<p>Well, I've found out that I'm a candidate for three different scholarships that will give me a full ride in college, plus a stipend, but unfortunately will make me work for a specific company for 6-14 years, a contract that if breached will require me to pay the tuition back in full. One of them would require me to work for the NSA for at least six years, another one for the Department of Defense for four years, and another for NASA for an undisclosed period of time. </p>
<p>I'm almost certain I could get the NASA one, since I've been an employee there, and was a NASA Aerospace scholar. I feel I also have a good chance with the Department of Defense scholarship, because my sister received it with much, much lower stats than I.</p>
<p>I really need the money, but I don't want to be drawn into a career without my choosing.</p>
<p>An interesting concept. In what capacity? I'm assumimg it a science discipline based on your post.</p>
<p>Many people are very comfortable in the federal sector and see it as a good job, with respectable benefits, and fairly secure. Others might be stifled or unwilling to commit to a fairly long term time frame without the flexibility of jumping at a more lucrative opportunity.</p>
<p>To some, a 6-14 year contract period may sound like indentured servitude.</p>
<p>I would try and talk to more than a few individuals who have actually said "yes". I feel the best info on this would come directly from the horse's mouth.</p>
<p>Are you sure of those lengths of service???</p>
<p>My sister just finished having her Masters (Management Science) paid for by DOD and IIRC she is on the hook for only 3 years. Granted, she is a career person there (20 years) and intends to retire out of there (counting down the days). Now if you are talking 6 years including the time it takes to get the degree, then you are pretty much on target (3 + 3). </p>
<p>Six years after you finish the degree would seem a bit much. Going ROTC isn't that bad.</p>