Thinking as an adult with kids; going out and being selfless by serving people 2 years, helps one grow up a lot faster, and one ends up better able to figure out what's needed to make it in life (with one's family). This pushes one to aim for better schooling or job. on the flip side one could go to school first, with a good chance of trying to sow ones oats, end up in massive debt, very selfish, no real direction, with a better chance of putting shame on ones last name!...yeah me as a dad wants that!

I saw several young men find themselves in college. I would imagine the intent not as pure hearted as it seems. Look from the outside and you might catch a glimpse.

I bet they were losing too many young men to colleges and universities so they lowered the age before they could attend. It's tempting to not go when you start going to a higher education institute.