Academy graduates are commissioned as Ensigns in the Coast Guard and immediately receive monthly Basic Pay at the 0-1 pay grade according to the Military Pay Tables; in 2006, that's more than $2,400 per month. In addition, benefits include:

All this adds up to an average annual pay of nearly $50,000. There are not many jobs that offer those financial benefits immediately after college graduation, never mind the incredible leadership opportunities and rewards that await all Coast Guard officers.

And don't forget, officers receive generous pay increases for every two years served and, of course, for promotions, which normally occur every two to five years.