It's around this time of year that many high school seniors are committing to a college or university.

But in addition to higher education or immediate employment, there are several other options available to graduates.

Recently, U.S. Navy Mid-Shipman, Danielle Steele, spoke to some area students about one of those options.

Steele is a Beach, North Dakota native in her 4th year at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

During her Thanksgiving break, she visited schools in Minot and Drake, talking about opportunities the Navy offers.

She says students often overlook the possibility of military service, but she's experienced many enjoyable benefits.

(Danielle Steele, U.S. Navy) "I try to show them all of my good experiences, all the things that you might not experience if you don't go through a program like this, taking trips all over the country, even all over the world, all on the Navy's dime. You know, all those experiences like flying and going on ships and things you wouldn't get normally just coming from North Dakota."


Steele is the third sibling in her family to serve in the military.

Her brothers are both members of the National Guard. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list