Whichever way you choose to serve -- either full time on Active Duty, or part time in the Army Reserve -- soon you will become an American Soldier. To see which path is right for you, check out the differences between the two. Whichever way you choose to serve, the following steps towards enlisting will help make your transition into the U.S. Army easier.

You can find jobs that are available to you and apply online using the Army Career Explorer. If you choose this option, you will submit the information needed to join the Army. The Army Recruiter will contact you and verify the information you entered to determine if you have the qualifications necessary to become part of today's Army - the finest organization in the world. This will allow you to enter the application information in the calm of your home and have all your personal material available to you for reference. If you do not choose this option, the Army Recruiter will ask you the information when you contact him (step 2).

Think of an Army Recruiter as your guide to the Army and the best resource to answer questions about joining. Recruiters are ready with the know-how to help navigate your military future. Locate a Recruiter near you or Chat with an Online Recruiter.

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-choice test that helps you better understand your strengths and is one of the things that helps identify which Army jobs (Military Occupational Specialties) are best for you.

The Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) is where you'll go to join the Army. You will get a full physical, select your MOS, and be sworn in as a Soldier in the U.S. Army.