The choice of re-enlistment Published Sept. 7, 2011 By Senior Airman Ashley N. Avecilla 5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- As the band, The Clash, once sang, "Should I stay or should I go", staying or separating from the U.S. Air Force is one question many Airmen have to ask themselves nearing the end of their enlistment. During a time when government officials say jobs are hard to come by and there is not much economic hope in America's immediate future, many young Americans are relying more and more on the military for economic stability, evident in the military's growing population. The Informed Decision Seminar, an informative program designed to assist Airmen in the decision of whether or not to re-enlist, is provided to point out the pros and cons of re-enlisting in the Air Force. This seminar is a required, four hour seminar all first- and second-term Airmen take within the last year of their enlistment. The seminar reminds Airmen of the reason why they joined the military and explains the benefits of staying enlisted. However, the main point of the seminar is to remind Airmen of the importance of planning ahead. The series of seminar briefs also explained benefits and programs many Airmen may not be aware of. Lois Nelson, Minot AFB education center counselor, provided an array of educational programs, such as the Reserve Officers' Training Corps and the Airmen Education Commissioning Program. Both programs designed to pay for military members' ability to go to school full-time. Nelson also mentioned states that help former military members pay for their college tuition as well. Whether Airmen decide to separate or not, the Informed Decision Seminar is a mandatory brief all Airmen can benefit from. Like Master Sgt. Steven Ekker, 5th Force Support Squadron career assistant advisor, said, "Failing to plan equals planning to fail."