returning to college) and currently work full-time at a Tech company I’ve been working at since my Junior year of High School. It doesn’t pay great, but I have loyalty to them. I’m single and live on my own, but I love my family and like to spend time with them.

I would want to join for a couple reasons:

1. First is that like having new experiences and learning new things, expanding on that, I would want to gain an improved Mental and Physical Skill set from the National Guard.
2. Second reason being that additional pay would benefit me as my current job doesn’t pay great, but I feel indebted to them as to want to stay with them for atleast another couple of years. (I know that some may think “you shouldn't join for the pay”, but to a certain extent, pay is relevant for most people.)

I would also be okay with being deployed when that time would come, and while I don’t really subscribe to the idea that I am repaying my country with service, I love America, and would want to support and protect the people and communities inside of it.

Would I be a good fit for joining the National Guard as it is something I have interest in or would it be better to stick with my strictly civilian life? I know this is my decision to make, but I would like to hear other's feedback.