I am considering joining the USMC. I still also think about the Army. Any advice for a good high schooler like me on joining the Marines?

Depends what you wanna do? What’s your interests?

If you really want good advice, you should give an indication on what type of job do you want to do. Not all the branches have similar MOSs or even opportunities to branch out into a particular type of career field. Some branches do a better job at others in terms of certifications for certain technical fields that better prepare you for a civilian job. Each branch has a unique culture as well, so take the time to think about what kind of culture you want to immerse yourself with. Most career service members rarely join the military with the intent to retire, it just sort of happens because they like what they do. Others join a particular branch and find that there are issues with advancement in a particular career field because of various issues. For example, the Marine Corps is the smallest branch, and if you want a low density job you could face more challenges in career progression than you would in the same career field than the Army simply because the Army is bigger and has more slots to fill. Then again, the Marine Corps has unique jobs that you may not get offered in the Army. Figure out what you want to do first then go from there.

Go for you can't go wrong

Jordan,

Please do not fret about being issued a K-bar! The US Military will issue the equipment and training needed for you to: ‘Close with, capture and destroy the enemy’.

Your task will be to have learned, accepted, practiced, the methods/skills taught and to have the confidence in yourself and your capabilities to execute such!

Don't join the Marines unless you intend to join the infantry, you can do literally any other job in another branch with a way better life style. Remember: If you're not 03, you're navy

I've served in both the Marines and the Army. Both are outstanding organizations and both come with their pros and cons. Message me if you want to know some of the specifics on those.

But in general, regardless of what branch you choose, make sure you know what you want and ensure that it is written in your contract BEFORE signing. If it isn't written in the contract, it does not exist. Other than that you should be doing PT consistently. Don't show up to boot camp/basic not being able to pass the PT test with flying colors. Simply passing it shouldn't be good enough for you. Max it, or get as close to maxing it as you possibly can.

Two points. Make sure you consider how long you wish to serve, and what field you want to go into. If you plan to make it a career, consider positions that will allow you growth. If you plan to only serve for a few years consider what will allow you to find success in the civilian world.
Second point, USE THE DARN EDUCATION BENEFITS. These days they are looking for people to have a broad level of experiences, in broadening yourself you have a better chance at promotion and success. Military schools, earning a degree, all this are available, use them and make the education office people know your name.

It will be one of the hardest challenges you will face and one of the proudest moments when you are handed the EGA. Stay in shape, build upper body strength and study USMC history.

I have work with high school kids over the years. Many have told me they were going to become Marines, even though it scared the hell out of them. A few did become Marines, many others joined the other services.

My advice. Join the Army.