Your entire post indicates you should enlist with the military, in whatever branch appeals to you, and see what they can offer to you. Much to learn, great times all over the world, friends to last a lifetime, and seriousness of purpose. What more could you want?
Oh, and I should add money and support for your post-military career.
That's good advice. Intel or signal work in the armed services can translate into a good middle-level job in the civil sector, and then a good private sector gig afterwards.
Just don't get killed while wearing the uniform (i.e. avoid carrier landings and front-line infantry.)
My interests could take me into both public and private service, that's the thing. I think I could be happy with both... I just feel somewhat of a moral obligation to do the former, at least at first.
As for the military, it's truly difficult to sustain a family on that type of pay. I have the utmost respect for our men and women in uniform, but the truth of the matter is they get paid crap. I also feel that I could serve my country better and would get more enjoyment out of a career in intel or federal law enforcement.
Good point. If your college has a ROTC program, I would definitely look into that. If for no other reason as a back up to what you want to do.